Silhouette Alta® Plus 3D Printer

Silhouette America 3D Printers Silhouette Alta® Plus 3D Printer

Brand: Silhouette America

SKU:

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  • $349.99


Description

The Silhouette Alta® Plus is a 3D printer that is perfect for beginners and experts alike. This printer can create a variety of
3D models using PLA filament (1.75 mm) and is compatible with Silhouette’s standard filament and specialty filament.
Make everything from custom cookie cutters and keychains to cake toppers and jewelry pieces.
Product Details
• Printer Type: Delta style
• Fan: Built in
• Print Volume: 124 mm x 124 mm x 130 mm
• File Types: .STL, .OBJ, .studio (if applicable, .studio files may be imported into Silhouette 3D™ as one of six
different 3D extrusions)
• Filament Type: 1.75 mm nonproprietary PLA filament
• Interface: USB 2.0 high speed
• Unit Weight: 9.7 pounds
• Unit Dimensions: 9.875 inches x 9 inches x 18.75 inches
Box Contents
• Silhouette Alta® Plus 3D printer
• Power cable and USB cable
• Loose filament spool (color: white, approximately 60 grams)
• Filament spool holder
• Platform (with applied Platform Tape Sheet)
• Replacement Platform Tape Sheets (10)
• Two different sizes of hex keys (for machine adjustments)
• Nozzle cleaner tool

• Keys (to lock/unlock the case)
• Silhouette 3D™ software (download)
• 25 exclusive designs (download)
• 1-month Silhouette Design Store subscription ($25 credit value) (available after tool registration)

 

Silhouette Alta® Plus FAQs
What is the difference between the original Silhouette Alta®
and the new Silhouette Alta® Plus?
The Alta Plus has all of the same capabilities as the original Alta
model along with the following differences:
• The Alta Plus model is grey, whereas the original Alta
model is white. This helps to quickly identify the different
models from each other.
• The Alta Plus includes a built-in fan, which improves its
print quality over the original Alta.
• The Alta Plus has updated manual turn screws on the
Delta arms that hold the printer head. This allows the
machine to be calibrated by hand, making the calibration
process easier and more precise.
• The Alta Plus has an updated printer head providing an
easier method to remove and replace the heating element.


What is the benefit of using a fan while 3D printing?
When melted PLA filament is extruded from a 3D printer, it’s
better for the filament to be cooled before another layer is
printed on top of it. Using a fan while the machine extruding the
filament often results in a better 3D print with fewer gaps and
more stable layers.

How do I turn the fan on/off?
If you have a Silhouette Alta® Plus and Silhouette 3D™ version
1.2.164 or higher, the fan can be controlled from within the
Silhouette 3D™ software.
Open the software, click the 3D Print tab on the top right-hand
side, open the settings, and navigate to the “Filament and
Printer” options. Here you can check or uncheck the box that
says “Enable Fan Cooling” as well as change the minimum and
maximum fan speeds.

What is the printing speed of the Silhouette Alta® Plus?
The Alta Plus can print at a maximum speed of 80 millimeters
(mm) per second.


What is the print volume?
The Silhouette Alta® Plus can print 124 mm in diameter and
130 mm tall, which is about 5 inches around and 5 inches tall.


What is the layer height resolution?
The layer height can range from 0.05 mm to 0.5 mm.


What is the minimum layer height the Silhouette Alta® Plus
will print?
The minimum layer height is 0.05 mm.


What colors can the Silhouette Alta® Plus print?
Silhouette will offer 11 colors of standard filament (sold
separately) that can be used with the Alta Plus: red, pink, orange,
yellow, green, sky blue, blue, white, black, and brown.
In addition, there will be 8 types of specialty filament (sold
separately): gold, silver, bronze, silk white, silk pink, wood,
marble, and glow-in-the-dark.
You can also use any other brand and color of PLA (polylactic
acid) filament as long as the filament size is compatible with the
Alta Plus (1.75 mm thickness).


