Using non-SMART tablets with SMART Notebook/SMART Board

[Tim Haag]

I recently read a post about using a Wacom tablet with the SMART Board.

And a teacher wants to know about alternatives to the SMART Slate.

I am never clear on the following from SMART's most recent licensing agreement: 

6. Does a personal license allow me to use Notebook software with an interactive display device
not purchased from SMART?
No. Personal licenses may only be used with non-interactive devices.

[Note: In my position as inst. technology coach, my answer is: 'Stick with SMART products.' to keep firm legal footing. I just don't know if I'm missing some loophole.]

If anyone can clear the muddy waters, that would be great.

Thanks.

th

[Randy Tran]

Hey Tim,

What that messaging means is that the personal licenses you get (from Registering SMART Hardware Products) can only be used alongside SMART Hardware or standalone, but not with another brand of interactive device.

However, there are standalone licenses that are offered that entitle users to use the software with whatever hardware you want.  If you or anybody else reading this is interested, pay a visit to your (nearest/preferred) Authorized SMART Reseller and inquire about purchasing a "Competitive License for Notebook Software".

Hope that clears things up for you.

-Randy

[Tim Haag]

Randy: many thanks. I was pretty sure it was a matter of getting a separate license, but you've definitely cleared things up.

Tim

[Matt Granger]

But if I'm using Notebook on a SMART board, it doesn't matter what slate you use. The slate is controlling the computer. If this meant that you couldn't use another brand slate, then it would also mean that I can't control the computer and interact with Notebook using a wireless mouse or keyboard or iPad either.

I see that you couldn't have one license for Notebook because you bought one board or SMART Wireless Slate, and then use that license with other projectors and other brand slates across the rest of the building on plain screens or whiteboards. That isn't fair to SMART. But if you are using it on a board, you should be able to interact with the computer with any device.

[Tim Haag]

Ooooooh!! Many thanks, Matt. Very helpful.

Tim