Electronic copyboards
Electronic copyboards look just like regular whiteboards but have the ability to print out
what is drawn after the presentation. The copyboard prints onto A4 paper that can be
handed out for all members. Alternately, A4 sheets can easily be photocopied and handed
out. The built-in printer sits just under the copyboard as illustrated in the picture
above.
Most copyboards have an optional pack that allows them to be connected to computers. The
packs include cables and computer software. The whiteboard images can be downloaded to the
computer and printed, saved, changed, faxed and emailed all over the world. This works by
loading the copyboard software onto the computer. The copyboard then connects into one of
the computers serial ports with the supplied cable. Everything that is drawn on the
whiteboard can then transferred to the computer. Unlike interactive whiteboards,
where there are many manufacturers, most copyboards sold in the UK are Panasonic Panaboard
copyboards.
Majority of copyboards have a built-on printer that allows instant
printing of what has been drawn. Like fax machines, these come
in two types. Thermal printers print onto thermal fax paper.
Paper printers print onto plain paper using ink cartridges that have
to be replaced when they run out. Plain paper is obviously a
nicer printout, but you can always photocopy the thermal printout for
handouts.
Some copyboards allow you to attach a normal laser or
inkjet printer to print out notes rather than use the built-in
printer. You don't need to have a computer attached to do this,
although most require an optional printer board at additional cost.
This has advantages as laser printers are very cheap to run when
producing large amounts of handout notes from the image on the
copyboard.
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