An innovative inkjet printer called The Open Printer is set to revolutionize the printing industry. Developed by Paris-based Open Tools, this printer offers a unique approach to printing by utilizing a continuous roll of paper and automatic page cutting features. What sets this printer apart is its complete openness — except for the off-the-shelf print heads and ink cartridges, everything else is open source.
Open Tools’ team behind The Open Printer, Léonard Hartmann, Nicolas Schurando, and Laurent Berthuel, designed this printer with the intention of providing a sustainable and repairable option for makers, artists, and anyone frustrated with disposable hardware. The printer is constructed using standard mechanical components and modular parts, making it easy to assemble, customize, and repair. It allows users to print on various paper formats and choose between black or color cartridges that can be conveniently refilled.
One of the key features of The Open Printer is its commitment to avoiding proprietary restrictions commonly found in commercial printers. Unlike traditional printer manufacturers who often use DRM to lock users into specific cartridges, this printer offers freedom and flexibility. By using Hewlett-Packard ink cartridges with built-in print heads, The Open Printer ensures compatibility with third-party refills or compatible cartridges.
The printer’s hardware is driven by an STMicroelectronics STM32 microcontroller, connected to a Raspberry Pi Zero W single-board computer that acts as the system’s central processing unit. With an on-board display and jog-wheel for local interaction, the printer can be connected to a PC via USB, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth. Additionally, it supports direct file printing from a USB Mass Storage Device and offers broad compatibility with various operating systems.
Users have the option to load paper in pre-cut sheets of different sizes or as a continuous roll. The printer’s built-in cutter knife ensures that each page from the roll is cut to the desired size automatically. Open Tools has made a commitment to openness by licensing all files under Creative Commons, allowing users to repair, upgrade, and contribute improvements to their printers.
For those interested in The Open Printer, more details can be found on the project’s Crowd Supply campaign page. The printer is a testament to the growing trend of open-source hardware in the printing industry, offering a sustainable and customizable alternative to traditional closed systems. With its emphasis on user freedom and repairability, The Open Printer is poised to make a significant impact on how printers are designed and used in the future.
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