The Advanced Output Center is the School of the Art Institute of Chicago’s printing and prototyping lab specializing in digital input and output. The AOC’s facilities include laser cutting, large format 2D scanning and 3D printing and scanning.
Virtual Lab Tour
Get Certified for Laser Cutting
Get Certified For Ultimaker Self Service Printing
Book Slice Review to use self-service Ultimaker printers.
Book Appointments for Laser Cutters, 3D Scanners, or Lab Use
Self Service 3D Printing | |
| Self service 3D printing will be unavailable from April 28th to May 11th so we can focus completely on printing orders in Papercut. To 3D print you'll need to submit an order to us via Papercut or self service 3D printing is also available at 280 Digital Fabrication Studio. Sorry for any inconvenience this may cause. |
Hours | ||
| Summer 2025 | May 27 - Aug 22 | Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:00pm |
| Fall 2025 | Aug 25 - Dec 15 | Monday to Friday 8:30am to 9:00pm Saturday 9am to 3pm |
Dates Closed | ||
| Independence Day Labor Day Thanksgiving Break | July 4 September 1 November 24-28 |
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Access
With very few stipulations, the AOC’s services and facilities are available to currently enrolled students, active faculty and staff at SAIC. Please see the individual resource sections for details.
All users must attend an certification prior to using the laser cutters or 3D scanners. The devices are self-service and are available for use during regular operating hours. See the Laser Access Policy or 3D Scanner Access Policy page for details.
Certifications
Certifications are available online and can take about 30 to 45 minutes to complete. Laser cutting certifications are good for four calendar years at both the Advanced Output Center and the 280 Digital Fabrication Studio. Certifications for 3D scanning and 3D printing do not expire.
To request a class tour, contact the AOC at advancedoutput@saic.edu or 312.629.6688.