During the process of developing personal computers, ITRI actively pursued the advancement of computer peripherals, aiming to seamlessly integrate upstream and downstream product lines in the information industry. To achieve this goal, ITRI’s efforts were focused on the development of disk drives and printers, both requiring expertise in fields such as optics, electronics, machinery, materials, and chemicals. Let’s explore the significant milestones achieved by ITRI in the development of disk drives and printers.

In 1988, ITRI successfully developed a 3.5-inch 100MB hard disk drive, which played a pivotal role in enhancing Taiwan’s manufacturing capabilities for hard disk components. ITRI ensured that its key components, including voice coil motors (VCMs) responsible for driving the head movement, were entirely made in Taiwan. This encompassed the sourcing of materials, manufacturing of parts, and the overall design of those crucial components.

ITRI’s dedication to innovation extended to printers as well. In 1984, the Institute constructed a prototype of a 24-dot matrix printer. Subsequently, in 1988, ITRI successfully developed a laser printer, followed by the introduction of the second generation the following year. These achievements solidified Taiwan’s expertise in integrating various technologies for printer development. In 1992, ITRI rolled out a four-in-one laser printer, which combined the functions of printing, faxing, scanning, and photocopying. In 1996, ITRI built a color thermal transfer printer, which incorporated key technologies such as paper feeding system design, color registration and positioning technology, thermal printhead control technology, driver and decoder design, halftone technology, and color reproductions. The development of this printer significantly contributed to the widespread adoption of multimedia products and successfully accelerated office automation across Taiwan.