SMART Announces New Rear-Projection Interactive Whiteboard Designed and Priced for Educators
New interactive whiteboard offers value, multimedia integration and flexibility
Calgary, AB --- June 2, 2003 --- SMART Technologies Inc. announces the new low-cost, mobile, easy-to-use Rear Projection SMART Board
2000i interactive whiteboard to meet the needs of computer-using educators. Developed with educators’ input, the 2000i combines the benefits of a large (66"/168 cm diagonal), shadow-free, touch-sensitive display with a height-adjustable design. With an easy-to-turn handle, teachers can lower the screen from teaching height to one that is easily accessible for students of all ages, including those with special needs. With a grant from the SMARTer Kids Foundation, qualifying educational institutions in North America can purchase the 2000i for only US$9,749. The 2000i includes an integrated projector with an extended-life lamp as well as free software upgrades, further lowering the total cost of ownership.
The 2000i is the newest addition to SMART’s family of rear-projection products, and features the superior image quality and precise touch control of new DViT (digital vision touch) technology. With award-winning SMART Board software, teachers can access, control or write over top of any computer application – including Internet resources and CD-ROMs – and save these notes to a single file. Users simply pick up a stylus from the SMART Pen Tray and write over top of any application in electronic ink using either their finger or the stylus. No special tools or training are required to operate the 2000i.
“With the Rear Projection SMART Board 2000i interactive whiteboard, educators can now enjoy the benefits of rear projection at an affordable price,” says Nancy Knowlton, president and co-CEO of SMART. “The 2000i features an installed projector, which not only provides a shadow-free display, but also reduces set-up time and saves valuable space in the classroom.”
“The interactive display features of the 2000i help teachers deliver whole-class instruction that engages students’ attention and improves lesson retention,” says Jean Hugill, grade six teacher at Connaught Community School. “The 2000i’s height-adjustable feature also encourages students to practice active learning, as they are more willing to go to the front of the class to use the interactive whiteboard and share information with their peers.”
Features
Pricing and Availability
The Rear Projection SMART Board 2000i interactive whiteboard will start shipping August 2003. The North American suggested list price is US$12,999. Educational institutions in North America may qualify for a grant worth 25 percent (US$3,250) of the suggested list price through the SMARTer Kids Foundation, reducing their net purchase price to US$9,749.
For additional information, specifications or authorized resellers, visit www.smarttech.com/2000i or call 1.888.42.SMART. For grant inquiries, visit the SMARTer Kids Foundation Web site at www.smarterkids.org or call 403.228.8565.
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Refer to the backgrounder for details about SMART Board interactive whiteboards and DViT technology.
For more information, please contact:
Public Relations
SMART Technologies Inc.
300, 1207 - 11th Avenue SW
Calgary, AB CANADA T3C 0M5
Phone +1.403.802.3337 Fax +1.403.228.2500
pr@smarttech.com
Please note that SMART is written in all capital letters.