Thomas Christoph the owner of COREi64.com has announced a significant change in their product distribution model, set to take effect in September 2024. These changes will impact all 3D models and electronics projects, except for CMD products.
3D Printed Products:
Starting in September, COREi64.com will transition all 3D printed products to their shared projects site on PCBWay.com and their COREi64 Shapeways account. This change will provide customers with greater flexibility, allowing them to choose preferred colors, materials, and print types (such as Resin and FDM).
Commercial reselling of COREi64 products will be permitted with proper attribution. Retro shops and individuals can bulk purchase these 3D printed products at discounted rates through PCBWay or Shapeways, with no additional compensation required for using the designs.
Electronics Projects:
Similarly, all electronics products (excluding CMD products) will be available through PCBWay Shared Projects. As with the 3D printed products, there will be no restrictions on bulk ordering and reselling, provided proper attribution is given to COREi64. PCBWay also offers a service to assemble boards, catering to those who prefer fully assembled electronics.
CMD Product Line:
COREi64 will continue to personally manage the CMD product line, including FD-Series Drives, HD Drives, RAMLink, and SuperCPU-related products.
Rationale:
After a decade of running the shop, the volume of developed products has become unmanageable for a single person. This shift aims to make COREi64’s products more accessible to enthusiasts worldwide, reducing costs and shipping expenses, and providing higher-quality print options. By moving production to PCBWay and Shapeways, COREi64 can ensure better availability and quality, while also freeing up time to develop new products.
Future Plans:
COREi64 will continue to develop the CMD line and other new electronic and 3D printable products. New products will be made available through PCBWay or Shapeways. While this decision may not be universally popular, it was made with the intent of making COREi64’s products more attainable for the community.
Thomas also states “All orders received before the transition will be processed and shipped by COREi64, ensuring no disruption for outstanding shipments.
