Nerdi-Dads

Introduction to Nerdi-Dads

Thu, 01 Jan 2099 01:00:00 GMT

Channel Intro

MJ and Dave have a weekly discussion about latest technology in data and AI for the past 12 months. With the launch of ChatGPT 2022 and so many other amazing technologies following that, we have a strong feeling that the next generation may live in a different world than the one that we are in. As we both have two young children, the conversations natrually lean towards how can we better prepare them for the future.

In this video, we talked about the huge shift in responsibility for a lot of working parents after Covid. As we get to spend a lot more time with our family, the expectation and reality both changed. How can we take advantage of this change to create positive impacts on our kids when it comes to technology?

Kids

MJ has two boys Andriel (2017) and Archie (2021), Dave has two boys Martin (2014) and Harry (2018). Andriel is also in a spectrum with unique learning needs.

Topics

Some of the topics that Dave and MJ plan to discuss on their channel include 3D printing, gaming, apps, screen time, school apps, and special learning needs. David and MJ believe that there is a lot of value in talking about these topics with other parents. They hope that their channel will be a community where parents can share their experiences and learn from each other.

Conclusion

David and MJ are committed to making this channel a success. They plan to keep the channel updated on a weekly or fortnightly basis. They also encourage viewers to leave comments and suggestions. We believe that this channel is for parents like them and that it can be a valuable resource for parents who are struggling to raise their kids in the modern world.

Gen AI For Personalised Education

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 01:00:00 GMT

GenAI for Personalised Education

Dave and MJ explore how parents can leverage AI technology to engage children's interests and enhance learning experiences. As self-proclaimed tech-savvy fathers, they share practical examples of creating personalized, character-based learning interactions for their children.

The Inspiration: Brave New Words

David begins by referencing Sal Khan's book "Break New Words," which explores how AI can transform education for future generations. Khan, founder of Khan Academy, was among the first educators approached by OpenAI to explore AI applications in learning. One concept that caught David's attention was role-playing with AI personas like Isaac Newton or Albert Einstein to make learning physics more engaging.

Inspired by this approach, David decided to experiment with Microsoft's Copilot Studio to create something similar for his son Martin, who is interested in the Japanese comic series One Piece and its Roblox game adaptation, Blox Fruit.

David demonstrates how he created a Copilot persona based on Luffy, the main character from One Piece. The setup process was surprisingly simple:

He provided basic instructions like "You are Luffy from One Piece" and "You talk to kids about your adventures in One Piece".
He specified that the AI should adopt Luffy's casual speaking style rather than sounding like a professor.
He added knowledge from the One Piece fandom website.
He integrated the character into Microsoft Teams with just a few clicks.

David shows an example conversation where his son asks Luffy questions about his strongest opponents, to which the AI responds in character with relevant knowledge about the series.

Personalized Coaching Through AI

Taking the concept further, David created another character based on Gregg Popovich, the legendary San Antonio Spurs basketball coach, to help with his son's basketball training. David shares how he asks the AI coach questions like "What do you do if a player is not self-motivated enough to meet training goals?" and receives thoughtful, practical advice.

David explains how he can refine the AI by providing more context, such as specifying that his son is "struggling to switch from point guard to small forward," and by adjusting the communication style to be more conversational rather than presenting information in bullet points.

Future Possibilities and Optimism

MJ expresses his excitement about these applications but notes his frustration that this technology isn't yet available on devices like Google Home or Alexa. He envisions a future where these AI characters could be voice-activated without needing to open an app.

The conversation shifts to a broader perspective on technology, with both hosts expressing optimism about the future. MJ mentions Bill Gates' book "Source Code," which takes an optimistic view of technology's role in advancing human civilization. David agrees, advocating for "practical optimism" rather than blind optimism, especially when facing significant technological changes.

Conclusion

Through their exploration of AI for personalized learning, David and MJ demonstrate how parents can harness emerging technologies to connect with their children's interests while creating educational opportunities in a fun, engaging way.

Book Reference

How to Know A Person by David Brooks.

Moral Education for Kids

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 01:00:00 GMT

Moral Education for Kids

Today we're tackling a big, ambiguous topic: raising kids with strong moral skills: ethics, empathy, resilience, and a sense of community. As dads of two boys each, it's a constant conversation in our households. We're not claiming to be experts, just dads sharing our experiences and hoping to spark a conversation among fellow nerdy parents.

