Ask HN: USB-to-WiFi print server for old printers – do you want it?

I'm thinking on making a crowdfunding campaign for the western audience for a proper, modern print server device which allows to:

    * Convert your old USB printer (or MFP) into Wi-Fi printer/MFP
    * Print and scan without drivers from Windows/macOS/Linux, as well as iOS/Android
    * Use your old printer with any modern PC, Mac or smartphone, even if the driver is obsolete and doesn't work on current OS versions

I've spend the last 3 years making and improving the underlying CUPS printing stack, SANE scanning engine, and open-source printer drivers, along with the device. It was selling mostly in ex-CIS countries, only some have been sold to EU, US, Canada, Africa.

In the EU, there are companies which specialize on buying old used printers from the golden era of manufacturing (2004-2012), professionally refurbish them, and sell with the warranty. These older printers are usually much sturdier and cheaper in maintenance than the current models. That's why there's a need for such a device even when the user buys 'new' printer, because many want to print over Wi-Fi.

Is it's the case for the US as well? I've seen different sellers on ebay for older printers, but the idea of buying a used printer doesn't seem to be common at all from what I could see.

This is more or less a preconfigured SBC with CUPS + SANE + AirSane + box86, with all the drivers installed and tested (incl. many proprietary, for x86, which are running under emulation), and many patches to ensure stable and fast operation.

The price would be around $45-60. Used to be cheaper, but due to current RAM prices can't go lower unfortunately.

Do you personally want such a device (or know someone who might want it) and would buy it for this price?

https://litter.catbox.moe/h0qx56.webp