How much is a spool of filament?
Silhouette’s standard filament spools (500 grams) and specialty
filament spools (250 grams) will be offered at $14.99 each.


Is the filament BPA free?
PLA plastics do not contain BPA.


Is the filament eco-friendly/recyclable?
PLA is a bioplastic that is potentially recyclable, but no separate
recycling system currently exists for it. However, PLA is
biodegradable.


What are the system requirements for Silhouette 3D™?
Processor: Intel or AMD Quad core at 2.5GHz
Ram: 4GB
Hard drive: 4GB of free space
OS: Windows 10 or Mac OS 10.8 +
Graphics: Any that supports OpenGL 1.2 (Any GPU since 2010)
Network: Any network controller (Wi-Fi or Ethernet)


Where can I get designs to print?
The Silhouette 3D™ software can import .STL and .OBJ files.
You can also use many of your existing Silhouette cut files. The
Silhouette 3D™ software currently offers 6 different extrusion
options (options to turn 2D files into 3D designs), including
basic extrusion, stencils, and box options. Special 3D designs
in the form of .S3D files are also offered through the Silhouette
Design Store.


Can I download Silhouette 3D™ if I don’t have an Alta
printing machine?
Yes! The Silhouette 3D™ software is currently free and available
to anyone who wishes to download it. You can play in the
software as much as you’d like, but you will not be able to print
anything without the Silhouette Alta® or Silhouette Alta® Plus.

What file types can be used in Silhouette 3D®?
The Silhouette 3D™ software allows you to import and use .STL,
.OBJ, and .S3D files. You can also access your Silhouette Library
and automatically turn a number of 2D files into 3D objects
within the Silhouette 3D™ software.

Can I use .STUDIO files?
Yes, the Silhouette 3D™ software will take 2D lines and convert
them into 3D objects. However, not all files are going to convert
into 3D objects well. Some files are set up for regular printing or
are more optimized for cutting, so you’ll want to experiment to
find the files that work best for a 3D environment.


Can I print text with any font on my computer?
The Silhouette 3D™ software will be able to access fonts you
have installed on your computer, turn them into 3D objects, and
print them. Just as with turning 2D cut files into 3D objects,
some fonts may work well as 3D objects while other fonts may
not.

 

The Silhouette Alta® Plus 3D Printer is unlike any Silhouette machine on the market. Instead of cutting 2D materials, the Alta uses additive manufacturing to print a 3D design from the bottom up, allowing a simple idea to grow into a custom 3D object. Using a technique that recursively prints layer upon layer, the Alta can use non-proprietary PLA filament to build your designs into reality.
Silhouette Alta® Plus Specification
Printer Type
Delta style
Print Volume
124 mm x 124 mm x 130 mm
Resolution
0.1mm
File Types
.STL, .OBJ, and allows applicable .studio files to be extruded and turned into 3D objects
Filament Type
1.75 mm non-proprietary PLA filament
Interface
USB 2.0 high speed
Unit Dimensions
9.875 in x 9 in x 18.75 in
Unit Weight
9.7 lbs
Shipping Dimensions
13 in x 13 in x 24 in
Shipping Weight
19.65 lbs
Warranty
One year parts and labor
Included Standard Accessories
Power Cable
100–240 volts AC adapter (power cables are available for the United States, Canada, Europe, South Africa, Australia, and other regions)
USB Cable
Hight speed 2.0
Cooling Fan
Built-in
Filament
White (~60g)
Tools
Print removal tool, nozzle tip cleaner, two hex keys, and two keys to lock/unlock the case
Silhouette 3D™ Software
Windows 7 and newer, MacOS X 10.8 and higher
Printable Designs
25 free
Build Plate Tape
10 Sheets

Shipping

Free shipping on all orders over $1500! 