Navigating Cultural Landscapes: The Immigrant Parent's Perspective

Australia is a great multi-culture society where people from different culture backgrounds are welcomed and treated with respect. One challenges we face, as immigrants to Australia, is navigating cultural differences in raising our children. We both came from different backgrounds, and now we're raising our kids in a new cultural landscape. It's more than just learning local customs; it's about deciding which traditions to keep, which to adapt, and how to instill our values. David highlighted the difficulty of building a support system in a new country, especially when kids' friends aren't local. We're constantly asking, "What's best for our kids?" It requires significant thought, especially since we can't simply replicate our own upbringings.

The Shifting Sands of Moral Development: From Church to...What?

We've observed a change in how society approaches moral development. Traditional community pillars, like church, aren't as central for younger generations. While schools teach respect and inclusivity, there's a gap in deeper moral guidance. Religious texts, once a common framework for moral decision-making, are less prevalent in our increasingly secular world. This leaves parents with the challenging responsibility of filling that void.

Core Principles: Community, Helping Others, and the Golden Rule

A core principle we emphasize is the importance of community and helping others. We are social creatures, and true happiness often stems from connecting with loved ones and contributing to the greater good. David shared an anecdote about his son and new classmates, illustrating how he teaches the privilege of helping others. We also strongly believe in the "golden rule": treat others as you wish to be treated. However, teaching these abstract concepts isn't easy. Unlike concrete subjects, moral development isn't tangible or easily measured.

Building Resilience: Bouncing Back in a Changing World

Resilience is paramount in today's rapidly changing world. We want our kids to bounce back from setbacks, learn from failures, and persevere. We encourage them to try again after a stumble, while still providing guidance. It's a delicate balance. Resilience isn't learned overnight; it's built through experience and facing challenges. Traditional avenues for fostering resilience, like scouting, aren't as popular, placing more responsibility on parents.

Structured Learning: Learning How to Learn

Another key principle is structured learning, or learning how to learn. We want our kids to understand the "why" behind their education, not just the "what." We aim to connect learning to real-world applications and foster lifelong learning. This approach is crucial for navigating the evolving job market and adapting to technologies like AI. As AI advances, the ability to learn and adapt becomes invaluable.

Conclusion: A Journey of Learning and Growth

Raising kids with a strong moral compass is a complex, ongoing journey. We're learning alongside our children, and our perspectives evolve. But our core desire remains: to give our children a good, safe, and fulfilling life. We hope this conversation resonates with you, and we encourage you to share your thoughts and experiences. Let's build a supportive community for all nerdy dads!

Book Reference

How to Know A Person by David Brooks.

U16 Ban on Social Media - Balanced View

Sat, 30 Nov 2024 01:00:00 GMT

U16 Ban on Social Media - Balanced View

The Australian government is set to introduce a groundbreaking bill that will ban children under 16 from using social media platforms. This legislation, expected to take effect next year, aims to protect young people from the potential harms of social media, such as cyberbullying and mental health issues. The bill will require social media companies to implement robust age verification methods, including biometric analysis and document verification, to ensure compliance. While the move has sparked a debate about privacy and the practicality of enforcement, it reflects a growing concern about the impact of social media on adolescents' well-being.

Purpose of the Bill

The bill banning social media for children under 16 in Australia is driven by several key reasons:

Protection from Harm: Social media exposes children to risks such as cyberbullying, harmful content, and online predators. The bill aims to reduce these risks by limiting access1.
Mental Health Concerns: Research indicates that excessive social media use can lead to mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. The bill seeks to protect younger adolescents during a critical developmental period2.
Developmental Impact: Studies suggest that excessive social media use can interfere with healthy brain development, sleep, and academic performance. By setting the age limit at 16, the bill aims to support healthier development1.
Parental Control: The bill empowers parents to have more control over their children's online activities, which can enhance safety and reduce exposure to inappropriate content1.
Public Support: A significant majority of Australians support the ban, reflecting widespread concern about the impact of social media on young people3.

These reasons highlight the bill's focus on protecting young people from the potential harms of social media while supporting their mental and emotional well-being.

Scope of the Bill

Impacted Platforms

The social media ban for children under 16 in Australia will apply to several major platforms, including:

TikTok
Facebook
Instagram
Snapchat
Reddit
X (formerly Twitter)

These platforms will be required to implement age verification measures to ensure compliance with the new law4 5 6. Platforms such as YouTube and Roblox are also likely to be affected7. Additionally, other platforms that facilitate online social interaction, such as Reddit and Discord, may fall under the ban7.

