I've managed to get the host software compiling.
Is there a list of improvements or suggested new features? I've found the todo page (http://reprap.org/bin/view/Main/DarwinTodo) but it looks old.
I'm happy to put some effort in to improving the software (since that's my day job). I just need to know what is most important to be done.
Currently, I can't test any of the interesting bits (actually printing), because I haven't started building mine yet. I'm waiting for the electronics kit from RRRF first.
My current list is:
General review/ familiarisation
Speedups and optimisation - it takes a long time for the main screen to start up. I.m running it through a profiler to try and identify what's taking the time, and whether I can increase the overall performance.
Suggestion: Split the current large properties file into separate sections or separate files. Sections might include :
reprap.host.software (colours, software options, etc)
reprap.darwin.0 (comms settings, stepper x y z spds, allows for multiple darwins driven from the same PC?)
reprap.extruder.1 (heater/thermistor, extruder motor speed, allow for multiple extruders or other tools)
Suggestion: better support for different materials? maybe a properties file for each material (CAPA, ABS, etc) with melting points, extrusion rates?
The problem is, I'm guessing as to what's needed. Anyone with a reprap and better ideas?
DaveR