AmbiCom on Thursday announced its Wireless Printer Kit. Built around Bluetooth technology developed by Microtune Inc., the Wireless Printer Kit enables Mac OS X and Windows users to replace the USB cables on a variety of inkjet printers from Canon, Epson, HP and Lexmark.
The Wireless Printer Kit comprises two USB 1.1 adapters that work without any new software or driver installation, along with power supply and an A/B connector converter. One adapter is connected to the computer, the other to the printer. AmbiCom claims the kit works up to 100 feet in most home and office environments, and up to 200 feet in “open environments,” with multiple system support.
A product compatibility matrix available for download from AmbiCom’s Web site shows more than three dozen printers on the list with various levels of compatibility for Mac OS X v10.2 “Jaguar” and various flavors of Windows. AmbiCom notes that compatibility may not be limited to the products they list on their chart — they also note that support is not provided for inkjet printers with built-in memory card slots.
The Wireless Printer Kit carries a suggested retail price of US$69.99. AmbiCom noted that the kit will be available initially through CompUSA — it begins shipping next week. A $39.99 adapter will be available separately to enable other computers to communicate with the printer.
The kit bundle includes two adaptors with built-in software, power supply and A/B connector converter. A $39.99 PC adaptor will also be available for users who want to enable numerous systems.