Hi @Nigel
Nice to see other IT oldies out there. I was a total newbie to all of this. I read a lot a just jumped in. Learning is a bit of trial and error, but it you are careful, less error. It is a bit of a black art though. Make sure you look at some of the references in Snaplinks.
there are many , many great links online to gain knowledge. There are also books such as one that ordered and read. 3D Education Material
I started with simple 3D printing using the SnapmakerJS application, using Fast print…note all the parameters. print the same object again with Normal Quality, again note the parameter changes and the print with High Quality. You will soon see the use of varying parameters have a major impact. I spent a few months printing then started on the laser. The last year has been bouncing between these two modules; I have not tackled the CNC as yet.
As I learned more I wanted more, so I downloaded and used the Ultimaker CURA software which provides you with many more print options… then I want more and bought the Simplify3D application, which has numerous features. Simplify3D
It all depends on how carried away you get.
Keep having fun
Doug
I am sure you will have, I am
Doug