It is not very often in this forum that I choose to write a whole column on a single piece of technology, not when that technology is a printer - make that a multifunction device. Blackberrys, or iPods yes, imaging devices, not so much. That is going to change because I am smitten with a peripheral: HPs PhotoSmart C8180 All In One.

I have probably shown a few dozen multifunction printers on my show over the years, and I have to tell you, the bar is pretty high when it comes to today’s crop of AIO (all-in-one) devices. Each time I look at a new one I am impressed with the innovations in print technology, price and interface. The manufacturers are constantly challenged to come up with better, less expensive, more innovative technology, and the bar keeps climbing higher.