Definition of Social Media

Social media refers to websites and applications that enable users to create and share content or to participate in social networking. This includes platforms where users can share information, ideas, personal messages, and other content such as videos8 9. For example, Merriam-Webster defines social media as "forms of electronic communication (such as websites for social networking and microblogging) through which users create online communities to share information, ideas, personal messages, and other content (such as videos)"9.

Why 16?

The age of 16 is significant for several reasons, often marking a transition from childhood to more adult responsibilities and privileges. Here are some key aspects. <p align="center"> <img src="/images/u16_ban1.png" alt="U16 on social media"> </p>

Brain Development

Survey Development for Adolescents Aged 11–16 Years: A Developmental Science Based Guide - This paper provides a guide for developing surveys tailored to the cognitive and developmental stages of adolescents10.
Cognitive and Brain Development in Adolescence - This article reviews changes in neural architecture during puberty and adolescence, focusing on executive functions and social cognition11.
Neurocognitive Development During Adolescence - This chapter discusses brain maturation and its relationship with cognitive control and socioemotional processing during adolescence12.
Leveraging the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study - This special issue showcases empirical reports on adolescent brain development from a diverse array of early-stage investigators13.
What Neuroscience Tells Us About the Teenage Brain - This article explores how updated methodologies and diverse samples are used to study adolescent brain development14.

Legal Milestones

Driving: In many countries, including the United States and Australia, 16 is the minimum age to obtain a driver's license15.
Consent: In some places, 16 is the age of consent for sexual activity16.
Education: In the UK, you can leave secondary school at 16, although further education or training is required until 1817.

Cultural Significance

"Sweet Sixteen": In many cultures, turning 16 is celebrated as a significant birthday, symbolizing a step closer to adulthood18.

These milestones collectively make 16 a pivotal age, bridging the gap between childhood and adulthood.

Counter Arguments

Here are some key counterarguments against the bill banning social media for children under 16 in Australia:

Privacy Concerns:

Data Collection: Critics argue that the age verification methods required to enforce the ban could lead to increased data collection and potential misuse of personal information19.
Facial Recognition Issues: The use of facial recognition technology for age verification has been criticized for its potential biases and inaccuracies, particularly for people with darker skin tones19.

Isolation and Exclusion:

Loss of Support Networks: Social media can be a crucial platform for children, especially those with special needs or those who are part of marginalized communities, to find support and connect with peers6.
Increased Isolation: By restricting access, the bill might isolate children from their social circles and support networks, potentially exacerbating feelings of loneliness and exclusion6.

Implementation Challenges:

Enforcement Feasibility: There are concerns about the practicality of enforcing the ban and whether social media companies can effectively verify users' ages19.
Workarounds: Children might find ways to bypass the restrictions, such as using fake accounts or accessing platforms through other means6.

Impact on Digital Literacy:

Reduced Digital Skills: Limiting access to social media could hinder the development of digital literacy skills, which are increasingly important in the modern world6.
Educational Opportunities: Social media can provide educational content and opportunities for learning that children might miss out on due to the ban6.

Economic and Social Impact:

Economic Burden: The cost of implementing and enforcing the ban could be significant for both the government and social media companies19.
Social Interaction: Social media is a major platform for social interaction among teens. Restricting access could impact their ability to engage in social activities and stay informed about current events6.

Bill Implementation Steps

Implementing the bill banning social media for children under 16 in Australia involves several key aspects:

Age Verification Methods:

Biometric Analysis: Using facial recognition technology to estimate a user's age from a video selfie7.
Document Verification: Requiring users to upload identification documents to verify their age7.
Age Inference: Cross-referencing email addresses with other accounts to infer age7.

Regulatory Oversight:

eSafety Commissioner: The eSafety Commissioner will oversee the implementation and enforcement of the age verification processes. They will issue regulatory guidance on what constitutes "reasonable steps" for social media platforms to verify users' ages7.

Technical Solutions:

Platform Adjustments: Social media platforms will need to integrate age verification systems and ensure compliance with the new regulations7.
Exemption Framework: Platforms that are deemed low-risk by the eSafety Commissioner may be exempt from some requirements7.

Privacy Protections:

Data Security: Ensuring that any personal data collected during the age verification process is securely stored and protected from misuse7.
Third-Party Verification: Potential use of third-party companies to handle age verification, minimizing direct data sharing with social media platforms7.

Public Awareness and Education:

Informing Users: Educating parents and children about the new regulations and the importance of online safety7.
Support Systems: Providing resources and support for families to navigate the changes and ensure compliance7.

