In a modern classroom various kinds of equipments are used for
effective teaching. One such device is interactive whiteboard. Along with uses
in classes, the device is also commonly used for meetings and conferences. There
are different technologies on which these boards are based – electromagnetic,
optical and infrared are the most common variants found. Each has its own
advantages and disadvantages. Here is a comparison of the three varieties:
·
Infrared Interactive whiteboard – In these whiteboards, infrared technology is used
on the boards so that any kind of movements with the finger, pen or stylus can
be tracked. With the pressing of the screen with the stylus or finger, the
infrared light is perceived. The installed software manipulates the information
so that the finger or stylus movements are located.
·
Optical Interactive whiteboard – In this kind of interactive whiteboard, infrared
light is used along with a triangulation algorithm so that the location of the
marker can be understood on the board. The main surface of the whiteboard can
be made of any material in this case.
·
Electromagnetic Interactive whiteboard – There is a complete network of wires at the back
of the interactive whiteboard and these are responsible for generating the
electrical signals. For writing on this board, a special kind of marker with
coil is used. Even when the marker is passive, there are changes in the
electrical field for the coil. No false signal is therefore created on this
whiteboard.
On comparing the three common kinds of interactive
whiteboards, it has been seen that the infrared interactive whiteboard seems to
be the best of the lot. Though the lifespan of the whiteboard might not be as
high as optical or electromagnetic whiteboards, the other features are highly
attractive. Install an infrared interactive whiteboard for the class and see
how interesting and interactive the class becomes.
