OpenPrinter Review
Executive TL;DR:
- OpenPrinter aims to create an open-source printer.
- Forum voices express concerns about complexity and patents.
- Project is currently in pre-crowdfunding stage.
The Internet’s Verdict: 70% Hyped, 30% Skeptical
Introduction to OpenPrinter
OpenPrinter is a project that seeks to create an open-source printer, allowing users to avoid proprietary ink cartridges and subscriptions.
Forum Voices
Some users have expressed concerns about the project’s feasibility, citing the complexity of inkjet printing and the need for specialized expertise.
I think the top-ranking comment about complexity is off base: they’re not inventing inkjet printing from scratch. It’s basically a bunch of existing modules in a new package, presumably with the promise that you will not need to buy subscriptions or DRMed ink cartridges.
Others have pointed out the potential issues with yellow tracking dots and the project’s licensing terms.
Unless I’m missing something using this in a commercial application would be a license violation: Open Printer is distributed under the Creative Commons BY-NC-SA 4.0 license.
Conclusion
While the OpenPrinter project has generated significant interest, it remains to be seen whether it can overcome the technical and legal challenges ahead.
Focus Keyword: Open Printer
