Xerox scientists hail magic bullet: silver ink

Xerox scientists claim to have developed the "silver bullet" that will enable the low cost, easy printing of electronic components and transform the way we use computers.

Metallic silver ink that may one day see a computer printed on you pocket rather than carried in it is being developed at Xerox.

A hospital gown that shows up-to-the-second patient records at a glance, displays on drug bottles that tell you if you've taken your medicine - or not.

Says Paul Smith, lab manager for printable electronics research at Xerox Research Center Canada: "This is not a replacement for silicon.

"But it will expand and open up the opportunity for new devices and electronic applications where silicon electronics is too expensive, too heavy or too complex to use."

"For example, large screens could become so lightweight and robust that they could be easily transported and would be much more affordable.

"We may see PDA's becoming more light, thin and affordable... wearable electronics and displays, automatic supermarket check-outs and large signage in retail outlets that are easily updated by the minute.

"Or how about large-scale image displays that will allow you to watch the Super Bowl life size?"

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