Enforcement and Penalties:

Compliance Monitoring: Regular checks to ensure social media platforms are adhering to the regulations7.
Fines and Penalties: Imposing fines on platforms that fail to comply with the age verification requirements7.

These aspects highlight the comprehensive approach required to implement the bill effectively, balancing the need for protection with privacy and practical considerations.

Conclusion

This bill is unlikely to be the end of the discussion, if anything the impact of the bill should be carefully analysed to understand the various components of the bill and how it impacts on this generation. This way even if the bill is not delivering the desired result, the Australian government and the governments around the world can learn some valuable lessons from this.

Long Term Views

Here are two long terms views on why the bill will and will not work.

View 1 - Why will it work?

In the long term, the social media ban for children under 16 could yield significant benefits that, while not immediately visible, have profound impacts on the well-being of young people. By reducing exposure to harmful content, cyberbullying, and the pressures of social media, the ban can contribute to a healthier developmental environment for adolescents.

Preventing mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem can lead to better academic performance, stronger interpersonal relationships, and overall improved quality of life. These positive outcomes, though not always headline-grabbing, are crucial for the long-term mental and emotional health of young people.

Moreover, the ban encourages more offline interactions and activities, fostering real-world social skills and physical health. It also provides an opportunity for parents to engage more actively in their children's online experiences, promoting safer and more responsible internet use.

While the immediate inconvenience of access restrictions is real, the potential for creating a safer, healthier environment for young people justifies the measure. Over time, as the benefits of reduced exposure to social media risks become more apparent, the long-term positive impact on society could be substantial.

View 2 - Why it won't work?

In the long term, the effectiveness of the social media ban for children under 16 may be challenging to assess. The primary benefits, such as preventing mental health crises or reducing cyberbullying, are inherently invisible. For instance, a suicide that is prevented due to reduced exposure to harmful content will not make headlines, making it difficult to quantify the positive impact of the ban.

Conversely, the immediate and visible drawbacks of the ban are significant. Children may experience frustration and a sense of exclusion due to restricted access to social media, which is a major platform for social interaction and community building. This restriction can be particularly painful for those who rely on these platforms for support and connection, such as children with special needs or those from marginalized communities.

The challenge lies in balancing these unseen benefits with the very real and immediate pain of access restrictions, ensuring that the measures taken to protect young people do not inadvertently cause harm by isolating them or pushing them towards less safe online environments.

2 Short Stories

Here are two short stories about the bill's implementation to help readers gain a more vivid image about the bill's potential impact.

Story 1 - A New Beginning <p align="center"> <img src="/images/u16_ban3.png" alt="U16 on social media"> </p> In a small town in Australia, 14-year-old Mia often felt overwhelmed by the constant notifications and pressures of social media. Every day, she scrolled through endless posts, comparing herself to the seemingly perfect lives of her peers. The negative comments and cyberbullying she occasionally faced only made things worse, leaving her feeling anxious and isolated.

When the new law banning social media for children under 16 was announced, Mia's parents were initially concerned about how she would react. However, they decided to use this opportunity to help Mia find healthier ways to spend her time.

At first, Mia was frustrated and felt disconnected from her friends. But her parents encouraged her to join local clubs and activities. She started attending art classes, where she discovered a passion for painting. She also joined a community soccer team, making new friends and enjoying the physical activity.

Without the constant distraction of social media, Mia's grades improved, and she felt more focused and engaged in her schoolwork. She began to sleep better and felt less anxious. The supportive environment of her new activities helped her build confidence and develop real-world social skills.

One day, Mia's art teacher noticed her talent and encouraged her to enter a local art competition. To her surprise, Mia won first place, and her painting was displayed in the town's art gallery. The recognition boosted her self-esteem and opened up new opportunities for her to explore her creativity.

Mia's parents were thrilled to see the positive changes in their daughter. They realized that the social media ban had given Mia the chance to rediscover herself and find joy in activities that truly mattered to her. While the transition had been challenging, the long-term benefits were undeniable.

As Mia stood in front of her painting at the gallery, she felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. She knew that this new beginning had set her on a path to a healthier, happier future.

Story 2 - The Lonely Path <p align="center"> <img src="/images/u16_ban4.png" alt="U16 on social media"> </p>

In a bustling city in Australia, 15-year-old Alex found solace in the online communities he was part of. Diagnosed with a rare medical condition, Alex often felt isolated from his peers at school who didn't understand his struggles. Social media was his lifeline, connecting him with others who shared similar experiences and offering a supportive network that made him feel less alone.

