The SMART Podium 518 and 524 interactive pen displays are said to provide the functionality of a SMART Board interactive whiteboard, optimised for individual use. These enable business users and educators to turn any work area or classroom into an interactive collaboration space.
The new widescreen, high-definition (HD) series features SMART’s patented DViT (Digital Vision Touch) technology, enabling digital writing and an interactive experience. Both the 518 and 524 models are high-bandwidth digital content protection (HDCP) compliant to ensure safe transfer of files. Because the tethered pen is the point of contact, users can rest their hand on the interactive display while writing notes or interacting with content while the Smooth Tilt Stand enables users to adjust the angle for a more natural writing experience. The SMART Podium 500 series will begin shipping globally by the end of October 2011.
The 518 and 524 models offer an interactive screen size of 18.5″ (46.9 cm) and 24″ (60.9 cm), respectively, on the diagonal. The 500 series features SMART Meeting Pro software which enables business users to collaborate with both local and remote participants, when used in conjunction with SMART Bridgit conferencing software.
Users can connect to a computer and projector to share digital content with a group before saving their notes directly into commonly used software applications such as Microsoft Office and AutoCad. Users can also connect a guest laptop directly to SMART Podium using the SMART GoWire auto-launch cable to run SMART Meeting Pro software.
The 500 series featuring SMART Notebook collaborative learning software enables educators to use dynamic interactive lessons.
“As customers around the world continue to adopt interactive technology products in their meeting rooms and classrooms, we recognise the need to provide comprehensive solutions that meet the specific needs of both customer groups,” says Linda Thomas, VP for products at SMART Technologies. “By offering two new models of the SMART Podium interactive pen displays that feature either SMART Meeting Pro software or SMART Notebook software, we can provide our business and education users with the tools they need to enhance interactivity, engage with their audience and collaborate efficiently and effectively.”