The mPrinter Combines Open Source Software with Old School Hardware
Michael Hines — August 20, 2012 — Tech
References: kickstarter & technabob
The mPrinter is a personal thermal printer designed by Andy Muldowney. Tiny personal printers are nothing new, but Muldowney's design manages to separate itself from the pack with its open source software and old school hardware. Thermal printers are most often seen in the retail world and are used to print receipts. The mPrinter can print receipts, but it can also print more complex text such as a Sudoku board and a doodle.
The printer connects to a computer using either a USB cable or WiFi, with the USB option being the cheaper of the two. There's also an Android and iPhone app that lets you print on the go. Muldowney has reached his fundraising goal on Kickstarter which means that the mPrinter will be available for purchase sooner rather than later. The world may one day soon be a paperless place, but that doesn't mean there's no room for designs like the mPrinter.
The printer connects to a computer using either a USB cable or WiFi, with the USB option being the cheaper of the two. There's also an Android and iPhone app that lets you print on the go. Muldowney has reached his fundraising goal on Kickstarter which means that the mPrinter will be available for purchase sooner rather than later. The world may one day soon be a paperless place, but that doesn't mean there's no room for designs like the mPrinter.
Trend Themes
1. Thermal Printers for Personal Use - Personal thermal printers are becoming more prevalent, offering wider-ranging use cases beyond printing receipts.
2. Open Source Hardware - Open source designs for hardware can reduce manufacturing costs and allow for greater customization and innovation for personal printers.
3. Mobile Printing - Printing from mobile devices is becoming increasingly convenient and accessible, creating opportunities for personal thermal printer manufacturers to create more versatile and mobile-friendly printers.
Industry Implications
1. Retail Technology - Developing more affordable and user-friendly personal thermal printers can disrupt the retail technology industry by allowing for more versatile printing solutions beyond receipt printing.
2. Consumer Electronics - Personal thermal printers can be a disruptive innovation in the consumer electronics industry by offering a unique and niche product for consumers who value traditional printing and customization options in their digital age.
3. Mobile App Development - The rise of mobile printing opportunities can create potential partnerships and revenue streams for mobile app development companies interested in integrating personal thermal printing functionality into their apps.
2
Score
Popularity
Activity
Freshness
