Here is something really cool and unique: a conversion kit to turn a typewriter into a USB keyboard. Warning: you will need to solder electronics to complete this youself.
It comes with two blank PCBs and all electronic parts (unassembled), so that you can have the knowledge and satisfaction that come with wiring up this fun electronics project by yourself. The boards consist of roughly 20 through-hole components and 30 through-hole metal contacts (which you will learn how to make). It should take an experienced solderer roughly 3 or 4 hrs to assemble the electronics, and another 3 hrs to install them on the typewriter.
This is something which could be a great conversation piece and would be really cool for a writer. Finding old typewriters really isn’t that difficult as you can typically find them at thrift stores and garage sales. However, if you don’t want to do the conversion yourself, you could always purchase a preassembled unit (although they are a bit pricey).
Regardless, this is a really cool novelty and would be a great gift idea for a writer or journalist.
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Still yearn for the ‘good old days?’
But Not for the ribbon and paper?
http://www.etsy.com/shop/usbtypewriter?ref=seller_info
If you don’t like the price. and can solder – you can build your own from an old cast off typewriter.
http://www.pcmech.com/article/convert-a-typewriter-into-a-usb-keyboard/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed:+pcmech/articles+(PCMech.com)
For you younger readers, (born after 1980) a ‘typewriter’ is a mechanical device into which the user places paper and a supply of ink. The ink is usually in the form of an ink saturated ribbon. Then, by energetically striking keys, impressions are left on the paper that resemble writing. It must also be noted, these devices do not have a ‘delete’ key, and the backspace key does NOT remove previously created letters, and you would be well advised to keep on hand a supply of special ink (Liquid Paper) or en error correcting film until you become sufficient;y proficient in its use.
With regards to the mouse, however; I’d stick with a modern one. The old-fashioned organic types tend to eat too much and leave droppings everywhere. In addition, the cord is too short, and the socket is not USB Compliant.
Next article:
Upgrading from a slide rule to an electronic calculator.
This will help you navigate a world where there are More than Three Significant Figures, and the “power of ten” has nor relevance.