Most researchers will tell you that printable computer components are not designed to replace silicon. Initially, we will see these printable devices used to give intelligence to everyday objects. They will be integrated into clothes, food labels and toys. One of the most exciting applications for printable electronics is creating a wallpaper that doubles as a television screen or computer monitor. MIT also plans to build a digital camera into a a business card.
Plastic does offer some benefits over silicon.
Silicon is rigid, while plastic chips are flexible, allowing it to be placed on a variety of substrates. The problem is that, despite great hopes to create a plastic Pentium, printed inorganic transistors are still about 100 times slower than conventional transistors found on silicon chips. Basically, printable computers represent the merging of conventional printing technologies with computer chip fabrication to produce cheaper, more flexible components. While many obstacles remain in its development, early products are ready to enter the market, such as disposable cell phones and computerized clothing. The next decade may bring us the ability to print out our own electronic devices and sophisticated computers.