MS 3D builder?

[Colin Divall]

Inspired by James's excellent intro in the Snooze, and then his equally excellent YouTube videos, I've been trying to play with Plug Track. Two problems:

1) MS seem to have recently - in just the last few weeks - withdrawn 3D Builder. I have managed to get a copy by slightly devious means, but if the withdrawal is both real and permanent, those more knowledgeable than me will have to come up with an alternative....

2) Despite following everyone's instructions to the letter:

I keep getting this error message:

Is this down to temporary changes at Templot Central? I can preview both the chairs and the timbers without any problem. Have tried reloading Templot 2.45a; and I'm certainly not trying to download to a floppy!

Any ideas would be much appreciated.

Colin

 

[John S]

I've just done a search for MS 3D builder and the first result was this:
https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9wzdncrfj3t6?hl=en-GB&gl=CZ

Other results were people "complaining" that they couldn't find it, this is one of the responses:
https://answers.microsoft.com/en-us...ft-store/19742b78-3529-43fa-bc41-3b749e085f2a

Hope that helps clarify the situation.

John from 33820 St Ciers sur Gironde

 

[Colin Divall]

Thanks John. Yes, that link certainly seems to work, and I've no idea why it didn't come up for me, despite quite a long time searching, Your 'one of the responses' is the slightly devious route I eventually took!

Colin

 

[Martin Wynne]

.

Inspired by James's excellent intro in the Snooze, and then his equally excellent YouTube videos, I've been trying to play with Plug Track. Two problems:

1) MS seem to have recently - in just the last few weeks - withdrawn 3D Builder. I have managed to get a copy by slightly devious means, but if the withdrawal is both real and permanent, those more knowledgeable than me will have to come up with an alternative....

2) Despite following everyone's instructions to the letter:

View attachment 11040

I keep getting this error message:

View attachment 11041

Is this down to temporary changes at Templot Central? I can preview both the chairs and the timbers without any problem. Have tried reloading Templot 2.45a; and I'm certainly not trying to download to a floppy!

Any ideas would be much appreciated.

Colin

@Colin Divall

Hi Colin,

Welcome to Templot Club.

3D Builder is available for download on this link:

https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9wzdncrfj3t6

It seems to be working here. If it won't install from that link, there are several tutorials online about how to install apps from the Microsoft Store.

Your DXF/STL file problem is most likely because you have included a space in the file name "250mm chairs". Spaces are not allowed in file names anywhere in Templot. If you change the space to an underscore it will probably work: "250mm_chairs".

If that doesn't work, please ask again.

However, you seem to be reporting a bug, because Templot normally replaces spaces automatically. I need to look into that, so thanks for reporting it.

cheers,

Martin.

 

[Colin Divall]

Thanks Martin. I've tried all sorts of file names, including the default. Same problem every time!

Colin

 

[Martin Wynne]

Thanks Martin. I've tried all sorts of file names, including the default. Same problem every time!

Colin

@Colin Divall

Hi Colin,

Have you been using the preview functions and left the preview window open? Please close it before exporting files.

Where have you got Templot installed? Is there a space anywhere at all in the path to it?

If so it won't work, for example in C:\Program Files\ Don't ever install Templot there.

The default location is C:\TEMPLOT_DEV\

See also this topic:

https://85a.uk/templot/club/index.php?posts/7881

If that's not the reason, please can you post your BOX file here and I will see if there is something in the file causing the problem. Thanks.

Also, if you have any 3rd Party anti-virus program running, please try turning it off while you save the STL file.

cheers,

Martin.

 

[Colin Divall]

That was the problem Martin, thanks. (It wasn't in C:\Progfam Files\ but neither was it in the default; never had any issue until now, however). Lesson learnt.

Colin

 

[Cransford]

.

@Colin Divall

Hi Colin,

Welcome to Templot Club.

3D Builder is available for download on this link:

https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9wzdncrfj3t6

It seems to be working here. If it won't install from that link, there are several tutorials online about how to install apps from the Microsoft Store.

Your DXF/STL file problem is most likely because you have included a space in the file name "250mm chairs". Spaces are not allowed in file names anywhere in Templot. If you change the space to an underscore it will probably work: "250mm_chairs".

If that doesn't work, please ask again.

However, you seem to be reporting a bug, because Templot normally replaces spaces automatically. I need to look into that, so thanks for reporting it.

cheers,

Martin.

Martin,

Having taken first baby steps in track printing I thought it would be better to follow th
Starting to get to grips with track printing, decided best approach would be small steps following the Bexhill videos. I seem to have fallen at the step of 3D Builder.

I've tried countless times through your 'get file' link (option 2), going directly to MS app-store, and even trying a Google search, and all that happens is there is a message saying an executable file is in my downloads - except there isn't anything! So, I thought I'd drop back to viewing via Templot (option 6) but file will only open in Chitubox?! I thought I'd save again and the file name is preceded by the Chitubox cartoon.