Orders ship within 48 hours. Orders placed after this time, on the weekend, and during holidays will process next available business day. Free shipping qualified orders will ship via UPS, USPS or Freight, transit times with USPS and UPS are shown below and can vary from 1-7 business days. Please check the product page for any special shipping conditions and note including drop-shipping and delayed processing for special orders.

 UPS Shipping Time in Transit  USPS Time in Transit
UPS Transit Map
Silhouette Cameo Support

Warranty


Silhouette machines have a one-year limited warranty. This does not extend to consumables, such as the blade and cutting mat. 


US & Canada

If purchased in the US, Canada, or other US territories (Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands), the warranty is covered by Silhouette America directly.

To obtain warranty coverage for hardware issues, contact support@silhouetteamerica.com.


All Other Countries

If purchased outside of the above-listed areas, you will need to contact the store or website where your machine was purchased for warranty coverage information.


About Cutting Issues

A "cutting issue" can mean a variety of things. Thankfully, most cutting issues only require a few easy steps to correct and get your machine working properly! Some of the more common cutting concerns are as follows:

  • Cutting too deeply/cutting through the mat
  • Not cutting deeply enough/only scoring the paper
  • Not cutting at all (moving as if cutting but no marks on the paper)
  • Tearing the paper during cutting process
  • Blade getting stuck/jammed and making a "woodpecker" noise
  • Material sliding/shifting during the cutting process
  • Cutting lines not in the right area/not cutting straight
  • Cutting additional lines that are not in the file
  • Machine not moving to cut, possibly says "Cut Complete" without movement
    (For this concern, please click here)
  • Print & Cut project not reading registration/not cutting correctly
    (For this concern, please click here)

If you're experiencing any of the above issues, please walk through and follow each section below carefully. There are several components and steps involved with cutting. Each should be checked to ensure proper function.


NOTE: The steps below are intended for Silhouette Studio and the following cutting machines:

  • Silhouette Cameo® 4
  • Silhouette Cameo® 3
  • Silhouette Portrait® 3
  • Silhouette Portrait® 2
  • Silhouette Curio™

Older models follow similar steps, but some instruction may not match your model exactly.

PUBLIC STEP 1: Check your blade

One of the most important factors in a successful cut is the blade.

Please perform the following steps to properly set up the blade for use: 

⚠ CAUTION: The blade is very sharp. Please use caution when inspecting and handling the blade.


AutoBlade

1. Clean (if used)

  1. Use the included Blade Adjustment Tool to unscrew the white cap of the blade, exposing the blade tip
  2. Blow on the blade tip, or use a dry paintbrush to clear away any dust or material debris
  3. If any adhesive material is stuck in the blade tip, you can remove it carefully with a pair of tweezers

2. Inspect

  1. While the blade is exposed, ensure the blade tip is intact (no chips or damage) and the blade has a sharp, clean angle
  2. When finished inspecting, screw the white cap back onto the blade
  3. Ensure that the cap is secure by using the Blade Adjust Tool to fasten the cap back on. Be careful not to overtighten the cap.

3. Load

  1. Press down on the blade with one hand until it is fully seated in the holder
  2. While holding the blade down, press in on the blade holder lock. There should be no gap between the blade and the holder.

You can view a tutorial video of this process here.

Blade (Ratchet or Manual)

1. Clean (if used)

  1. Unscrew the white cap on the top of the blade using your fingertips. This will expose the blade tip.
  2. Blow on the blade tip, or use a dry paintbrush to clear away any dust or debris.
  3. If any adhesive material is stuck, you can remove it carefully with a pair of tweezers.

2. Inspect

  1. While the blade is exposed, ensure the blade tip is intact (no chips or damage) and the blade has a sharp, clean angle.

3. Load

  1. Ensure the black, plastic "fin" piece is facing forward (towards you, away from the machine) as it is being loaded into the machine and the white tip is pointing down
  2. Press down on the blade with one hand until it is fully seated in the holder
  3. While holding the blade down, press in on the blade holder lock. There should be no gap between the blade and the holder.

