Cura
Once we have a design and a .STL file, it has to be converted to the proper code for our printer. Some CAD software systems have this built-in. In our case, the printer manufacture recommends a software called Cura. See https://ultimaker.com/en/products/ultimaker-cura-software
Depending on what computer you have (in our workshop we have Dell 32 bit surface devices), a different version of Cura will be necessary. The Cura 15.04.6 work with our Dells. If you have your own laptop you will need to determine what version of CURA will work and then download. The manufacture for our Monoprice 3D printer recommends using the Prusa i3 default when loading the CURA software.
When you open Cura, the home screen will look like this
We can load our .STL file by clicking on the file folder icon in the left hand corner and finding GOSTEM.STL. When loaded, the image looks like this:
You can check the design to make sure it will print the way you had designed and then save it as a file on the desktop or on a memory stick. Once the file is saved as Gcode, it is ready to transfer to the 3D printer.