Any ideas warmly welcomed!

Cheers,

Paul

 

[Martin Wynne]

Martin,

Having taken first baby steps in track printing I thought it would be better to follow th
Starting to get to grips with track printing, decided best approach would be small steps following the Bexhill videos. I seem to have fallen at the step of 3D Builder.

I've tried countless times through your 'get file' link (option 2), going directly to MS app-store, and even trying a Google search, and all that happens is there is a message saying an executable file is in my downloads - except there isn't anything! So, I thought I'd drop back to viewing via Templot (option 6) but file will only open in Chitubox?! I thought I'd save again and the file name is preceded by the Chitubox cartoon.

Any ideas warmly welcomed!

Cheers,

Paul

@Cransford

Hi Paul,

Which version of Windows? Are you sure 3D Builder is not already installed? Try right-clicking on the STL file and then Open with and select 3D Builder from the list. Choose the option always to use 3D Builder to open STL files.

Or from Start, try searching for 3D Builder. Then in 3D Builder open the STL file. It will be at:

C:\TEMPLOT_DEV\STL-FILES-FIXED\

If you can't get it working, you can use a free online service which does the same mesh-fixing process:

https://www.formware.co/onlinestlrepair

It's difficult for me to advise on Windows problems if I'm not seeing the problem here, sorry.

I thought I'd drop back to viewing via Templot (option 6)

You have lost me there -- STL files can't be opened in Templot.

In option 6 Templot tries to open the STL file, assuming your system has associated STL files with 3D Builder and will open it in 3D Builder. It seems you have STL files associated with Chitubox.

Or do you mean trying to use the STL preview program? If you haven't installed it, click edit..:

(If 3D Builder was a normal executable instead of a Windows Store App, it would all be simple.)

cheers,

Martin.

 

[Cransford]

@Cransford

Hi Paul,

Which version of Windows? Are you sure 3D Builder is not already installed? Try right-clicking on the STL file and then Open with and select 3D Builder from the list. Choose the option always to use 3D Builder to open STL files.

Or from Start, try searching for 3D Builder. Then in 3D Builder open the STL file. It will be at:

C:\TEMPLOT_DEV\STL-FILES-FIXED\

If you can't get it working, you can use a free online service which does the same mesh-fixing process:

https://www.formware.co/onlinestlrepair

It's difficult for me to advise on Windows problems if I'm not seeing the problem here, sorry.



You have lost me there -- STL files can't be opened in Templot.

In option 6 Templot tries to open the STL file, assuming your system has associated STL files with 3D Builder and will open it in 3D Builder. It seems you have STL files associated with Chitubox.

Or do you mean trying to use the STL preview program? If you haven't installed it, click edit..:

View attachment 11582


(If 3D Builder was a normal executable instead of a Windows Store App, it would all be simple.)

cheers,

Martin.

Martin,

Many thanks for prompt reply.

Laptop is running Windows 11 home, and certainly agree that MS don't make life easy. Very happy to report that problem hopefully solved. I did another Google search for MS Builder & Windows 11 and came across the French MS app, which actually worked! So, happy days, first print is on its way!

Apologies for confusing you slighlty with options - my fault for poor description!

Once again, thanks,

Paul

 

[Hayfield]

Paul

If its any consolation I had issues downloading to Windows 10, but windows 11 was fine

 

[Stephen Freeman]

My issue is speed or lack of it with 3D Builder, I suppose I will have to upgrade the PC, which is a pain as otherwise it is fast enough.

 

[Steve_Cornford]

Hi Stephen,
How complex is the .stl file that you are trying to fix with 3D builder?
You can always try the online mesh fixer:-

press 3 to invoke

Steve

 

[Stephen Freeman]

Hi,
I may give that a try, it was just the chairs in 0MF for the default plan. I gave up. It did do the chairs for the nose on a later try and was fairly quick. I think restricting it to just the chairs for the turnout may work.

 

[Stephen Freeman]

Well that didn't work MS 3D Builder wouldn't load the file, a memory exception problem I think. I will try it on the other PC. It was the chairs only for a 0MF B7, not very hopeful though.

 

[Terry Downes]

Well that didn't work MS 3D Builder wouldn't load the file, a memory exception problem I think. I will try it on the other PC. It was the chairs only for a 0MF B7, not very hopeful though.

Hi Stephen, if you drop the file here I will try and fix it for you. (or email it to me at terry@kosmik.co.uk)

 

[Stephen Freeman]

Hi, thanks tried it on the other PC and no problem. So I can only think its to do with the PC itself. I will check the version of 3D builder etc but may be a problem with the physical memory itself. Progress of a sort any way.

