How Do Smartboards Detect Touch?

Smartboards are like digital skins sensing your touch. Just as our skin can feel where it’s being pressed, smartboards utilize different technologies to detect and respond to interactions. From invisible beams of light to electromagnetic stylus detection, here’s how these innovative devices work to enhance interactive experiences.

Infrared (IR) Sensors: Light-Based Detection

Infrared technology relies on invisible beams of IR light emitted across the screen surface:

• How it works: An array of infrared LEDs forms a grid of invisible beams. When your finger or an object touches the screen, it interrupts these beams, and sensors instantly detect the exact location of this interruption.

• Pros:

  • Cost-effective and scalable for large screens.
  • Compatible with any object—fingers, stylus, or even gloves.

• Cons:

  • May have reduced accuracy in bright sunlight or dusty environments.
  • Slightly lower precision compared to advanced technologies.

Capacitive Technology: Electric Field Interaction

Capacitive smartboards detect touch through changes in an electrical field:

• How it works: The board surface has an electrical charge. When you touch the screen with your finger or conductive stylus, it alters this electric field, allowing the board to pinpoint your touch precisely.

• Pros:

  • Highly responsive with smooth multi-touch capability.
  • Sleek and modern design ideal for premium environments.

• Cons:

  • Requires conductive input—cannot use gloves or non-conductive objects.
  • Typically higher cost than IR solutions.

Electromagnetic Resonance (EMR): Precision Stylus Detection

EMR technology focuses specifically on stylus-based interaction:

• How it works: An electromagnetic grid beneath the screen interacts with a specialized stylus containing a coil. This interaction precisely tracks the pen’s location, pressure, and angle.

• Pros:

  • Exceptionally precise, excellent for detailed tasks like drawing or technical design.
  • Includes advanced features like palm rejection and pressure sensitivity.

• Cons:

  • Requires a dedicated stylus, which can be expensive to replace if lost.
  • Not suitable for general finger-based interaction.

Real-world Applications Across Industries

Each touch detection technology is suited to specific use-cases:

• Education/Classrooms:

  • Infrared solutions offer versatility and affordability, allowing students to interact seamlessly during collaborative lessons and activities.

• Corporate/Meeting Rooms:

  • Capacitive touchboards are favored for their responsive performance, ensuring smooth interactions during presentations, brainstorming sessions, and collaborative whiteboarding.

• Design Studios:

  • EMR technology excels in creative and technical environments, where precision drawing and detailed work are essential. Designers appreciate the accuracy and nuanced input EMR provides.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing between these smartboard technologies depends significantly on your industry’s specific needs. For a comprehensive breakdown to help guide your decision, refer to our Smart Whiteboard Buying Guide →.

Ready to Experience the Difference?

Smartboards elevate interactivity, collaboration, and productivity across various professional settings. Whether you’re outfitting a classroom, upgrading your meeting spaces, or enhancing your design studio, there’s a touch technology perfectly suited to your needs.

Curious how it works in practice? Schedule a Demo →