CatalystEX 4.5: New Features, Enhanced Compatibility, and GrabCad Print Integration

UPDATE: Catalyst software has been discontinued and replaced by GrabCad Print. GrabCad offers a free “Print” version and a premium “Shop” version. Start a trial of GrabCad Shop or access GrabCad Print for free.

Stratasys has just released CatalystEX 4.5 for the uPrint and Dimension printer lines. While the interface may look familiar, this update introduces several significant enhancements that simplify system maintenance and boost print quality.

Below is a concise overview of the key features and improvements that differentiate CatalystEX 4.5 from its predecessor, Catalyst 4.4.

Compatibility

CatalystEX 4.5 now runs seamlessly on Windows 7, 8, 8.1, and all current Windows 10 platforms. Support for Windows XP has been removed.

Windows Explorer Integration

The installer now adds thumbnail previews for STL files (.STL) directly in Windows Explorer, including larger renderings in the Preview pane when enabled. CMB files (.CMB) also receive enhanced visibility, with details displayed in the Details view, Details pane, properties window, and hover tooltip.

Stratasys Update Manager

Automatically installed with CatalystEX 4.5, the Update Manager streamlines firmware and software updates for the following systems: Dimension Elite, Dimension 1200es (BST/SST), uPrint, uPrint Plus, uPrint SE, and uPrint SE Plus. Launch it from the Start Menu or let it start automatically when new updates become available. Simply place the machine in “Upgrade mode” via the maintenance menu and click “Update.”

CMB Viewer Enhancements

• Drag‑and‑drop CMB files to open them directly in the viewer.
• A render indicator now marks the start of each toolpath.

Printer Status Improvements

The Printer Status tab now displays pack lists in the queue and the history view includes all parts for nested packs.

STL Processing Advances

CatalystEX 4.5 features refined toolpath and support‑generation logic that stabilizes support structures and improves surface finish, leading to higher‑quality prints.

Installation Notes

• Network security settings that block downloads may cause the upgrade to fail.
• After installing CatalystEX 4.5, any older version can be safely uninstalled. If you previously had a version older than 4.4, review the full release notes for additional changes.

Tags: Catalyst, Dimension, Insight, Stratasys, uPrint