HP announced the launch of new compact models of multifunctional devices, HP LaserJet Pro M1132 and HP LaserJet Pro M1212nf, intended for users working from home or small office.

New HP Smart Install Technology allows customers to print in two minutes after connecting the device to a computer. Simply connect the printer via USB cable without using the installation CD, all the necessary software is in the device’s memory.

The new MFP also uses HP Auto-On/Off Technology providing immediate first page out in all modes of the equipment, and minimum power consumption in the “sleep” mode. In the absence of tasks, the technology automatically adjusts the power settings and sets the printer into mode with minimal power consumption. The devices also utilize advanced HP LaserJet toner cartridges, saving up to 35% energy compared with their predecessors.

HP LaserJet Pro M1132 is a solution for home and office use, for those who need fast, reliable device, which has reduced power consumption and delivers effective performance of everyday office printing, copying and scanning tasks. Instant-on Technology reduces power consumption by 50%, and the Instant-on Copy Technology allows you to save four times more electricity. HP Sure Supply Technology makes it easy to find and purchase cartridges for this unit.

LaserJet Pro M1212nf is a compact device for home or small offices, especially for companies dealing with a large number of documents and small working groups of 8-10 users wanting fast and quality results. Print speed is up to 18 A4 ppm, first page out time is 8.5 seconds, thanks to technology Instant-on. LAN connection and fax unit extend the use of devices.

Casio launched a new printer designed exclusively for printing on various kinds of optical drives: CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays, etc. The cost of new item is estimated at $130.

The appearance the printer resembles rather a typewriter than a regular printer. The main body of the device holds a QWERTY keyboard to enter inscriptions, and a small LCD display. It is reported that the process of printing on discs is simple and completely harmless to the recorded data media.

The printer can weite to discs up to 16 lines of text, the resolution of the device is 200 dpi. The built-in memory of the printer contains five fonts and 650 symbols. If necessary, the memory can be extended by special software supplied. In addition, the kit includes a black ribbon, which is sufficient to print labels on 50 disks. The printer is powered by a AA battery and from AC.

Epson has introduced the Epson TM-T58, a cost-effective solution for automation of small retail outlets. As the manufacturer notes, affordable price of printer is combined with durability, which ensures a minimum cost of printer ownership. The device prints at the speed of 100 mm/sec on 58 mm reciept paper. Using a narrow reciept paper allows the owner to reduce the cost of consumables. The printer can load paper rolls of a large diameter as well – up to 83 mm, reducing the time between reciept paper replacement.

High resolution thermal printing (203 dpi) make the Epson TM T58 printer stand out from its competitors. Font scaling function and built-in bar codes provide ample opportunities for receipt design. printer retains the high speed even when receipts contain graphical objects. Compact size os the printer saves desktop space, which is relevant for use in limited area of a small POS. Easy “drop-in” paper loading allows you to quickly and easily handle the device.

Printer Epson TM-T58 is durable and reliable device with the mean time between failure of 180,000 hours. The exit slot that issuing receipts is specifically framed to protec the printing mechanism from moisture, and the lid snap-overlapping with the body protects it from dust. Strong metal mounting the housing cover will serve a long time w ithout a failure even in the hard mode of the use.

One day medicine will no longer need the services of donors. So say scientists working on a system that allows you to “print” (or create or grow) organs and tissues using special printers. A prototype of one of such devices, 3-D Bioplotter, was recently presented at Rapid 2010, in Anaheim, California.

According to Vladimir Mironov, one of the developers from the Medical University of South Carolina, the main goal of scientists working on the project is to learn how to “print” human organs such as liver or kidneys.

Bioplotter equipped with a special nozzle, capable of forming substance at temperatures from -50 to 150 degrees Celsius. The features of the system are impressive: a printer is capable of “printing” calcium phosphate, hydrogels (collagen, fibrin, agarose), and various polymers.

3D-printers similar 3-D Bioplotter are presently used for creating biodegradable materials. With solutions like this, scientists hope to create stem cells in the future.

Movement of the nozzle are controlled by a computer, with special software. The system receives information about the structure to be created, materials and parameters from a special file.

3-D Bioplotter developed by German company envisionTEC and demonstrated in the Rapid 2010 is the fourth generation model that costs 188 thousand dollars.