SMART Podium ID422w offers users 40 per cent more interactive workspace

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates - June 30, 2009: SMART Technologies has announced the launch of SMART Podium ID422w (formerly Sympodium™), the latest addition to SMART's line of interactive pen displays, which includes the ID350 and the ID370. With 40 per cent more interactive workspace than the ID370, the ID422w is the company's first widescreen interactive pen display.

High-definition resolution, a 16:9 aspect ratio and 22" (56 cm) display combine to deliver sharp image quality and exceptional performance. The ID422w is ideal for educators and business professionals who want to add interactivity to lessons or presentations in large boardrooms, auditoriums and classrooms. It connects to a computer and a projector, and outputs everything done on the pen display to a large screen so audiences can see. Users write directly on the screen with the pen, and save and share materials using SMART Notebook software, helping them add visual impact to lessons or presentations.

SMART Podium ID422w has a wide variety of features, including an aspect ratio that is compatible with widescreen laptop and desktop computer monitors, preventing any letter-boxing or distortion. It has an intuitive, easy-to-learn interface for confident presenting and lesson delivery. Installation is simple and maintenance is low. A battery-free, tethered pen enables users to write in digital ink over displayed content, and the tether ensures the pen remains attached. The screen only recognizes input from the pen, so users can rest their hand on the screen in a natural writing position. The SMART Podium ID422w integrates seamlessly with other SMART products, including the SMART Board™ interactive whiteboard, and ships with SMART Notebook software.

"Interactive pen displays are an easy way to add interactivity to any meeting room, classroom or auditorium," said Nancy Knowlton, SMART's CEO. "SMART Podium ID422w continues SMART's tradition of excellence in interactive displays by providing more workspace, a clear image and intuitive use for long-term value for our customers."

Jeevan Bhingarkar, Director, iMark Distribution, SMART's authorised Middle East distributor, said, "SMART's interactive pen displays have always been in high demand in the region given its range of features and broad functionality, and likewise we expect the SMART Podium ID422w, which offers additional workspace and new user-friendly features, to create major interest in the market." 

Features

Widescreen - 16:9 aspect ratio provides 40 percent more workspace than SMART Podium ID370, a 4:3 interactive pen display

High-definition image - Resolution is compatible with laptop or desktop monitors

Adjustable tilt-stand - For comfortable writing angle

Save and share notes - Save and e-mail notes to participants directly from the ID422w

Low maintenance - Virtually maintenance free

Battery-free, tethered pen - Enables users to control computer with pen and write over any application in digital ink. No batteries to replace, and the tether ensures pen remains attached.

Easy-access control buttons - Allow users to turn the display on, change pen color, adjust display properties, switch from mouse to pen mode and launch the onscreen keyboard and floating tools

Scaling options and support - Supports 16:10 and 4:3 resolutions with flexible scaling options; connects to computer and projector by either DVI/HDMI or VGA

SMART product integration - Seamless integration with other SMART products; ships with SMART Notebook software

Pricing

The SMART Podium ID422w will be available in the Middle East at a retail price of US$3,559. For more information, specifications and a list of authorized SMART resellers, visit www.smarttech.com.

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About SMART 
When SMART Technologies introduced the touch-sensitive SMART Board interactive whiteboard in 1991, the company began a tradition of creating innovative, easy-to-use products that has earned it worldwide recognition and trust. That tradition has elevated SMART to the position of global leader in the interactive whiteboard product category and resulted in a strategic alliance with Intel Corporation. SMART's ever-expanding line of powerful technology solutions has put collaboration and learning at the fingertips of millions of people.

For more information, please contact:
Orient Planet PR & Marketing Communications
P.O. Box 23345, Dubai UAE
Tel : +971 4 3988901
Fax : +971 4 3988941
Email : info@orientplanet.com      
Website: www.orientplanet.com 

© 2009 SMART Technologies ULC. Sympodium, SMART Board, smarttech and the SMART logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of SMART Technologies ULC in the U.S. and/or other countries. All other third-party company names and products are for identification purposes only and may be trademarks of their respective owners.

© Press Release 2009