14 DAY TRIAL // Dell has well and truly made its intentions regarding the 3D printing industry clear: it means to fully support the movement. In fact, the company has just signed a deal with MakerBot for distributing Replicator 3D printers.
This announcement comes on the heels of a report that revealed that Dell had ordered no fewer than 5,000 3D printers from Zortrax.
As part of the collaboration between MakerBot and Dell, the latter will offer Replicator 3D printers, scanners, and raw materials to its customer base.
The goal is end-to-end 3D design solution enabling small and medium-sized businesses to make prototypes quickly and easily.
It should prove a significant boost to their operational efficiency, and a considerable boost to Dell's finances, and MakerBot's for that matter. Prestige is another thing that will go around.
“At Dell we strive to arm start-ups, designers and engineers with the powerful, reliable and cutting-edge technology they need to succeed,” said Andy Rhodes, executive director, Dell Precision workstations.
“With the addition of MakerBot’s 3D printers and scanners to Dell’s workstation portfolio, our customers can now bring their innovative prototypes to life much more quickly and affordably.”
It's not a shock to see this happen, not with 3D printing on such a quick rise. In fact, Stratasys (the owner of MakerBot) has recently unveiled a full-color 3D printer, and it would not be a stretch to assume that Dell would incorporate it in its supply chain too, sooner or later.
Pre-orders will start on February 20, at which point there will be six Replicator 3D printers, as well as scanners (MakerBot Digitizer Desktop 3D Scanner) available to choose from, with prices from $949 / €949 to $2,799 / €2,799.
And while Dell does aim this at businesses and professionals, consumers with deep pockets should be able to get one easily enough as well.