How to Choose a Whiteboard?

How to Choose a Whiteboard?

What is a Whiteboard?

A whiteboard is a surface made of plastic or tempered glass that can be written on with special whiteboard markers and erased. It is commonly used for classroom teaching, meeting discussions, and personal notes. Whiteboards started becoming popular around 1994, before which blackboards were more common.

In Taiwan, due to its slang name being the same as a drug, it is often referred to as "non-blackboard".

Just as chalk is used on blackboards, whiteboard markers must be used on whiteboards.

Whiteboards are usually more expensive than blackboards, but compared to the chalk dust left behind on blackboards, they are easier to clean without creating dust. Moreover, the contrast of the images or text written on the board is relatively higher. However, whiteboards tend to reflect light more, making it harder for those sitting farther away to see clearly, which is why most schools still use blackboards.

The surface of a whiteboard can be used not only for writing but has also been widely adopted in the furniture, decoration, and construction industries. The enamel material used for whiteboards is fired at high temperatures, providing wear resistance and excellent stain resistance, ensuring that the surface does not fade or discolor over time. The boards are also 0.4mm thick steel plates, allowing them to attract magnetic materials, making them both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

A whiteboard typically consists of a white metal sheet that serves as a writing surface. Its function is similar to that of a blackboard, as it is a tool that can be written on and erased repeatedly. Whiteboards are generally used for teaching, meeting discussions, or personal and family notes. Whiteboards must be written on with special whiteboard markers, which contain chemicals that can produce an odor.

Types of Whiteboards

• Classification by properties: single-sided whiteboard, double-sided whiteboard
• Material classification: imported board surface; domestic board surface
• Usage methods: wall-mounted, mobile with a stand
• Materials: metal paint, enamel, PET, glass, wood

Plastic Whiteboards

Whiteboards are generally more expensive than blackboards; however, compared to the chalk dust left behind on blackboards, whiteboards are easier to wipe clean without creating dust particles. Additionally, the images or text written on the board are relatively bright and clear. Nonetheless, due to their reflective quality, individuals further from the board may find it harder to see, which is why most schools still use blackboards.

Glass Whiteboards

Glass whiteboards offer a modern aesthetic, are bright and attractive, provide a smooth writing surface, are easy to wipe clean without leaving marks, and have no lifespan limitations. Therefore, in recent years, they have been widely used in non-educational settings such as corporate meeting rooms, offices, business boards, bulletin boards, children's doodling, and interior design. However, glass whiteboards tend to reflect light and are not suitable for educational use.

Anti-Glare Glass Whiteboards

These boards are designed to prevent glare. They reduce the residue of dust and fingerprints, have better scratch resistance than glossy glass, and minimize eye fatigue and discomfort caused by glare for those viewing from a distance. They also provide good performance for writing with whiteboard markers and erasing. Magnetic functionality can be added for attaching materials, making them versatile tech products.

Installation of Whiteboards

Instructions for installing whiteboards: Fixed magnetic whiteboards generally have three installation methods:

1. Direct Hanging Method: Use nails to attach the board directly to the wall and then hang the whiteboard.
   Advantages: Easy to install
   Disadvantages: Prone to warping, can fall off easily
2. Drilling Method: Drill holes in the frame of the whiteboard and use long nails to attach it to the wall.
   Advantages: Simple to install
   Disadvantages: Can damage the frame and detracts from aesthetics
3. Invisible Installation Method: Fix L-shaped mounting nails to the wall, then slide the whiteboard onto the specified area of the nails and secure it.
   Advantages: Sturdy, does not warp, and does not damage the frame
   Disadvantages: Complicated to install, time-consuming, and high installation costs

Maintenance of Whiteboards

• When first using the whiteboard, remember to remove the protective film attached to the board surface.
• Use quality whiteboard markers for writing; otherwise, it may not erase cleanly.
• Use a soft, clean whiteboard eraser (if the eraser has dirt on it, wash it with water and let it dry before using again) to avoid damaging the board surface when erasing.
• After some time of use, if the board shows marks or dust accumulation, this is normal. Do not wipe the board directly with a cloth (as cloths can contain debris or hard materials that may scratch the surface); instead, use a whiteboard cleaner with a soft cloth or paper towel. The method is to spray the cleaner on the board surface first, then wipe with a soft, clean cloth or a lint-free paper towel.
• Do not lean other objects against the board surface to avoid damaging it!

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