Premium Blade or Deep Cut Blade or Kraft Blade

1. Clean (if used)

  1. The cap of these blades does not need to be removed
  2. Blow on the blade tip, or use a dry paintbrush to clear away any dust or debris.

2. Inspect

  1. Ensure the blade tip is intact (no chips or damage) and the blade has a sharp, clean angle.

3. Load

  1. Ensure the blade is loaded fully into the holder with the rim seated flush against the holder. There should be no gap between the blade and the holder.

Rotary Blade (for Cameo 4 only)

1. Clean (if used)

  1. The cap of this blades does not need to be removed
  2. Blow on the blade tip, or use a dry paintbrush to clear away any dust or debris.

2. Inspect

  1. Ensure the blade edge is intact (no chips or damage)
  2. Place a peice of paper or thin fabric onto a safe surface, such as a cutting board or crafting mat, and manually press down and roll the blade accross the surface. It should cut through the material cleanly.

3. Load

  1. Ensure the blade is loaded fully into the second chamber of the Cameo 4 machine with the rim seated flush against the holder. There should be no gap between the blade and the holder.

 


Click here for further information on proper product maintenance.


Once all steps above have been completed, please continue to the next section.

STEP 2: Check your mat/material

The next important factor in a successful cut is to ensure your mat or material are being loaded properly into the machine.

Please review the following steps to properly set up and load your mat or material:


1. Inspect

  1. Ensure a Silhouette brand cutting mat is in use. Third-party cutting mat alternatives are not recommended for use with the Silhouette machine as they can damage to the machine, either immediately or over time.
  2. Ensure the mat has a strong enough level of adhesive to hold the target material in place properly during the cutting process.
  3. The presence of score marks on the mat’s surface is normal. However, any area of the cutting mat that is completely cut through cannot be used successfully. Replace your cutting mat as needed.

2. Load

Silhouette Cameo

If loading WITH a Cutting Mat

  1. Ensure your roller is adjusted to the proper position. For the cutting mat, the white roller piece on the right side of the roller bar should be secure in the furthest groove to the right. This is the cutting mat position. 
       -  A video showing how to adjust the roller on Cameo 4 series models can be found here
       -  A video showing how to adjust the roller on the Cameo 3 model can be found here
  2. After this is in position, please line up the left side of the mat with the loading line on the left side of the machine base.
  3. While pressing the mat against the roller bar, press Load on the machine.
  4. Once loaded, you can give the mat a gentle tug and it should not slip out of place.

If loading the Material WITHOUT a Cutting Mat

  1. Ensure your roller is adjusted to the proper position based on the width of your material. The white roller piece on the right side of the roller bar should be secure in the 9" or 12" groove mark, depending on the material width. The goal is to have the roller grip the edge of the material fully. 
         - A video on adjusting this roller can be found here
  2. After this is in position, line up the left side of the material with the loading line on the left side of the machine base.
  3. While pressing the material against the roller bar, press Load on the machine.
  4. Once loaded, you can give the material a gentle tug and it should not slip out of place.

    A video of this process can be found here

Silhouette Portrait

If loading WITH a Cutting Mat

  1. Line up the left side of the mat with the left most loading line on the machine base.
  2. While pressing the mat against the roller bar, press the UP arrow on the machine.
  3. Once loaded, you can give the mat a gentle tug and it should not slip out of place.

    A video of this process can be found here

If loading the Material WITHOUT a Cutting Mat

  1. Line up the left side of the material with the left most loading line on the machine base.
  2. While pressing the material edge against the roller bar, press the UP arrow on the machine.
  3. Once loaded, you can give the material a gentle tug and it should not slip out of place. 

    A video of this process can be found here

Click here for detailed information on proper machine loading practices.


Once all steps above have been completed, please continue to the next section.