When the new law banning social media for children under 16 was implemented, Alex's world was turned upside down. His parents, following the new regulations, restricted his access to all social media platforms. Overnight, Alex lost contact with his online friends and the support groups that had been his source of comfort and understanding.

Without his online community, Alex felt increasingly isolated. The friends he had made in real life were kind, but they couldn't fully grasp the challenges he faced. The sense of loneliness grew, and Alex found it harder to cope with his condition without the encouragement and advice from those who truly understood.

His school performance began to suffer as his motivation waned. The extracurricular activities his parents encouraged him to join didn't fill the void left by his online connections. Alex missed the late-night chats with friends who knew exactly what he was going through, and the feeling of being part of a community where he was accepted and understood.

One day, Alex's parents noticed the change in his demeanor. He was quieter, more withdrawn, and seemed to have lost his spark. They realized that the social media ban, intended to protect him, had inadvertently taken away a crucial support system. They decided to seek help from a counselor who specialized in working with children with chronic illnesses.

Through counseling, Alex found new ways to cope with his feelings of isolation. His parents also worked to find alternative support groups and activities that could provide some of the connection he had lost. While it was a difficult journey, Alex slowly began to rebuild his sense of community and support.

The experience taught Alex's parents the importance of balancing protection with the need for connection. They advocated for more nuanced approaches to online safety, recognizing that for some children, social media is not just a distraction but a vital lifeline.

Sports, Tech, and the Joy of Parental Involvement

Thu, 21 Nov 2024 01:00:00 GMT

Sports, Tech, and the Joy of Parental Involvement

In this episode, we delve into the world of youth sports, particularly basketball, and explore how technology is revolutionizing the way we train and engage with the game.

The Evolution of Youth Sports

When our son, Martin, started playing basketball, it was a simple joy of watching him have fun. However, as he joined a team and started competing, the experience took on a new dimension. The emotional investment for parents, especially moms who might not have been traditionally sports-oriented, becomes profound. It's a rollercoaster of emotions, from the thrill of victory to the disappointment of defeat.

The Role of Technology

Technology has significantly impacted the way we approach youth sports. Platforms like YouTube and Instagram offer a wealth of training materials, allowing us to learn from top coaches and players worldwide. It's incredible how accessible high-quality coaching has become.

One of the most exciting technological advancements is the use of in-court recording systems. These systems capture every moment of the game, enabling us to analyze plays, identify strengths and weaknesses, and provide targeted feedback. This level of data-driven coaching can significantly elevate a young athlete's performance.

Balancing Tech and Traditional Training

While technology offers immense benefits, it's crucial to strike a balance. For younger athletes, excessive screen time can be detrimental. We believe in prioritizing fundamental skills and a structured training routine. Apps like Home Court, while innovative, may not be the best fit for every child, especially younger ones.

The Importance of Team Sports

Beyond physical fitness, team sports instill valuable life lessons. They teach children about teamwork, discipline, perseverance, and the importance of handling both success and failure. The experience of trying out for a rep team and facing potential disappointment is a powerful learning opportunity. It teaches them to bounce back, work harder, and maintain a positive mindset.

Conclusion

As parents, our goal is to nurture well-rounded individuals. Sports, combined with the right technological tools, can play a significant role in achieving this. By fostering a love for the game, emphasizing hard work, and providing supportive guidance, we can help our children develop not only as athletes but also as resilient and confident individuals.

Preparing Kids for the Jobs of 2040

Sun, 10 Nov 2024 01:00:00 GMT

Preparing Kids for the Jobs of 2040

In this episode of Nerdi Dads, MJ and Dave discuss the future of work and how to prepare children for the jobs of 2040. They start by reflecting on the technological advancements of the past 15 years, such as the rise of mobile technology, social media, and AI. They then delve into potential future trends and the impact they may have on the job market.

Future Trends and Job Market

MJ and Dave predict that the next 15 years will see a significant increase in AI adoption and automation.
This will lead to the emergence of new job roles that leverage AI to solve complex problems and improve efficiency.
They also anticipate a rise in entrepreneurial opportunities, as individuals will be able to start businesses with lower barriers to entry thanks to AI tools.
However, they also acknowledge that certain jobs may become obsolete due to automation.
They emphasize the importance of continuous learning and adaptability, as individuals will need to acquire new skills to stay relevant in the evolving job market.

