I’m seeking a developer to help create a prototype for connecting a thermal printer to a Raspberry Pi and enabling remote printing via Zapier integration. The key requirements for this project are:
1. Select a suitable thermal printer model compatible with 3 1/8" paper. I will cover the cost of the printer. Here are some options: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=thermal+printer+esc+pos+auto+cutter&rh=n%3A15442734011&ref=nb_sb_noss
2. Choose additional hardware (Raspberry Pi or similar) to enable Wi-Fi connectivity for the printer.
3. Identify an existing library that allows sending data to the printer with basic formatting (line breaks, bold text, auto-cutting).
4. Develop software to connect the printer to a home Wi-Fi network.
5. Create a function that allows connecting the thermal printer to a custom Zapier action for remote printing. Details on creating Zapier actions can be found here: https://platform.zapier.com/build/action
Notes:
• This is a prototype aimed at testing among a small group. Focus on functionality over production-readiness.
• An enclosure for the hardware will be built separately, so that is not a requirement for this project.
• We welcome any recommendations to enhance the solution.
The ideal candidate should have experience with Raspberry Pi (or similar single-board computers), thermal printers, and relevant programming languages (Python, Node.js, Java, etc.). Familiarity with ESC/POS commands and Zapier integration is a plus.
Appendix: There are some existing libraries available by people who have previously hacked various thermal printer models, such as:
Java
• esc-pos-java - A Java library for controlling ESC/POS thermal printers. (https://github.com/stefanosbou/esc-pos-java)
Python
• python-escpos - A Python library to manipulate ESC/POS printers, supporting text, images, barcodes, and QR codes. (https://github.com/python-escpos/python-escpos)
Dart/Flutter
• esc_pos_printer - A Dart library to print receipts on ESC/POS thermal WiFi/Ethernet printers from Flutter or Dart apps. (https://pub.dev/packages/esc_pos_printer)
• esc_pos_bluetooth - Companion library for Bluetooth ESC/POS printers. (https://pub.dev/packages/esc_pos_bluetooth)
Android
• esc-pos-android - An Android library wrapper for ESC/POS printers, supporting Bluetooth and various printing functions like text styling, barcodes, etc. (https://github.com/lukevp/ESC-POS-.NET)
Examples:
• Python Example: https://forums.raspberrypi.com/viewtopic.php?t=360857
• Node.js Example: https://github.com/lukevp/ESC-POS-.NET
• Java Example: https://github.com/stefanosbou/esc-pos-java
Please include in your proposal:
• Your recommended thermal printer model and additional hardware
• The programming language and libraries you plan to use
• A high-level outline of your approach to the project
• Estimated timeline and cost for the project
Feel free to reach out with any questions or clarifications needed.