New PLUS Whiteboards Emphasize Integration With Networks and Mobile Devices
Plus, a maker of presentation tools, unveiled two new additions to its lineup of electronic whiteboards at InfoComm 2012. The new products recognize the growing importance of both network integration and compatibility with mobile devices.
- N-20 Copyboard. The N-20 Copyboard boasts a unique network function that allows users to connect it to a network with an Ethernet cable. Lecture notes written on the board can be saved as image files, either using the N-20's internal memory or to an FTP server. Users can then access the lecture notes through any network-connected computer. And any files saved to the N-20’s internal memory are accessible even if the N-20 is in standby mode. As for integration with mobile devices, Plus' MTG Pocket app allows participants to scan the board using their iPhones, iPod Touches, or iPads and then preview and save the image to their devices' memory. Similar functionality will soon be available for Android smartphones. The app also allows users to record audio and video, with all scanned notes and recordings automatically organized in a folder on the mobile device.
- C-20 CaptureBoard. The surface of the C-20 CaptureBoard has the characteristics of both a projection screen and a dry-erase board. An image can be projected on its screen with minimal glare, even as class participants add comments and notes by writing on top or alongside the projected image. When the C-20 is connected to a Windows-based computer via a USB cable, users can save the projected image and written notes together as a single image file (JPG, PNG, or PDF). The C-20 also has the ability to print the combined image directly to an optional on-board color printer. When the C-20 is not being used to display a projected image, it can also serve as an electronic copyboard. Users can save handwritten notes directly to a USB memory stick, a USB-connected PC or Mac computer, or print out notes on the optional on-board printer. When utilized as a copyboard, the C-20 shares many of the same features as the N-20 Copyboard, including the ability to work with the MTG Pocket app.
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Andrew Barbour is the former executive editor of Campus Technology.