Managing director, Stephen Knowles, explained: "This will provide people with an instant competitive quote for a very high accuracy prototype, without any obligation. As soon as they hit submit, the quote is issued. The whole process takes a matter of minutes. Once given the go ahead, we can get working on it straightaway, cutting down on turnaround time too. This service combined with the SLA means that potentially we could produce a prototype within a day."

The Viper machine allows users to use SLA (stereolithography) prototyping, sometimes known as 3D printing, to turn CAD files into high quality, solid plastic parts in a matter of hours.

The Viper SLA system also allows companies to choose between standard resolution mode for the best balance of build speed and part resolution, and high resolution mode for ultra-detailed small parts and features. The resin used is also higher quality than most, creating extremely durable parts that can form the basis for a wide range of solid imaging applications, including casting and moulding.

As an added incentive to test out the new service, November will see IDC offering a 20% discount for all those using the SLA online quote service.