Users can now connect two computers to one system
CALGARY, Alberta --- June 19, 2007 --- SMART Technologies Inc. announces that the SMART Board™ 600i interactive whiteboard system now offers even more flexibility, thanks to an optional firmware upgrade. This upgrade, available to SMART customers at no charge, enables control of the existing RS232 port in the system’s built-in projector. Users can now connect two computers to the 600i system and with a single touch on the SMART Board interactive whiteboard screen, they can switch seamlessly between them. For example, if a 600i has a dedicated computer connected to it, a guest laptop can now be connected, and content can be easily displayed on and controlled from the SMART Board interactive whiteboard. Alternatively, administrators can use the RS232 port to manage the SMART Board 600i interactive whiteboard system from a remote location, controlling such functions as video inputs, volume and powering off, and monitoring lamp hours. An administrator can also use this feature with a software application to shut down multiple systems. SMART customers can download the upgrade by visiting www.smarttech.com/600ifirmware.
The 600i interactive whiteboard system began shipping in January 2007. It has quickly become a sought-after classroom and meeting-room solution, with thousands of units already delivered and thousands more on order. The 600i is an integrated solution, combining a front-projection SMART Board interactive whiteboard, a Unifi™ 35 projector with a built-in audio system, video-source switching and ScratchPad, the projector’s own interactive whiteboarding application. Writing and erasing tools are built into ScratchPad, so users can operate the interactive whiteboard with or without a computer.
“The SMART Board 600i interactive whiteboard system is very popular with customers who want an all-in-one solution that’s easy to use, affordable and easy to install,” says Nancy Knowlton, SMART’s CEO. “This firmware upgrade adds functionality, giving even better value to users.”
Pricing and availability
The optional firmware upgrade is available now, at no cost to current SMART Board 600i interactive whiteboard system customers, by visiting www.smarttech.com/600ifirmware. Customers will be instructed to download the firmware update and store it on their computer. The computer should then be plugged into the Unifi 35 projector through the USB port. Running the update will complete the firmware upgrade. The entire process takes just a few minutes.
