'USB Typewriter can be like Kindle for books'

BANGALORE, INDIA: It is an innovation that brings together an old-time machine and latest cutting-edge technological marvels.

The USB Typewriter offers a line of antique typewriters that can double as computer keyboards for PC, Mac, and even the iPad, among other devices. Its Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Kit helps one convert any manual typewriter to USB.

In an exclusive interview with CIOL, its innovator Jack Zylkin talks about his product and what potential it holds out.

For more information on the USB Typewriter, read: A typewriter keyboard for your tablet, seriously

How did you get this innovative idea, especially at a time when typewriters have become absolutely obsolete?

I don't agree that typewriters are obsolete. Even though these machines are 100 years old, they still perform the task they were designed for beautifully. Often, it is better to work with the directness and simplicity of a typewriter, without dealing with the distractions and eye strain of a computer.

The problem is that it is difficult to integrate these analog machines into a digital lifestyle, and so my invention bridges that gap. The USB Typewriter lets the user have the rewarding and elegant experience of typing with ink onto paper, while saving a digital copy of the work to edit, format, spellcheck, email, and so on.

Hopefully, the USB Typewriter will do for typewriters what the Kindle has done for books — digitize them, while preserving the beauty and simplicity of the printed page.

Is the mechanism the same as in archaic typewriters?

Each USB Typewriter is simply a modification of an actual working antique typewriter.  It has all the functions of a regular typewriter, such as typing on paper, except that it also has the ability to work like a USB keyboard for your computer.  Because the original typewriter mechanisms are unchanged, each key has a snappy, satisfying feel that cannot be found on other modern keyboards.

Are you planning to make it compatible with more devices?

The USB Typewriter is compatible with all computers, a great many tablets, and a few Android smartphones.  Basically, any device that supports USB keyboards will work.

If one is interested in getting this USB Typewriter Keyboard, how can s/he place an order or purchase one?

If you want a USB Typewriter, you can buy my DIY conversion kit for $74 USD and make their own.  They can also buy a professionally made USB Typewriter from me for $599-$799 USD.  You can find both options at http://www.usbtypewriter.com/ , or on my Etsy store: usbtypewriter.etsy.com.  They can also e-mail me at jack@usbtypewriter.com.

In which countries is this product available?

It is available in all countries.