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Xerox Claims Printable Electronics Breakthrough

Posted by samzenpus on from the shocker-approved dept.

adeelarshad82 writes "Xerox announced a new silver ink that it's calling a breakthrough in printable electronics, a leading-edge concept that's generated a lot of discussion but few actual products to date. Why? Precisely because of the issues that Xerox claims to have addressed. In concept, printable electronics is just what it sounds like: using a printer, basically an inkjet, to print electronic circuits. If this can be done reliably, electronic devices can be printed for far less than current methods cost. One can also print the devices on a variety of new materials. The possibilities range from printing on flexible plastic, to paper and cardboard, to fabric."

4 of 166 comments (clear)

  1. Interesting by Paradyme · · Score: 5, Interesting

    So, how long till people start downloading designs to print them out at home?

    1. Re:Interesting by ColdWetDog · · Score: 5, Interesting

      Well that would be a great system, especially for DIY and prototype circuits. No more etch and hassling with masks. The FA is pretty light on details (which appears to be official Slashdot policy these days) and so I don't understand where the 'components' come from. Do you just glue your IC down to the paper / plastic / textile base or does this create the components de novo (rather unlikely for complicated things like an IC, but conceivable for resistors, caps, etc.)?

      Might change the definition of an 'underwire bra' significantly.

      --
      Faster! Faster! Faster would be better!
  2. Wait for it by Nerdfest · · Score: 5, Funny

    I can't wait to have a working circuit printed on as a tattoo, with the components inserted as piercings. I'm thinkin' 2 stage amp.

  3. The actual Xerox link by NewToNix · · Score: 5, Informative

    A couple of interesting links to (short) videos about the process there also. http://www.xerox.com/go/xrx/template/inv_rel_newsroom.jsp?ed_name=NR_2009Oct27_Xerox_Scientists_Develop_Silver_Ink&app=Newsroom&view=newsrelease&format=article&Xcntry=USA&Xlang=en_US