Preparing Children for the Future

To prepare children for the future, MJ and Dave suggest focusing on developing a strong business mindset in identifying needs, adding value to customers and being smart with money.
They also emphasize the importance of learning to work with AI assistance, which is harder than one might think especially when the assistance is continues to evolve.
They encourage parents to expose their children to various technologies and encourage them to experiment and learn.
Additionally, they recommend promoting a love of learning and a willingness to embrace change.

The Role of Education

MJ and Dave discuss the role of education in preparing children for the future.
They believe that traditional education systems need to adapt to the changing needs of the job market.
They advocate for a more flexible and personalized approach to education, which allows students to learn at their own pace and pursue their interests.

Conclusion

In conclusion, MJ and Dave believe that the future of work is uncertain but exciting.
By guiding children with the right skills and mindset, we can help them adapt to the jobs of 2040.
They encourage parents to start thinking and discussing this with friends and family.

We hope this post is helpful!

Creating Comms App for speech delayed kid

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 14:00:00 GMT

Creating Comms App for speech delayed kid

MJ's 7 year old son Andriel has speech delay. This means that he is able to speak, but he has difficulty doing so. MJ have been exploring a lot of different AAC apps to help him communicate. However, most of the apps in the App stores are either too expensive and also designed for kids who can't speak at all (mute). So, MJ decided to build his own custom AAC app for Andriel, one that will not only help with his communication, but also encourage him to speak and learn.

Building a Custom AAC App

The app has a UI design that allows Andriel to select the envrionmenn his in, e.g. restaurant or classroom. It will then bring up common objects (with picture) related to to context. Once the object is selected it will speak the word. For speech delayed kids, learning new vocabulary can be a big challenge. The app will pronounce the object. Over time, this may help the kid to remember the new vocabulary.

Conclusion

Very early stage of the App. This can be deployed onto Andriel's iPad. There is then the training element. Will look forward to the future updates on this App.

3D Printer Failed Attemp 1

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 14:00:00 GMT

3D Printer Failed Attemp 1

3D printing is a great way to introduce your kids to the world of technology and engineering. It is also a fun and creative way to spend time together. However, 3D printers can be tricky to set up and use. In this blog post, Dave shares his first failed attempt to setup a 3D printer for his boys and their friends.

Select the printer

The first step is to do some research and choose the right 3D printer for your family. There are a variety of 3D printers on the market, so it is important to find one that is suitable for your needs and budget.

Creality Ender V3 was chosen as an entry level option and the positive overall review. Dave waited for about 6 months for the 30% discount on the machine from Jaycar Australia.

Install the printer

Once you have selected a printer, you will need to assemble it and install the software. This can be a bit of a challenge, so it is important to be patient and follow the instructions carefully. The video that comes with the usb stick is much better than the paper manual!

Install the printer

Installation and the printing troubleshooting process is not fun for the kids. There are moments of excitements, but since 3D printer is a slow and precise task. My boys got bored pretty quickly.

Conclusion

3D printing can be a fun and rewarding experience for both kids and parents. However, it is important to be prepared for the challenges that may arise.

Note

Modified content based on Google Gemini extraction of the YouTube video.

My Creality Ender V3 SE Printer is FINALLY Printing!

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 14:00:00 GMT

My Creality Ender V3 SE Printer is FINALLY Printing!

It's been mostly a frustrating trying to figure out the 3D printer in the past 2-3 weeks. To a point that I had to call Jaycar Australia back for some help. And HELP received! They've asked me to print the 3D Benchy test print.

Kids reaction

Both boys are pretty excited when they see the physical little grey boat sitting at the printer when we got home. We've tried different prints as well with very limited success. I'll show them more about the model convertion tool next time.

3D Benchy - Test Print

I think the design of 3D Benchy model is somehow suitable for filament 3D printers. After the cheetah print in comparison is no where near the quality of the Benchy model.

Print Plat problem

I've already ruined some areas of the print plate. The filament can be really difficult to peel off. I accidentally cut my fingers as well. I will need to get some other tools that can allow me to apply more forces.

Model download and Print software

The models are free to download from Thangs.com. While it is easy to search, more attention is required to understand the dimension of the model and also the potential issues associated with the model design.

Creality print is the software that's used to load the model and convert it into a gcode file for printing.

Conclusion

Has been lots of learning this week. The main achievement other than the printed models, is to have gained a broad understanding the various components involved from hardware to filament to the configurations to the models and the slicing tool. For a successful print, all these aspects needs to be aligned.

Notes for future

explore more model designs
continue to calibrate the printer
replace the plate
be patient!