Digital Podium Procurement Guide: Parameters, Interfaces and Acceptance Checklist | Qtenboard QM Series

The digital platform is not an ordinary lecture table, and the procurement should be evaluated by the teaching control center.

In the smart classroom project, the digital platform is often purchased as a "lecture table with a screen. Several general requirements are written in the bidding documents, such as "support touch control", "support screen projection" and "bring computer". during bid evaluation, suppliers report their respective configurations, and the purchaser cannot compare them. When the equipment arrived, installed and debugged, the problem began to be exposed: the screen was too small for teachers to see the courseware clearly; The interface is not enough, the video booth and the recording and broadcasting system cannot be connected; The position of the platform is not suitable, blocking the channel or affecting the students' line of sight; The internal heat dissipation space of the platform is insufficient, and the computer and stereo become unstable after a period of time.

Digital podium usually integrates touch screen, computer, microphone, audio, control and external interface into a podium position, which is used to connect interactive whiteboard, projection, video booth and recording system. Its core value is not "having a screen", but turning the platform into a teaching control center, allowing teachers to complete courseware display, blackboard writing annotation, screen projection interaction, audio and video switching and recording and broadcasting control in one position. Purchases should be evaluated by Instructional Control Center, not just screen size and computer configuration.

What do you think about 1. core parameters?

The key to parameter writing is "measurable, checkable, and acceptable". Taking Qtenboard QM series digital platform as an example, its parameter configuration can be used as a reference for the purchaser to write bidding requirements and bid evaluation comparison. The following by size and structure, touch and display, system and performance, audio and video and lighting four parts.

Size and structure

QM series offers four models: QM-2233JT, QM-3233JT, QM-4333JT and QM-5533JT. The corresponding screen size options are 22 inches plus 19 inches, 32 inches plus 24 inches, 43 inches plus 22 inches, 55 inches plus 32 inches. The screen is configured as a front display screen plus a main touch screen, the podium material is made of metal, enterprise-class technology. When purchasing, it is necessary to confirm the total width, total height and depth of the podium, the size and position of the touch screen, the position of the computer host, audio and microphone, the position and quantity of the external interface, and the movement and installation method of the podium.

The screen size should be selected to match the classroom type. Ordinary classrooms and training classrooms can choose the configuration of 22 inches plus 19 inches or 32 inches plus 24 inches. It is recommended to choose 43 inches plus 22 inches or 55 inches plus 32 inches for amphitheatre, lecture hall and large conference room to ensure that teachers can see the contents of the screen clearly in different positions.

Touch and Display

The resolution of the main screen is full HD 1920 × 1080, the touch technology is 20-point capacitive touch, brightness 300 cd/m, contrast 3000:1 or 4500:1, visual angle 178/178, and response time 6ms. These parameters directly determine the teacher's writing and operating experience. The 20-point capacitive touch supports simultaneous operation by multiple people, which is suitable for classroom interaction and student demonstration on stage. The 178-degree viewing angle means that the teacher can see the screen clearly when standing on the side of the podium, and does not need to adjust the position frequently.

It is recommended to write the resolution, number of touch points, brightness, contrast and visual angle into the bidding parameters during procurement, and require the supplier to provide specifications or on-site demonstration. Touch experience can not only look at parameters, but also test writing delay, multi-touch and anti-touch effects on site.

System and Performance

The main touch screen supports Windows 10, Windows 11 and Pro versions, and the front display supports Android 9.0, 10.0, 11.0, 14.0 and 16.0 (optional). The dual system design allows teachers to run teaching software and courseware in a Windows environment, and to quickly screen, browse resources or use lightweight applications in a Android environment. When purchasing, you need to confirm the system version, memory and storage configuration of the main screen and front screen, and whether you need OPS or an external computer.

The network connection supports Wi-Fi 2.4G and 5G, LAN wired network, Bluetooth 5.0 or 6.0. The wireless screen projection function supports the mainstream screen projection protocol, which is convenient for teachers and students to put the terminal content on the podium screen. When purchasing, the screen agreement, delay performance and concurrent quantity should be confirmed and tested in the actual network environment of the school.

Audio Video and Lighting

Digital platform built-in speakers, support audio and video centralized control, unified management of classroom and conference room equipment. Built-in reading lamp or desktop lamp, convenient for teachers to view materials or write in low light environment. The audio and video control function supports signal source switching, volume adjustment and equipment management, and is suitable for classrooms that need to frequently switch courseware, video and recording.

When purchasing, it is necessary to confirm the microphone type and pickup range, audio power and volume control mode, video switching and signal source management capability, whether recording and broadcasting, remote classroom or teaching platform are supported, and whether equipment management and remote operation and maintenance are supported. For recording and broadcasting classrooms and remote classroom scenarios, audio and video control capabilities are especially important. It is recommended to require suppliers to provide docking test solutions.

