Magazine

Best Upgraded Hardware

12/21/2012 By:

This high-performance, network-ready projector and interactive pens integrate interactive functionality into one machine without the constraints or expense of an interactive whiteboard. One judge especially admired the easily recognized set of tools and icon representation.

Epson PowerLite 470
Epson America, Inc.
www.epsonbrighterfutures.com

The PowerLite 470 ultra-short-throw projector makes it easy to project large, vibrant images from the shortest distance for maximum impact and flexibility. It can be mounted to the wall with the included mount, making it ideal for use with interactive or standard dry-erase whiteboards. Teachers can share content over the network and IT administrators can manage projectors remotely. Judges recommend this projector for small classrooms. One judge raved over the bright and crisp image quality.

Epson PowerLite 93+
Epson America, Inc.
www.epsonbrighterfutures.com

The Epson PowerLite 93+ offers 2,600 lumens of color and white light output and delivers crisp images with XGA resolution. It also comes equipped with a range of connectivity features, including RJ-45 wired LAN connectivity, as well as HDMI connectivity. Judges found that the projector produced bright, high-quality images. They also remarked upon the excellent sound quality.

The HP Z210/Z220 Small Form Factor (SFF) Workstations deliver high performance and reliability with Xeon processors, ECC memory, professional graphics, enterprise-class storage, and application certification. Judges liked the easy access to the power supply and said the parts are easy to remove if repairs are needed. One judge also remarked upon the ample memory and hard drive space.

Motorola Solutions’ NX9510 Series Integrated Services Platform is ideal for geographically dispersed school districts that want centralized, wireless LAN management. The NX9510 supports over 10,000 access points and up to 4096 sites. Judges called it a great fit for wireless network administration. One judge pointed out the helpful history reports, including traffic reports by user and device type.

Titanium Series Headset
Califone
www.califone.com

The Califone Titanium Series Headset is the first washable headset for easy cleaning. The Headset features rugged ABS plastic construction for durability and safety, ambient noise-reducing earcups to keep students on task, and the option to limit playback volume to 85dB to protect students’ hearing. One judge lauded the sturdiness of the headphones, adding that the “Guaranteed for Life” cord was perfect for elementary school classrooms. The judge also remarked upon the great sound quality.