Exporting & test printing

Save before exporting#

Use Save project to keep the editable design. An STL stores mesh geometry, not the original sleeve-preparation steps, bolt measurements, or generator controls.

Wait until the latest live calculation is complete. Save and export are unavailable while the visible result does not match valid current settings.

Choose the correct output#

For action-camera designs, Export STL exports the current tab. Prepare exports the prepared sleeve. Mount exports the generated assembly.

For FPV camera tabs, select Print parts to export both tabs, left only, or right only. Antenna mounts and electronics trays export a single connected assembly. Arm feet export from the workbench after choosing Use this foot.

Guide objects, scene furniture, lighting, the camera-direction arrow, and red preview shading do not enter the STL. Imported mesh textures and material colors are not exported.

Check dimensions in the slicer#

STL does not encode a unit system. Mount Maker uses millimeters; confirm that your slicer reads the part at the expected size. Compare a known spacing or overall dimension before printing.

Inspect the whole model, including the underside, inside cavities, hole paths, retaining lips, and thin connections. Review the sliced layer preview, not just the shaded model.

Choose orientation and supports#

Positioning an export on the build plane is not automatic print-orientation optimization. Select orientation and supports in your slicer based on your printer, material, intended flexibility, and loading direction.

FPV tabs with upright standoff sleeves may have elevated connecting arms that need support. Camera sleeves and overhangs also need a considered orientation. Do not copy a development test's print settings as a universal recipe.

Make a fit sample#

Print a sample to verify hole allowance, standoff grip, device insertion, retaining lips, and camera access. Material behavior and printer calibration change the fit of the same nominal geometry.

Adjust the model dimensions or allowances based on the physical result, save the revised project, and export again. Keep notes about material and settings with the project or build documentation.

Inspect the finished assembly#

Install the actual hardware and check the complete build. Geometric validation does not measure durability, vibration damping, flight loads, or retention under impact.

For a blocked export or an unexpected model, see Troubleshooting.