How to check the 2. interface

The interface is the key to connecting the digital podium to external devices. If the interface is not enough or the type does not match, the video booth, recording and broadcasting system, teaching computer, projection and whiteboard will not be connected, or additional connection will be required, which will affect both stability and beauty.

The QM Series digital podium offers interfaces such as USB, HDMI, IN-Audio, and microphone input. When purchasing, it is necessary to confirm the number, location and type of interfaces to meet the existing equipment and future expansion needs of the classroom. The following table lists the main items of interface reconciliation.

The interface check shall be completed at the drawing stage and shall be rechecked after the physical object arrives. It is recommended that the supplier be required to provide interface layout diagrams and connection diagrams to clarify the location, purpose and connection objects of each interface. If the school already has teaching computers, video booths, recording and broadcasting systems or sound reinforcement equipment, the model and interface requirements shall be written into the bidding documents, and the suppliers shall be required to make adaptation confirmation according to the actual equipment.

How to adapt the 3. to the interactive whiteboard, projection, video booth and recording and broadcasting system

The digital podium is not a separate device, but part of the teaching system. Before purchasing, it must be confirmed that it is compatible with the interactive whiteboard, projection, video booth, recording and broadcasting system and the existing platform of the school. Otherwise, it is easy to see the situation that "the equipment can be turned on but cannot be connected" after arrival.

Adapt to the interactive whiteboard

It is necessary to confirm the model, size and interface of the interactive whiteboard, whether the digital platform touch can directly control the whiteboard, whether the courseware, video and teaching software are compatible, and whether drivers, special software or login accounts need to be installed. If the school already has an interactive whiteboard for unified procurement, the model and configuration shall be written into the bidding documents, and the supplier shall be required to make adaptation confirmation according to the actual model.

Fit with projection

It is necessary to confirm the model, interface and installation method of the projection, the connection method between the digital platform and the projection, whether the projection picture can be displayed on the touch screen of the platform, and the connection method between the projection and the teaching computer and the recording and broadcasting system. When upgrading the digital platform in the projection classroom, special attention should be paid to signal switching and resolution matching to avoid picture stretching or signal instability.

Adapt to video booth

It is necessary to confirm the model, interface and output mode of the video booth, whether the booth screen can be displayed on the platform touch screen, whether the booth screen can be annotated, saved or recorded, and the connection mode of the booth with the teaching computer and the recording and broadcasting system. In the scene of laboratory and training room, the frequency of use of video booth is very high. It is suggested that the adaptation requirements of booth should be listed separately in the bidding documents, and the actual connection test should be done during acceptance.

Adapt to recording and broadcasting system

It is necessary to confirm the model of the recording and broadcasting system, the configuration of the camera and microphone, whether the digital platform screen can enter the recording and broadcasting, how to collect the teacher's voice and classroom sound, and how to configure the recording, live broadcast and content management. The recording and broadcasting classroom recommends that the digital platform be evaluated as part of the recording and broadcasting system, and the supplier is required to provide interface matching instructions and docking test plans, rather than just confirming that the equipment can work alone.

How to verify 4. site conditions

Site conditions determine whether the digital podium can be installed smoothly and used stably for a long time. Complete a site survey before the tender, can avoid a large number of construction phase changes and wrangling.

Classroom layout and podium position

It is necessary to confirm the width and viewing distance of the classroom, the position of the platform and the movement line of the teacher's operation, whether the platform affects the passage or the students' line of sight, and the distance between the platform and the interactive whiteboard and projection. The digital platform is higher and wider than the ordinary lecture table, and the improper installation position will block the students' view or affect the teachers' walking. It is suggested that the position of the platform should be marked on the ground with adhesive tape during the survey, so as to actually feel the effect of teachers' operation and students' viewing.

Power supply and cable

It is necessary to confirm the power supply requirements of the digital platform, OPS and peripherals, the location of the power socket and the cable path, whether the power supply is convenient for power failure and maintenance, and whether new lines or sockets need to be modified. The QM series supports AC 110-240V universal voltage, but the socket location and cable path still need to be confirmed on site. Special attention should be paid to the position relationship between the internal power supply and the external socket of the podium to avoid exposing the cable or being pressed by the podium.

Network and screen projection

It is necessary to confirm the network access and screen display requirements, teaching software, recording and broadcasting and remote classroom requirements, and whether new network lines or equipment are required. Wi-Fi 2.4G and 5G, LAN and Bluetooth are supported, but the school network environment may have additional requirements for screen projection protocol, port and certification. It is recommended to test screen projection, teaching software and recording and broadcasting functions in the actual network environment.

