FAQ

Q: Will my USB Typewriter still write on paper?
A: Yes! In fact, you can write on paper while recording your keystrokes to an SD card -- that way you will have both a hard copy and a soft copy. You don't even need to be connected to a computer while you type.

Q: Does the USB Typewriter have modern keys such as Backspace, Escape, F1-F12, Control, Alt, and so on?
A: Yes! The USB Typewriter not only has built-in Control, Alt, Cmd, and Backspace keys, but also a "Fn" key which, when held down, accesses secondary functions for all the keys, so that the typewriter keyboard supports a full complement of modern functions.

Q: Will the USB Typewriter work with my native language?
A: Yes. The USB Typewriter responds to your computer's language settings, and automatically uses the characters and symbols that are needed for that language.

Q: Where is the "Enter" key?
A: The "Enter" key, sometimes called the "Carriage Return" key, is actually activated by the typewriter's carriage return! Every time you make a new line on your typewriter's roller, an "Enter" command is sent. Unfortunately, this slick feature may not be available to you if you are using the do-it-yourself kit.

Q: Will the USB Typewriter work with my tablet?
A: The USB Typewriter is designed so that tablet computers such as the iPad can act as virtual "paper" when placed on the platen. Most tablets have the so-called "USB-OTG" feature that allows them to connect to computer keyboards using a USB cable. However, if your phone, tablet, or e-reader does not support USB-OTG, you can instead connect to them using the Bluetooth feature that is now standard on all my USB Typewriters.  The Bluetooth feature is also an optional upgrade for my USB Typewriter Conversion Kit.

Q: Will the USB Typewriter work with my smartphone?
A: Yes, the USB Typewriter will work with all smartphones, since it has the ability to connect over Bluetooth. This feature is available on my do-it-yourself kits as well.

Q: Will the USB Typewriter work with my laptop?
A: Yes! It will work in addition to the keyboard already on the laptop. You might consider getting a monitor and mouse for your laptop for better ergonomics.

Q: Will the USB Typewriter connect directly to my monitor (without a computer)?
No, you must connect it to a computer, tablet, smartphone, or stick-computer (such as the Raspberry Pi). You can, however, use the USB Typewriter without a computer *or* monitor, by using the built-in SD card memory to save your work as you type on paper.

Q: Where do I get ribbons?  What if the typewriter breaks or needs maintenance?
A: I include fresh ribbons with each order over $200. "Universal" GR-4 Ribbons can be found on Amazon.com or at your local office supply store.

Q: Will the conversion kit work with my specific typewriter?
A:  The conversion kit is designed to work on the majority of portable manual typewriters. It will also work on some desktop typewriters. For a list of compatible and incompatible typewriters, click here.

Q: Will the kit work on an IBM Selectric?
A: Unfortunately, no -- but you can check out this very cool project to turn a Selectric into a printer: http://hackaday.com/2012/06/13/turning-an-ibm-selectric-into-a-printer/