Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What type of file will ProtoWire accept?

ProtoWire will generally accept all STL files to produce a quote. If we receive your order and find that the supplied STL file will not provide you with an acceptable SLA or FDM model, you will be contacted by a member of within one business day. If an STL file is not available, contact and they will work with you to create an acceptable file for quotation.

What is an STL file?

STL is a file format native to the stereolithography CAD software created by 3D Systems. This file format is supported by many other software packages; it is widely used for rapid prototyping and computer-aided manufacturing. STL files describe only the surface geometry of a three dimensional object without any representation of color, texture or other common CAD model attributes. The STL format specifies both ASCII and binary representations. Binary files are more common, since they are more compact. (www.wikipedia.com)

How long will it take to receive a quotation from ProtoWire?

Your ProtoWire quotation will be viewable instantly. You can also save your quote and have the quote emailed to you. From that point you have the opportunity to purchase a prototype or save the quotation for up to 30 days.

Is there a minimum amount I have to spend?

There is a $300 minimum order amount.

What are typical SLA tolerances?

In the "X/Y" axis, the first inch can be held to +/- 0.005", and for every inch thereafter, +/-0.001". In the "Z" axis, +/- 0.01" for the first inch and +/- 0.002" for every inch thereafter.

Will my SLA be representative of production parts?

SLA or FDM models are intended for engineering review. The models are not representative of the production process and are not made of production materials.

How soon will I get my prototype once I place my order?

Typical production timelines are usually as little as two to three business days. If you require faster service, please contact for expedited service options prior to placing your order.

What if I would like a highly visual prototype?

Visual prototypes are sometimes used for photography, user studies and marketing review. Phillips Plastics offers a wide variety of finishing options including painting, pad printing, laser etching and others to simulate, and in many cases prove out a production process. Contact Phillips design team to discuss options, and request a custom quote for your application.

How do I decide which prototyping option is best for me?

Our comparison chart here on the ProtoWire site will be helpful in making your decision. When we receive your order, we may contact you if we feel a different prototyping method or material is more appropriate for your geometry.

How can ProtoWire orders be paid?

ProtoWire orders can be paid using a credit card or a purchase order. To use a purchase order you must first be set up as a purchase order user by the ProtoWire administrator.

How do I get set up to use purchase orders for ProtoWire transactions?

New ProtoWire Users - When you create your log in, you will find a checkbox on the form to request use of a purchase orders. Check this box to set up your new account.

Current ProtoWire Users - After you log in, find the purchase orders section(see below) and select the "Click Here" area.

What types of purchase orders can be used?

Purchase orders can be set up as a standardpurchase order, which will allow for a single order. For more flexibility, a blanket purchase order can be created. A blanket purchase order can be used multiple times by more than one user. Phillips Plastics will invoice you for each shipment made and you can check the balance remaining any time you want.

What types of purchase order users are available on ProtoWire?

There are two user levels that can be established on ProtoWire. The administrator level account can create and manage purchase orders in the system. The user level account can use purchase orders created by the administrator.

As a purchase order administrator, if I create a blanket purchase order number how can I share it with my team for their use?

When a purchase order administrator creates a new purchase, they can see who will be authorized to use the purchase orders. If the list of users is acceptable, click the "Notify Users" button. To add users, fill in the required information in the "Create New User" section and then click the "Create Users" button located at the bottom of the screen.

How can a user request a new purchase order from their administrator?

During checkout select the "Purchase Order" button and choose "Continue With Payment" icon. Now select the "Request Purchase Order" icon and a request will be sent to your ProtoWirepurchase order administrator. You will see a confirmation page which will show you who the request was sent to.