the reprap is now crudely functionion and has printed out several test shapes.

two squares with layers.

and a flat raft shape.

but most importantly, i've figured out how to consistantly start a print off properly.

using gcdump at the command line:

0. set metric mode

G21

1. move extruder to home:

G1 X-100 Y-100

2. get the extruder good and hot. i tell it to go to 118 with 

M104 P118

wait until it is up to temperature.  (will take a while)

3. turn on extruder motor

M101