Hitachi Software in the News

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Hitachi Software Releases Version 5.1 Software for Interactive Communication Systems

Release 5.1 adds new level of usability and flexibility to interactive presentation

SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO , CALIFORNIA, April 7, 2003 — Hitachi Software Engineering America's (HISAL) Interactive Communications Group today announced that it would soon begin shipping Release 5.1 of StarBoard Software for the StarBoard family of interactive communication systems. The new products supported by this release include the new StarTablet T-18SX 18 “ TFT interactive display and the F-60 and F-75 StarBoard interactive whiteboards. Also supported are previously released R-70 Rear Projection Display, StarBoard whiteboards and the EM Panel displays.

The StarBoard software permits presenters to run computer applications and add free-hand annotations to the graphics using simple pen type devices and dry-erase markers. When running applications, the pen devices act just like a mouse. In annotation mode, the pen acts like a writing instrument annotating the presentation with text, lines, geometric objects, and highlights. The annotated data can be saved for later review and distributed in a variety of formats including .html, .jpg, bmp, .png, etc

Key modules in the new software release provide the following capability:

• Icon-only on screen displays for fast, easy learning
• Interactive communications software to allow conferencing among up to 42 sites or persons to simultaneously share data and annotate displayed images visible to all across LAN or WAN environments
• Single click switching between mouse mode and annotation mode
• A wide range of background designs; e.g. sports fields
• Rollers, line types, and highlighters in pre-set and variable colors and widths
• Comprehensive stamp library
• Character recognition software to run applications like MS Word and Excel with freehand writing
• Object recognition software that converts freehand geometric objects, such as circles and triangles, to smooth drafting quality geometric objects
• Object management software to Undo, Redo, Cut, Copy, Paste, color, adjust line width, etc.
• Annotated presentation thumbnail review capability to quickly scan through files of marked up presentations without opening the document files
• Live video capture that can be stopped at any stage, enlarged and annotated
• A spotlight tool which permits honing in on a specific area of the display, masking outside areas, and enlarging and moving the spotlighted features
• Continuous scrolling through the pages of the annotated presentation
• Off-line presentation preparation mode
• Complete on-line help system

“Our goal is to provide the most technically advanced interactive systems at prices that provide the best value in the marketplace,” commented Ralph Zak, director, Interactive Communications Group of HISAL. “The key to the usability of our systems is in the software. As a worldwide leader in software technology, Hitachi Software Engineering will continue to provide intuitive, easy-to-master products for educators and business people to add a new dimension to the quality of presentations and improve the efficiency of training sessions, meetings and video conferences.”

About Hitachi Software
Founded in 1971, Hitachi Software Engineering is a major global supplier of solutions-oriented IT services, employing over 8,000 people worldwide with current sales of over $1.6 billion annually. Hitachi Software provides services using technology to enhance its customers' businesses through value-added professional services, consulting and support; and state-of-the-art multi-media presentation & conferencing systems.

For specifications and more information about the Interactive Communications Group for Hitachi Software's StarBoard products, visit www.hitachi-soft.com, or call 888-615-9600.

All trademarks, trade names, service marks, and logos referenced herein belong to their respective companies.

 

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