SMART unveils widescreen interactive whiteboard system

NEW DELHI, INDIA: SMART Technologies has announced the SMART Board 685ix interactive whiteboard system -- a high-definition, high-performance collaboration tool that virtually eliminates shadows, glare and projector light in the eyes.

The fully integrated system comprises a SMART Board 685 interactive whiteboard and the new wall-mounted, ultra-short-throw UX60 widescreen projector with a 16:10 aspect ratio and WXGA resolution (1280x800).

As more and more developers of multimedia and video content shift to a widescreen aspect ratio, the projector’s widescreen format provide a future-proofed investment for school districts, post-secondary institutions and businesses. With high-definition image quality and easy access to other peripheral devices from the front of the room, the SMART Board 685ix interactive whiteboard system delivers a top-of-the-line interactive whiteboard experience.

The UX60 projector uses Texas Instrument’s (TI) DLP Brilliant Color technology high-contrast engine to produce stunning color performance and vibrant, crystal-clear images. The DLP technology virtually eliminates color decay and maintains color quality even after years of use.

The ultra-short-throw projector mounts on the wall directly above the SMART Board 685 interactive whiteboard and extends from the wall just 16 inches (41 cm), minimizing its footprint. The system comes equipped with an extended control panel that provides controls for power, source selection, volume and an integrated USB hub. With the wire management bundle’s integrated VGA, USB and audio connection, easy connectivity is provided for a PC or Mac. The projector can be network-enabled for easy maintenance.

Technical support can perform a task or run diagnostics remotely, reducing time and labor costs. Unlike projectors using LCD technology, the UX60 projector does not contain a filter or require monthly cleaning.

“The SMART Board 685ix creates an immersive, unparalleled interactive whiteboard experience,” says Alexandra Dunn, speech language pathologist for a school district in Ontario, Canada. “Its features, including minimal shadowing and direct USB access, will not only ensure more time on task, but also promote inclusion and meaningful educational and social participation for students with special skills.”

"Globally, SMART Board interactive whiteboards are the most widely adopted interactive whiteboards in both the education and business sectors," says Nancy Knowlton, SMART’s CEO. "The introduction of the SMART Board 685ix interactive whiteboard system demonstrates our commitment to innovation and to providing our customers with a high-quality, user-friendly interactive whiteboard experience."

Features
Minimal footprint – Extends from the wall just 16 inches (41 cms)
Widescreen – 87-inch (221-cm) diagonal, providing 20 percent more workspace than a SMART Board 680 interactive whiteboard (the world’s most popular interactive whiteboard)
Crisp image – UX60 projector uses TI’s Brilliant Color technology with high-contrast DLP engine
Aspect ratio – 16:10
Network-enabled – Can be network-enabled for tech support and diagnostics
Lumens – 2,000 lumens
Contrast ratio – 2000:1
Extended control panel – Controls for power, source selection, volume control and an integrated USB hub
Wire management bundle – USB, VGA and Audio inputs provided
Filter-free – Filter-free for low maintenance
No color decay – TI’s DLP engine is virtually immune to color decay
Long lamp life – 3,000 hours in standard mode, 4,000 hours in economy mode
Theft resistant – A Kensington lock slot and a projector padlock loop
SMART product integration – Integrates with SMART Notebook, SMART Meeting Pro, SMART Hub SE and SMART Hub PE.

Pricing and availability
The SMART Board 685ix interactive whiteboard system will be available October 2009 at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price in India for Rs. 288,373.51. The suggested education list price is INR 206,678.95. The system is available from SMART authorized resellers.