Hello, everyone. I’m brand new to the 3D printing world, but am very excited to continue to learn about this amazing technology. I’m a 23 year-old college student at Tennessee Tech University in Cookeville, TN and I’m studying Chemical Engineering. I’m hoping to not only use my printer to produce prototypes for my own projects and for people through this website, but also provide a budget-friendly alternative for other student engineers at my university.
I first heard of 3D printing about 3 or 4 years ago, but only recently began to really read into it. The more I read, the more I knew I had to be involved as this revolution unfolded. After a fair amount of research on the different designs and functionality of the printers, I decided to purchase the Rostock MAX v2! The ability to produce relatively large prints, the fact that I get to build it and learn the in’s/out’s of the components, and the delta design are some of the main reasons I chose it. The open-source community and massive room for upgrade installation is really exciting!
But, as I said, I’m definitely a Novice (or maybe even less knowledgeable than that!) and know little about the different components within the printers and the software used to communicate with them. I’ve read dozens of articles and even more topics on this forum, as well as a couple other forums.
My printer should arrive in 1-2 weeks (I’m assuming; I ordered it last night) and I would like to be knowledgeable as possible when it arrives. Are there any write-ups that you guys recommend for someone that knows very little and wants to know everything there is to know about 3D printing? (I’m being slightly modest, I can hold a conversation about the process and have been able to educate several of my peers/relatives about them. However, I know that many of you here know FAR more than I do.) I’d love some material that covers the basics of the different components and steps within the process. I’m sure there’s a “3D Printing for Dummies” out there, huh? Haha! Also, the two major “must, right-out-of-the-box” upgrades for the MAX I’ve seen have been the power supply and vibration dampeners.
Could anyone possibly link me to some recommended power supplies or at least some specs I should look for? And for the dampeners (and other various upgrades), do you guys recommend some specific websites for stuff like that? And any other recommended upgrades for now and future investments? I don’t plan on changing too much right away; I’d like to get to know my new toy before I tinker too much.
Anyway, I just wanted to introduce myself and will hopefully become fairly well acquainted with you folks within the next few months 
**off to read my manual**
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Welcome to the 3D printing world! It’s an exciting place to be. For a beginner intro on 3D printing, lynda.com actually has a really good web series covering the basics and some of the history. If you’re into modeling, I’d look into the Autodesk 123D suite to get started. If you haven’t seen Print the Legend on Netflix, I’d highly recommend it. On the materials side, there was a very informative AMA on reddit from a group of material scientists at Virginia tech last week.
I’ve also tagged Rostock Max V2 owners, so maybe some we’ll be assist you as far as upgrades go. Welcome again!
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@drwho @Houston3D @Merge3D do you have any tips for a Rostock Max v2 newbie? 
Belt tensioner: You can use the files on the link below. Since the V2 max has the cover on top, you only need to print 2 for each leg. I just used a longer M3 Bolt and used the top cover to secure it ( minor drilling require)
Tips for printing:
Painters blue tape and Elmer’s Disappearing Purple School Glue (melt it in water)
Additional tips
http://www.appropedia.org/3D\_printer\_bed\_adhesion:MOST
Extruder:
Fan on top of the one you print during assembly:
http://www.thingiverse.com/thing:512442
Other Upgrade recommendations:
To keep your tools next to the printer
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Bed level as much as possibleto get an understanding. A benifit to building the kit is you understand how 90 percent of it works. Understanding the limitations of material is helpful as well. Larger prints are easily done in PLA. ABS is slightly trickier, not just for this printer but for everyone with this size build platform. Its a very good printer, takes time to get it right. Let me know if you need any help.
Thanks for all the tips, links, and welcoming responses! I’m positive I’ll be back with more questions. And maybe one day I’ll be helping other people that are new to the world of 3D printing! 
