Almost everyone who owns a DeskWriter (or DeskJet) printer from Hewlett Packard has complained about the ink, which is soluble in water. Although few people have specifically had problems with dunking their printouts, most people worry about the possibility. A number of solutions appeared in Usenet this week.

The most common solution mentioned is to photocopy the page in question, although this is not always convenient. Another solution is to use a fixative spray that can be found at art supply stores. The most ironic feature of the DeskWriter/DeskJet is the excellent envelope handling capabilities, because an envelope is likely to be exposed to water. We have found that a strip of clear Scotch tape protects the address and makes the envelope look slightly classier. Of course, the ideal solution would be for HP to come up with non-water soluble ink, and the latest rumors say it might do so by July.

Information from:
Adam C. Engst -- TidBITS editor
Steve Hix -- fiddler@concertina.Sun.COM
Chet Wood -- chet@Advansoft.COM
George J. Jefferson -- jeffe@eniac.seas.upenn.edu
Saiid Paryavi -- paryavi@harris.cis.ksu.edu