FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

I want to be trained on X machine but can’t make it to the training times, can I get trained?

Yes, you can! Please visit us in-person or email us to find a time that will work for you. We will try our best to accommodate requests.

Can I store my project in the MakerSpace?

Due to the limited space available, users do not have access to storage space.

I want to 3D print, but will my design be too large? What are maximum measurements for a 3D print? What are the resolutions of the printers?

Our primary 3D printers are the Bambu A1 mini and X1 Carbon. Please refer to the product pages for the detailed specs: https://bambulab.com/en/compare

How can a class use the Makerspace?

We welcome all classes to use our facilities! It is an excellent way for students to become acquainted with the resources available to them. However, we ask that classes notify us at least three weeks in advance of the time they expect students to be using the Makerspace. Please reach out via email and share your needs with our team.

Please understand that we want everyone to use the space, but we need proper notification and documentation to ensure a safe and organized workspace for everyone.

Are the 3D printers free to use?

Yes, but — there are limitations for print time and material use on our 3D printers. While we provide filament free-of-charge, we want to ensure that we have enough for all users, and that no users abuse this supply. We may also not have the exact filament color or type that you may need. If the Makerspace cannot suit your purposes, we would like to suggest sources such as Shapeways orHubs to meet your exact needs.  We also place a 12 hour limit for each print to allow all users fair access to the printers.  

I'm a current user - how do I become a superuser?

New superusers are always welcome!  Check out the requirements on the Getting Started page!

Not many hours are posted.  Is the space open?

We are fully staffed, barring unexpected events, between 10am and 6pm Monday through Friday. We are open beyond these hours by student Superusers, such as later into the evening and on weekends. Please check the calendar for our latest information at Hours & Events.

I’m not affiliated with Columbia, but I would like to arrange a tour for a group I represent. Whom should I contact?

Reach out to the lab manager, Bill, by email on our Contact Page.

I haven’t been trained on a specific tool.  Would you please make my part for me?

Unfortunately, no. The space here is intended for users to come make their projects, and provide a space where we can offer guidance as you build — not for us to make the parts for you.  

I have a project due tomorrow, and I NEED access to the space or a particular tool.  

If the tool is available and the space is open, you are welcome to use it. Otherwise, we do not open the space for specific cases.

You don’t have a particular tool I need.  What should I do?

Let us know!  We’ve bought a number of tools for users because they asked.

I am a Columbia Alum.  Do I have access to the space?

The Makerspace is open only to active Columbia University students and staff. At this time, it is not open to alumni or family members. 

I am an immediate family member of a Columbia student or staff.  May I have access to the space?

The Makerspace is open only to active Columbia University students and staff. At this time, it is not open to alumni or to family members.

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