STEP 3: Check your cut settings

One of the most common causes of cutting issues is a problem with the cut settings.

“Cut settings” here refers to:

  • Blade Number
  • Force
  • Speed

These settings are found in the SEND panel of the Silhouette Studio software program. There are other settings that can be adjusted which may also affect the cut result. Additional information on each of these settings can be found here.

Many material types are listed in the software to provide a starting place for that material type. However, these recommended settings may require adjustment to perform a successful cut. Different brands, textures, or other features present in the material can require setting adjustments. Depending on the design’s complexity or sizing, there may likewise be adjustments required for optimal cutting results.


Check the Cut Settings

  1. Perform a test cut using the default settings listed in the software for the material type in use.
  2. If the test cut is not successful, adjust the settings to achieve a heavier or lighter cutting result, as needed.
  • If you find your mat or material is getting caught during the cutting process, making a loud, stuttering noise, or cutting too deeply, you may need to decrease the cut settings.
  •  
  • If your material is scoring or not cutting the material at all, you may need to increase the cut settings.

As needed, adjust the Force setting slightly and try another Test Cut. If there is no change, you can adjust your blade number and try again.

When performing testing, we recommend the Test Cut feature to avoid wasting material for testing. A tutorial video for this feature can be found below:


If you have tried multiple settings and see no change in the cut quality, please continue to the next section.

PUBLIC STEP 4: Confirm your setup

If you have confirmed all of the above steps and are still experiencing concerns, please compare your machine setup and loading method to the appropriate images below.

Discrepancies between the setup shown in these images and your setup may point to an issue that is causing the cutting concern.


Blade Loaded (AutoBlade example shown)

Cutting Mat Loaded (Cameo 3 example shown):

No Mat with Material loaded directly (Cameo example shown):

Cutting Mat Loaded (Portrait example shown):

No Mat with Material loaded directly (Portrait example shown):

 


If your machine matches the expected setup shown above, please continue to the next section.

STEP 5: Get additional support

If your machine setup matches the images above and you are still experiencing issues, please contact support@silhouetteamerica.com with the following information:


    Email subject: Cutting Issue

1. Machine Model: ______________
* For help identifying your model, please visit www.silhouetteamerica.com/setup

2. Blade/Tool Type: ______________
* For help identifying the blade/tool in use, please visit https://www.silhouetteamerica.com/shop/blades-and-mats

3. Silhouette brand Cutting Mat in use? (Yes/No): ______________

4. Material in use (brand and type): ______________

5. Cut Settings in use

Blade number: ______________
Speed number: ______________
Force number: ______________
Number of Platforms (Curio model only): ______________

* These settings are located in the SEND panel of your Silhouette Studio software

6. Software Version: ______________
* Click Help (PC) or Silhouette Studio (Mac), then click "About Silhouette Studio".

7. Firmware Version: ______________
* Go to the SEND panel in Silhouette Studio. The firmware number should be listed as INT X.XX and EXT X.XX, for example 1.60.

8. Provide a description of the issue
NOTE: The more detail that is included, the easier it will be to provide the proper support.

9. Provide images showing your setup
NOTE: The images should be similar to the images in the section above


Including all above requested information will help to expediate a response and allow our support team to provide the best solution.

STEP 6 (RECOMMENDED): Send a video

To further expediate assistance, you may record a video of your process and show the issue occurring. Your video should include shots of the following steps:

  1. Loading the Blade into the machine
  2. Loading the Mat or Material into the machine
  3. Sending the job via the software. Please show the design area with your file displayed and the SEND panel showing your selected cut settings before sending.
  4. (If using an AutoBlade) Close-up of the blade adjusting process
  5. Front view of the full machine during the cutting process
  6. Continue filming until the issue occurs

For the best angles to capture your video, please see the photos in the "Setup Confirmation" section above as examples.

Once uploaded, you can email the link and all requested information to support@silhouetteamerica.com