1. Initial Setup

  1. Prepare workspace
    Prepare your workbench or table for setting up the printer. We recommend a surface area of at least 50 × 50 cm for the device, plus additional space for handling resin and the build platform. A power outlet is required for operation; a network connection is optional.

    Tip: Since the printer processes light-curing resins, a UV-light-protected environment is strongly recommended.
     
  2. Unpack the device
    Open the box, first remove the accessory box, and then lift the printer out of the package.

  3. Position the printer
    Remove the protective bag and place the printer in the prepared location.

  4. Open the accessory box
    Open the accessory box and remove the power cable.
     
  5. Connect the printer
    Connect the printer to the power supply using the power cable. Depending on which type of network connection you prefer, you can either connect the printer using a network cable or attach the included Wi-Fi antenna to the designated port on the device.

  6. Check the device level
    Make sure all four feet of the printer are firmly in contact with the surface.
    If necessary, the feet can be adjusted by screwing them in or out slightly to compensate for unevenness.

    Tip: 
    If the printer has been moved or transported, repeat this step to ensure stability.
     
  7. Turn on the printer
    Switch on the printer using the power switch on the back. The build platform will automatically move to its top position.
     
  8. Remove transport protection
    Remove the foam block located inside the print chamber.
     
  9. Perform calibration
    The printer will guide you through the main settings, including Z-axis calibration. You can choose between automatic and manual calibration. 

    Note: We recommend automatic calibration. Follow the instructions on the printer display.
     
  10. Complete initial setup
    Once the build platform returns to the top position after calibration, the setup is complete.

2. The Software

  1. Install software
    The installation file for the slicing software Dreve ElementS is located on the included USB stick.
    Insert the USB stick into your computer and run the installation file.
     
  2. Activate license
    When starting the software for the first time, you will be prompted to enter a license. This can also be found on the USB stick and imported directly. After successful entry, the software is activated.

    Tip: 
    One license can be used on two computers simultaneously. If you would like to replace your current computer on which the software is installed with a new one, you must first remove the software license from the old computer by navigating to “Help” → “Remove license”.
     
  3. Select language, version, and printer
    After activation, select a language and the software version. Choose “dreve_default” to ensure current print profiles are loaded. Then select the printer: Sonic CS+
     
  4. Load a model
    Click “Open file” to load a model. Use “Import file” to add additional models.

    Tip: 
    Sample STL files are included on the USB stick for test prints.
     
  5. Navigation
    Use the right and middle mouse buttons to rotate and move the view.
     
  6. Position and align parts
    Use the left mouse button to select and move or rotate parts: Arrow tips: move along axes
    Two-colored squares: move within a plane
    Curved lines: rotate around axes

    Tip: 
    Ensure all parts have sufficient contact with the build platform. If needed, generate supports using “Support generation”.
     
  7. Start slicing
    Click “Start slicing” after positioning all parts. In the window: Select the correct printer and profile
    Set file name and location

    Tip: 
    Check the correct print profile for your material before slicing.
     
  8. Create and transfer print file
    Click “Ok, start slicing” to generate the print file.
    You can then: Set the file name on the printer.
    Enter the printer’s IP address to transfer directly.
    If using USB, simply close the window—the file will be saved locally. When transferring via IP, you can:
    Start the print job. 
    Monitor progress in real time. 
    Watch via integrated video monitoring.

  9. Close software
    After preparing the print job, you can close the software.

3. The first Print

  1. Prepare printer
    Follow the setup and software steps described earlier.
     
  2. Fill resin
    Fill the resin tank with the required material.
    Tip: The software shows the required amount. 
    Add slightly more than calculated, but do not exceed the “Max” mark.
     
  3. Start print job
    Start via the printer display or the slicing software.
     
  4. Monitor print status
    The status is shown in real time on both the printer display and the software.

  5. Remove build platform
    After printing, the platform moves to the top and can be removed.
    Tip: Wait a few minutes to allow excess resin to drip back into the tank.
     
  6. Remove parts
    Carefully remove parts using the provided spatula or a suitable knife.
    Tip: Ensure no cured resin remains on the platform before reuse.
     
  7. Cleaning and post-curing
    Clean and cure the parts according to the material instructions.

Congratulations!
You have completed your first print job.

4. Terminology

Build job / Print job

A single printing process executed by the printer.

Build platform

The surface where parts are printed; removable for cleaning or processing.

Print errors / Failures

Can occur due to contamination or incorrect parameters, causing defects or detachment.

Print profile

Contains all parameters (exposure time, layer thickness, etc.) for a specific resin and printer.

IP address

A unique identifier in a network, found under:
Settings → Network

Calibration

Precise alignment of the build platform parallel to the resin tank.

Cleaning and post-curing

Post-processing steps to remove excess resin and achieve final material properties.

Dreve ElementS

The slicing software used with the printer.

Supports

Structures generated to stabilize parts during printing.

Tank (Vat)

The container holding liquid resin during printing.

Our experts

DIY: Having decided for 3D printing is an innovative step for your workflow. However, sometimes especially the implementation and getting started can be challenging, not only for beginners. Our experts for dental additive manufacturing and 3D print are glad to support you on your way. They guide you through the process so that you will succeed and get your parts printed.