Announced only in name this past September, MakerBot demonstrated

a working Replicator 2X 3D printer at a press conference today at CES.

The new printer is a higher-end version of the Replicator 2 MakerBot

announced this past autumn.

Like the Replicator 2, the new model features a finer printing resolution than the

original MakerBot Replicator, as small as 100 microns per layer of extruded

plastic, and it also has a redesigned chassis. Among the updated features of the

more polished-looking design are an aluminum build platform and print area

that’s enclosed by plastic windows.

The benefit is that the build area retains heat better than the open chassis,

allowing for faster and more reliable printing. Unique to the Replicator 2X

are the ability to print in two-different colors, and also the ability to print with

both PLA (Polylactic acid) and ABS (Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) plastics.

The Replicator 2 will only support one color, and will only print with PLA.

ABS can be more challenging to print with, but it’s a popular material among

3D printing hobbyists.

MakerBot will begin taking orders for the Replicator 2 from January 11,

and it says it will begin shipping the printer in customers by mid-March.

Source: reviews.cnet.com