His group is developing microencapsulated particles about the size of the toner granules used in copy machines. Each of these particles contains still smaller particles. The Hearst Corp. The process their company is developing depends on microencapsulated particles like those shown in Figure 1. In May 1999, E Ink fielded test signs like the one shown in Figure 2. Retailers can update these signs remotely via a wireless pager or Internet-based software.
Electronic ink is made up of millions of tiny microcapsules.
Inside each microcapsule is a mixture of dye and white particles. The patterns of colors in the microcapsule can be controlled to create letters and words. Retailers can change the text on Immedia signs remotely, via Internet-based software or wireless pager. The company claims that you can update the message every 10 seconds, while consuming less energy than a household light bulb. E Ink Corp. Not only is e-ink paper potentially reusable when you ' re finished using a sheet of paper, simply run it through the printer again to print something else but it's also inexpensive.