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What is OctoPrint?
Octoprint is open-source software that allows you to control your printer via a web interface. I installed the software on my Raspberry Pi 3b+ and I am very happy with it so far. Alternatively, you can install OctoPrint on a computer or in a VMWare. The Raspberry Pi is connected to the 3D printer via Micro USB. OctoPrint is compatible with many 3D printers. Both WIFI and Ethernet are possible with the Raspberry Pi.

Read my full article about OctoPrint HERE.

Installing plugins is super easy! In the Octoprint web interface, you can install any of the plugins listed below with a few clicks. The link for each plugin is in the header if you are interested in one.

CameraSettings
If you are using OctoPrint, you most likely have a camera connected to it. I, for example, have a night vision camera connected to my Raspberry pi that often produces overexposed images. With the CameraSettings plugin, you can adjust sharpness, contrast, brightness, and saturation.

You have numerous other settings that you can change without editing any config files on the Raspberry Pi’s SD card. This way you can significantly improve the image of an old USB camera. A great plugin if you are not using a high-end camera.

The Spaghetti Detective
Besides the cool name, this plugin is especially popular because it automatically detects when the printer is not printing properly. The plugin has a so-called AI-failure detection. It has happened to me many times when the printer was not properly leveled or the bed was not cleaned properly, that the print slipped and was unusable.

The plugin is in my opinion in any case a must-have, because you can not always check your print. The free version of this plugin can use the AI Failure feature for a maximum of 10 hours per month. Alternatively, you can invest $4 per month and use the feature for 50 hours. You can also install the software on your own server for free since it’s open-source.

Setting this plugin up was super easy. During the installation there was a step-by-step guide, so you could not do anything wrong. Keep in mind, that you need an Account on their Website for this plugin.

OctoPrint Dashboard
This plugin allows you to create an additional tab in the OctoPrint user interface where you can view important data about your printer. You can see most of the information without this plugin, but not at a glance.

It really looks well visually organized and super clean. For me, the plugin is a great addition to my OctoPrint installation. Sure this plugin is just nice to have but still pretty cool.

OctoText
If you’re not using an app that sends you push notifications about the status of your printer, this plugin is great! The OctoText plugin automatically sends you status updates via email, for example when the print has reached 50% or when it is finished. Also, the plugin informs you when the print failed or was paused. In the mail that is automatically sent to you, you can even view a photo of the printing process, provided you have a camera.

Of course, there are thousands of more plugins out there, but I’ve listed my top 4 plugins above. If you have any other plugins that are missing from this list, feel free to send me a tweet. @speichermann