6 Summer Updates about Interactive Whiteboards

This summer has been quiet enough in the world of Interactive Whiteboards.  However, there’s been a number of updates that have been sent to me.  As far as I know, these reports are true so if there’s anything that is wrong, please let me know as soon as possible and I’ll fix it.
1. Smartboard have a new IWB
Smartboard have added a new board to the market, which allows teachers to write on them with markers.  Thanks to Liosdoire for this information. There’s more information here.
2. Wizteach Update
WizTeach, the software used on many Interactive Whiteboards, has had an update.  The main improvements are handwriting recognition & integration/interaction with the Qwizdom audience response systems. People can download a free trial by clicking here.  Thanks to Teamboard for this update.
3. New Widescreen Teamboard
Teamboard have released a new widescreen IWB fully installed for €3,300. Teamboards have consistently proved to be one of the best IWBs on the market.  With Smart and Promethean coming out with very similar boards, it’s good to see that Teamboard are pushing the boundaries further again.
4. StarBoard™ V9.3 interactive software release
Hitachi’s release of StarBoard™ V9.3 interactive software offers a more Windows oriented user interface and supports the interactive whiteboard common file format (filename .iwb).  This is a good move for Starboard as their software had been quite difficult to use.  In better news, the StarBoard software updates are available free-of-charge to teachers.  Phone  (01) 8013970 or e-mail: [email protected] for more details.
5. StarBoard Tutorials for NCTE’s Literacy course
Two video tutorials are available to support Teachers using StarBoard interactive software to accompany the NCTE’s ‘Using Interactive Whiteboards to Support Literacy’ course. Select‘Hitachi’ from the NCTE’s online resource area to support the course. You can watch these videos here.
6. Hitachi release a couple of new Interactive Products

Hitachi’s StarBoard Link EZ converts your existing dry?wipe writing board into an interactive whiteboard system. It’s multi?touch capabilities make it easy for teachers and students to use alike.  Expect a review on Anseo.net soon. The general price of €879 seems interesting and might threaten the likes of Mimio and EBeam.
Hitachi also released a new projector – the iPJ-AW250NM interactive ultra-short throw projector turns a wall / any flat surface into an interactive teaching aid. It’s supplied with its own wall-mount bracket and StarBoard interactive software.  Their suggested price is €1997, which is about average for a product like this including installation.