Smart Technologies has launched its third generation Smart Board 600i interactive whiteboard system.

The new product line offers two screen formats - widescreen (16:10 aspect ratio) and standard (4:3 aspect ratio). Each model in the improved 600i line combines an award-winning Smart Board 600 series interactive whiteboard and one of two new boom-mounted, short-throw projectors, both of which offer longer bulb life and better image quality than previous generations, said a company official.

The 4:3 model integrates a UF55 projector, and the 16:10 integrates a UF55w. The widescreen model increases active whiteboarding space by 20 percent over the standard. Measuring 87" (221 cm) on the diagonal, the 16:10 makes it compatible with today’s wide-format computer resolutions and content.

Any Smart Board 680, 660, 580 and 560 interactive whiteboard can be retrofitted with a UF55, and the 685 model can be retrofitted with a UF55w.

The new 600i system builds on the success of the two previous 600i generations.

Network functionality has been added so the system can now be remotely diagnosed and managed, saving users time and reducing costs. It offers a bright, crisp display with true color representation, making all video or still images clearly visible, even from the back of the room.

The redesigned projector and boom reduce shadows and glare compared to typical ceiling- or table-mounted projectors, better engaging students and meeting room participants while limiting the amount of light cast toward the teacher or presenter.

The extended control panel enables users to plug in peripheral devices such as document cameras, DVD players, laptops, VCRs and other audiovisual equipment. The panel also provides walk-up-and-use control from a single source.

Total cost of ownership is lower with a projector bulb that lasts 3,000 hours in standard mode and 4,000 hours in economy mode, an improvement of 50 percent and 33 percent, respectively, over the previous generation’s lamp.

The new Smart Board 685i and 680i interactive whiteboard systems will be introduced at BETT 2009 in London, England, from January 14 to 17.
 
“This year, we have seen tremendous growth in the global adoption of our products, both in the classroom and the meeting room,” said Smart’s CEO Nancy Knowlton.

“These new systems take our product offering to the next level in meeting evolving customer needs and delivering unparalleled ease of use.”

“We have been witnessing impressive demand for the Smart Board 600i system across the Middle East, and the launch of the third generation of the product with enhanced features and functionality is certain to enhance its appeal among customers in the region,” said director, Intmark Distribution, Smart’s authorised Middle East distributor, Jeevan Bhingarkar. – TradeArabia News Service