That's typically going to cost more than the Capture Stage, but it's also more versatile. You could, alternatively, buy a fully functional stand-alone 3D scanner that works with any computer. The downside to the 3D Capture Stage is that it's a $299 spinning plate that only works when it's paired with a specific $1899.99 computer. This is only visible in the story editor. Objects have to be flipped a couple times so that all sides can be scanned, but the software is supposed to handle stitching it all together.Įditor markup for HP Sprout 3D Scanning Stage press images. The stage tilts upward and then rotates around as the Sprout's camera scans what's on it.

Owners of the Sprout won't need the scanning accessory, called the 3D Capture Stage, to perform 3D scans, but it'll make the process much easier. Once the Sprout can scan in full 3D, it should be far more useful. HP imagines that both hobbyists and professional engineers could use it to work, allowing them to continually redesign and tweak parts by hand - both physically and digitally - throughout their process.

Sprout is certainly an interesting option for people involved in modeling. It'll also release a $299 peripheral that'll allow a person to automate the scanning process and record all sides of an object. Sprout will start 3D scanning in July, and an accessory will helpĪt launch, the Sprout could only scan objects from a single side, but HP said today that it'll release a free software update in July enabling full 3D scanning. A core use is supposed to be modeling, however, and now HP is upgrading that in a major way. The all-in-one computer, first introduced last year, has a scanner and projector jutting out on top that beams a second screen in front of it, which could show an additional desktop, a specific app, or a virtual keyboard. Sprout is HP's attempt at a new take on the desktop computer, one that doesn't have a mouse and keyboard and instead tries to blend its digital world with what's on your desk.

Best computer for 3d modeling 2015