Hitachi Software in the News

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Hitachi Software Announces the Release of StarBoard® Software 4.0 Presentation Software for StarBoard Interactive Products

StarBoard 4.0 contains several new and upgraded features that will replace the ShareWizard Software Suite of interactive presentation software for StarBoard devices

SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, CALIFORNIA, January 22, 2003 — The new software provides many unique tools and features, including an integrated all-in-one Launcher which includes annotating features, PowerPoint presentation, Video Annotations, Firewire (IEEE 1394) Control, Dry-Erase Software, Networking features and much more.

Customizable Interface

The Starboard Software 4.0 user interface is designed to be customizable. This allows for user flexibility as well as convenience. Users can change the size of the toolbar buttons for a better understanding of the functions of each button. The larger toolbar includes a description of each button's function, whereas the smaller toolbar buttons save space and stay out of the presentation spotlight.

Switching between the Mouse control and Pen Annotations has been made easier with the new interface. Users are able to customize the number of tools displayed on the toolbar.

Color Palette

The new StarBoard software gives users the option to choose which annotation tools to place on the color palette. New annotation tools have been added to the color palette, tools such as Roller Pen, Fantasy Color and Stamps. Users also have the option to choose the size of the annotation tool they are using. Pick and choose the color combination to fit your presentation needs.

New Background Feature

StarBoard 4.0 give users the flexibility of choosing a background to annotate on. There are several different categories of backgrounds to choose from. Users have a choice of Musical Score, Graph Paper, Solid Colors and Sports Fields. Users can also import their own personal backgrounds.

Video Annotation and IEEE1394(Firewire) Control

Some of the unique features include the Video Annotation and IEEE1394 (firewire) control. Simply select a Video file from your computer thru the StarBoard application. Once the video file has been selected the software will automatically launch the Video Annotation program. The Video Annotation program can open files that are compatible with DirectX. Users can capture and annotate on top of video images.

The IEEE1394(Firewire) connections allows the users to control their DV Camera thru the StarBoard Software. With a DV Camera users can annotate on real-time videos or pre-recorded videos. Users will also have the basic functions of a DV Camera, such as Play, Rewind, Forward, Slow Motion, etc. Users can also control other AV equipment that has an IEEE1394 interface.

PowerPoint Presentations

The ShareWizard Show program has been integrated in the StarBoard Software 4.0.

As with the Video Annotation Program, you do not need to open the ShareWizard Show program to use it. The program has been made easier; all you need to do is open a PowerPoint Presentation file (.ppt) and the StarBoard Software will do the rest. The software allows full control of the presentation. Users can advance a slide or view a previous slide with just a click of a button.

Favorites

The “Favorites” section allows users to keep frequently used presentation materials in an easy to access location. Users can also add their favorite presentation materials on the Favorite List and keep it there for easy access during future presentation. Presenters will never have to hassle with locating the presentation materials they need again.

Saved Data and Annotation Viewer

All saved annotated data are stored in the “Saved Data” location. Each presentation is saved in a page-by-page format. During a presentation, users can jump to a different page at any given time. User can save their presentation in one of the following file formats; HTML, .jpg, png, and bmp.

The Annotation Viewer provides the option to view a previously saved presentation. Here users can browse previously saved data without opening the entire program. With web access, StarBoard users can access saved data through the network.

Networking Features

The StarBoard Software 4.0 allows the users to have the option to work in a standalone environment or a networking environment.

In the Network, users can share data across the internet or a local intranet. Not only can both environments share the same information, they can also transfer the presentation file between each location. The networking software supports multiple-connections. School districts and business can connect all their branch offices together for a meeting without leaving their own offices. Both Host and Clients can simultaneously annotate on the shared data, leaving no waiting period on either end of the connections.

About Hitachi Software
Founded in 1971, Hitachi Software Engineering is a major global supplier of solutions-oriented IT services, employing over 5,000 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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