A
new generation of tough touch-sensitive Interactive Display is entering the
market. They use hardened glass, which is tough enough to stand up to any
ordinary level of wear and tear. This makes them a more attractive choice for
schools and other environments where they will be exposed to occasional rough
treatment.
Image Quality
Interactive displays offer a brighter image with a richer color range than most
projectors. Depending on the lighting conditions in your space, this may be a
very important point. However, it's still important to control the ambient
light levels as much as possible. Staring at an over-illuminated screen for
long can cause eye strain, and students or meeting attendees can miss important
information if there is too much glare.
Image Size
Interactive whiteboards are available in larger sizes for a lower cost, but
they rely on projectors to fill the screen with an image. There are short-throw
HD projectors that are capable of producing a great picture even at a short
distance, but they are not without setbacks of their own. Besides the
maintenance issues mentioned above, projectors must be calibrated for focus and
screen alignment. If teachers are not trained to use them, this can lead to
input errors when the interactive features are used.
How it Will Be Used
When you are choosing between an interactive display and a projector, you also
need to consider how it will be used. How far from the screen will the audience
be sitting? In a small classroom or meeting room, each person can sit a
comfortable distance from an interactive display. The screen itself does not
need to be very large.
In a larger classroom or lecture room, students may be sitting some distance
from the screen. With a smaller interactive display, it may be difficult to see
fine details or text. In these cases, an interactive whiteboard is a better
choice.
Interactivity may be an essential part of the curriculum, or it could be a
secondary consideration. If it is essential, then you need a device that will
support the intended interactions.
Up-Front Cost
Although some buyers would put this as the top consideration, it is really
secondary to the points mentioned above. There is no point saving money on a
purchase that would cost more in the long term and may not be suitable for your
needs.
Interactive displays are getting cheaper, which is a trend that is bound to
continue. This is bringing them into the same price range as interactive
whiteboards.
Conclusion
As technology continues to improve, prices will continue to drop and better
options may emerge onto the market. It's important to take a critical look at
your organization's requirements and choose an interactive display or projector
that meets them. Also factor in the costs of running the device for several
years. You will find it a lot easier to make a solid decision after you have
taken these considerations into account.