 

[Stephen Freeman]

OK tried it again on the upstairs PC, same problem "Error 0x0004005. Apparently its a windows thing and short of re--installation not a lot I can do, so I will have to use the online tool on this PC

 

[Stephen Freeman]

I am assuming that the reason I have a problem with one PC is that although they are both windows 10 one which works was a fresh install and the problematic one was an upgrade from Windows 7, which in turn was probably an upgrade from Windows XP.

 

[Stephen Freeman]

Well that didn't work MS 3D Builder wouldn't load the file, a memory exception problem I think. I will try it on the other PC. It was the chairs only for a 0MF B7, not very hopeful though.

Well the online thing didn't work for a COT stl either, too much to fix, so I will just have to use the other PC

 

[Martin Wynne]

I am assuming that the reason I have a problem with one PC is that although they are both windows 10 one which works was a fresh install and the problematic one was an upgrade from Windows 7, which in turn was probably an upgrade from Windows XP.

@Stephen Freeman

Hi Stephen,

If a computer can't support 3D Builder it's likely that it won't support Cura or Chitubox with the same amount of data either.

It's interesting that it manages to support Templot ok.

You could try splitting the file into smaller bricks.

Google says "Error 0x0004005" is often caused by a Windows upgrade which did not finish.

cheers,

Martin.

 

[Stephen Freeman]

@Stephen Freeman

Hi Stephen,

If a computer can't support 3D Builder it's likely that it won't support Cura or Chitubox with the same amount of data either.

It's interesting that it manages to support Templot ok.

You could try splitting the file into smaller bricks.

Google says "Error 0x0004005" is often caused by a Windows upgrade which did not finish.

cheers,

Martin.

The 2 computers are almost the same spec so that isn't the issue. As far as I know there is no problem with the operation of Windows, so a problem with a file no longer needed normally is favourite. Although the computer has been upgraded several times over the years there is always the possibility of something left over from something as old as Windows 95, 98 XP, 7.

 

[Hayfield]

The 2 computers are almost the same spec so that isn't the issue. As far as I know there is no problem with the operation of Windows, so a problem with a file no longer needed normally is favourite. Although the computer has been upgraded several times over the years there is always the possibility of something left over from something as old as Windows 95, 98 XP, 7.

Stephen

I had and still have the same issue with my desk top, which is a computer initially supplied with Windows 7 and upgraded with Windows 10. I think we decided that the computer as too little memory to run these programs. I spoke with a salesman in Currys who explained the issue and rather than buying one of the cheapest laptops I spent a bit more on a laptop with twice the RAM

Next year Windows 10 will not be supported, My laptop is in one way fine, but due to the size of the screen not as easy to use Templot when several boxes are being used, plus it is so much slower than the laptop. I am struck in a bit of a quandary as to whether I should change my computer for a new one or just buy a monitor for the Laptop

My laptop has 8 GB RAM which works very well and should be the minimum you should aim for (according to the salesman for using 3D printing apps )

Not being a computer geek I just need something that works for me. As I said do I spend £150 for a monitor for use with my laptop or £300 to £450 on a new system, both of which will improve my usage in my railway den

 

[Stephen Freeman]

PC has 16GB RAM 1TB SSD and 1TBHDD, I might have stuffed another HDD in there as well to use for backups. Runs fast enough for me but not OK for Windows 11 as it dosn't have the required TPM (I think that's what it's called) so both will need new motherboards etc unless Microsoft relent or perhaps there is a way round it? I did read that there was.

The PC that is OK doesn't have the same amount of storage but has 32GB RAM, has the same CPU, so same windows 11 issue. Apparently I can install Windows 11 on it but only as new install not an upgrade, seems crazy to me. Think a cheap windows 11 machine for Web use may be on the cards sometime next year.

 

[Phil O]

John,

If your laptop has a HDMI socket, you can use an HDMI cable to plug the laptop into a tv, to provide a monitor.

 

[Hayfield]

Phil

Thanks but my desk top is my TV, not got a tv in my den, I do have an aerial socket in the den, but technology moved on by the time my den was ready

I think for the price of a TV I can have a computer, but I may opt for one with a larger screen as lately Templot needs several boxes open at the same time

 

[Trevor]

Hello,
If one has a Windows 10 computer running Templot OK the best thing to do is switch auto updates off and stop doing updates altogether.! suspect Microsoft do their best to force people into using Windows 11 and newer computers.
I use Linux for most things but have a desktop with Windows 10 just for Templot plug track and 3D printing as I started getting issues using later Templot versions and plug track with wine. I can still use Templot with a Linux setup but find issues occur which make it easier to use a Windows 10 with updates stopped for just for Templot+Plugtrack.
Trevor

 

[KHC1]

My Wife’s laptop had a problem today. It did an update and it looked like it had wiped out all her files etc. Found out that it’s a windows 10 bug. Found a fix online and followed a YouTube video. What is occurring is that the update creates a temporary profile. All the files are safe and you have to reinstall your original profile.

Keith