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I wouldn't convert a pristine model, but now have a battered Royal that I'll be wiring up to my iMac. For details:
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I've been very intrigued by this product for a while now. Maybe it's not true, but I thought typing on a platen without paper will damage it, so I guess it's alright for a machine that you're not worried about or one that already has a ruined platen.
Then I also wondered if there would be any effect on the tablet from the vibration created by a typewriter.
I can't wait to read about your impressions of this system once you've been using it for a while. How difficult was it to install? Would you recommend it? Is it practical, or just a novelty?
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To be honest, I think it will always be a novelty.
I've had a look at couple of the installation guides and it seems straightforward with little or no damage to the typewriter required.
I do have an iPad but am guessing that vibration would be a problem, so am planning to rig it to an iMac.
As far as protecting the platen I suppose a simple fix would be to cover it in a roll of paper.
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In two minds here. I love the fact that someone has carried the idea through to reality, but wonder about the real range of applications. Basically my view is; if you like it, why not. Had I far more spare cash than I do, I'd probably set one up just to see the effect.
One practical use would be in the teaching of touch typing on manual machines, rigged to a computer program designed to teach it. Any one following through on this a making a fortune might remember where the iddea came from! - just kidding.
I believe I've seen 'Steampunk' keyboards so rigged.
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USB typewriters. Ugh. I agree with Steve. I don't see them as being anything but a toyish little novelty.