Q&A for How to Use a Smartboard

Typically, all you have to do is connect your SmartBoard to your laptop via a USB cable.

In order to display your computer's screen on the SmartBoard, make sure that your computer is set to "mirror display."

The SmartBoard connects to the computer via USB and then to an LCD projector. Make sure the projector is turned on. The SmartBoard should automatically be powered on if it is plugged into the computer and if the projector is turned on.

To write on a SmartBoard, simply use the provided stylus as if it were a pencil.

By selecting "Convert handwriting to type" under File.

Yes, a Smartboard can be used much like a giant touch screen. You would work the PowerPoint presentation the same as you would on your computer.

Press both of the buttons at the same time. The buttons are located by all the pens in the middle.

You need to buy cords. It is your decision to buy markers.

The Smartboard software works for Windows 7 and up, and Mac OS X 10.10 and up.

Yes. Many colleges offer classes for Smartboard use. There are also online courses you could possibly check out as well.

All you have to do is open your normal DVD player and connect the computer to the Smartboard.

Just tap the screen with your finger, it will automatically turn on. You can also run your finger gently across the board.

You can use Smartboard Notebook to access other programs on the smartboard, like Photoshop. Just click the drop-down box and choose which program you want. You'll already have to have it installed on your computer, of course. You can have the kids work on the poster in class too by letting them use the pens to draw and write.

You can adjust the size of the page by tapping the Full Screen icon in the corner, or dragging your fingers across the corners of the page.

No, you need to be connected to a computer to activate it. You'll also need to have internet access for many smartboard functions.

The mouse button refers to the mouse on your computer. There are a few different models of smartboard available, so if yours doesn't look exactly like the one in the article, keep your operating manual on hand while you're learning! Most of the programs are the same from smartboard to smartboard.

Pick up the pen and press it against the screen. You'll be able to write just like you would with a regular whiteboard.

Yes! You can access other programs via the dropdown box in the Smartboard Notebook on your computer.

No, it needs to be connected to a functional computer. You'll also need internet for most functions.

Open Windows Media Player or any other DVD player and insert the disc you want to watch.

Yes, you do. The projector works with the SmartBoard software to show the images you want the students to learn.

You can use one of the pens or your finger. The SmartBoard is touch sensitive, as are the pens.

If you have an Elmo, it can automatically show your workbook pages on the Smartboard. If you do not have an Elmo, then you will need to scan each workbook page and them convert the scanned pages into either PDF or Microsoft Office pages, then hook your computer to your Smartboard to display them.