The following are outline overviews of the technology associated with the various boards as well as
some hints and tips on choosing which is best.
Note: In order to gain the best overview and comparisons, the boards should be reviewed side by
side. This can be done at the
DS Group Training Centre run by our sister company
DSIT Ltd. The
centre has the largest collection of interactive whiteboards in one location.
1. The Concept
The interactive whiteboard allows any user to interface with their computer from the boards
position. The board is connected to the computer usually by serial or USB cable and the
computer's screen image is projected back onto the board via a separate data video projector
also connected to the computer.
Using either their finger or a special stylus, the user can activate and control their computer via
the board. The IWB software will also have additional features and functions such as allowing
the user to annotate over other programmes, use a whiteboard facility, interact with other
systems and so - on.
2. The Technology
Interactive Whiteboard technology is divided into 3 main areas.
These boards have a hard surface with an electromagnetic grid behind. The user has either
an active (contains a battery) or passive (no battery) 'stylus' pen which is used to control
the computer software.
These boards tend to be generally more durable and are better as projection screens with
less reflective shine, however they will only work with the correct input device.
Advantages: Durability; speed and accuracy, user control of board (via stylus)
Disadvantages:
Requirement for stylus (batteries with some);
These boards have an electromagnetic grid behind only they are also covered by a thin
'plastic feel' membrane. The user does not require any specific input device and can now
operate the board using their fingers to control the software.
Whilst there are distinct advantages to these systems, users must be aware of issues of
durability and the fact that the board remains 'live' at all time making it susceptible to
accidental initiation during presentations.
Advantages: No stylus required;
Disadvantages: Susceptibility to damage (membrane); 'accidental initiation' (screen always
live); screen can get sticky if not maintained
These systems are available as stand-alone systems for use with existing whiteboards
and flipcharts or ready installed into complete systems.
The principle is based on a scanning unit on one side of the board and a stylus pen which
generates a signal (e.g. ultra sound). The scanning unit monitors the location of the stylus
and calculates by triangulation its position, thus relating to the mouse position on the
computer.
Advantages: Board systems are price competitive; clip- on systems mobile and easy to
use;
Disadvantages: Requirement for stylus with battery; slower pen lag when writing; higher
reflectivity of surfaces (for both board and clip- on systems);
3. Choosing Your Board
There are a large number of boards available each offering different technologies, software
packages and each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Choosing your correct board
can be difficult but should also be taken seriously. Do not judge by brochures and marketing as
many lesser known systems have been found to have excellent and required features.
a. Your Audience
Consider the age of the audience and what your will be teaching. Some software packages
are better suited for education whilst others are aimed at the corporate businesses.
How much interaction is expected from your audience - will they need to get up to use the
boards.
b. Your Subject Matter
How technical is your subject matter or how technical do you want to become? Some
systems allow for a great deal of interaction whilst others perform superbly at a more basic
level.
c. Your Teachers / Trainers
How computer literate are they? Some systems have a very high content and demand high
computer literacy from its users. Time to learn the boards features and capabilities may be
limited.
d. Hardware Issues
Not all boards will allow the surface to be used as a normal dry marker board - how
important is this if replacing standard whiteboards?
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