Heat dissipation and maintenance space

It is necessary to confirm the heat dissipation requirements of the computer, audio and interface in the podium, whether the maintenance space in the podium is reserved, and whether the parts can be easily checked, cleaned and replaced. The digital platform integrates computer, audio, control and interface modules. Insufficient heat dissipation space will cause equipment instability, and insufficient maintenance space will increase later maintenance costs.

How to check the 5. acceptance

Acceptance cannot only check whether the equipment can be started. Arrival acceptance, installation acceptance and teaching process acceptance three levels, covering equipment, installation and teaching use, each item should have a clear acceptance content and test methods.

Arrival acceptance

Check the packaging and appearance status, check the product model, quantity and serial number, count the touch screen, computer, audio, microphone and cable and other accessories, and confirm that the random instructions and project delivery materials are complete. QM series has a variety of models and screen size configurations. When arriving, check that the model is consistent with the contract to avoid wrong configuration.

Installation acceptance

Check the position of the platform, classroom layout and teachers' operating lines, whether the power supply, network and cables are normal, whether the heat dissipation and maintenance space meet the requirements, and whether the interactive whiteboard, projection, video booth and recording and broadcasting system are normal. The height of the platform, the angle of the screen and the position of the interface should be confirmed on site to ensure the comfort of teachers.

acceptance of teaching process

Arrange a complete teaching process test: whether the teacher can successfully complete the courseware, screen casting and recording and broadcasting switching, whether the digital platform touch control, sound and microphone are normal, whether the interactive whiteboard, projection, video booth and recording and broadcasting system are normal, and whether the teacher can independently complete the complete operation of a class. It is suggested to complete the teacher training synchronously, and leave the training record, operation card and repair process description.

6. Supplier Response and Contract Attachments

The Purchaser's requirements are binding only if they are translated into documents that can be verified. It is suggested that suppliers should be required to provide product parameter table and model data, digital platform and peripheral adaptation instructions, installation manual and site investigation requirements, heat dissipation and maintenance space instructions, safety and environmental protection data, as well as quality assurance, spare parts and maintenance plan at the bidding stage. The scope of services for installation, training and acceptance shall also be clearly stated.

The contract annex is recommended to include at least the following documents: digital platform and peripheral configuration list, technical parameter response and deviation table, site investigation and installation condition confirmation table, heat dissipation and maintenance space requirements, installation training and acceptance service scope, warranty spare parts and maintenance responsibility table. Get these documents ready, bid evaluation has basis, acceptance has standards, and there will be much less wrangling in the later period.

In the scoring method, the response degree of technical parameters, touch and display measured performance, interface and expansion capability, peripheral adaptation scheme, installation scheme and site investigation capability, total cost of ownership, after-sales service and spare parts response, similar project cases, samples or on-site demonstrations can be taken as the main scoring dimensions. This will not only screen out bids that do not meet the parameters, but also distinguish the quality of the scheme between qualified suppliers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a digital podium and an ordinary podium? The digital podium integrates a touch screen, a computer, a microphone, a sound, a control and an external interface on the basis of an ordinary lecture table, and can be used as a teaching control center. Ordinary podiums only provide the function of placing objects and supporting teachers, and do not involve electronic equipment and systems.

What is the difference between a digital podium and an interactive whiteboard? The interactive whiteboard is based on wall display and touch interaction, and is usually installed in the front of the classroom; the digital podium is the control center of the teacher's operation position, with a small screen size, but integrated computer, audio and video and interface control. The two can be used together, with a digital podium controlling interactive whiteboards and other devices.

Does the digital podium support touch control, screen projection and recording and broadcasting? QM series supports 20-point capacitive touch control and wireless screen projection. Whether recording and broadcasting are supported depends on the connected recording and broadcasting system and software configuration. The recording and broadcasting interface, picture access and audio collection method shall be confirmed before procurement.

How to adapt the digital platform to the interactive whiteboard, projection, video booth and recording and broadcasting system? It is necessary to confirm the model, interface, system and compatibility of each equipment, and require the supplier to provide adaptation instructions and conduct docking test during acceptance. The video and broadcast classroom recommended that the digital podium be evaluated as part of the video and broadcast system.

What are the site conditions that need to be confirmed for digital podium procurement? Classroom layout and podium location, power socket location and cable path, network access and screen projection requirements, internal heat dissipation and maintenance space of the podium, and the distance between the podium and the whiteboard and projection.

What should be checked and accepted in the procurement of digital platform? Check the model, quantity, accessories and data after the arrival acceptance; Check the position, power supply, network and heat dissipation of the platform after the installation acceptance; Check whether the courseware, screen casting, annotation, recording and broadcasting and switching are normal after the teaching process acceptance test. It is recommended to add a quantitative acceptance table to clarify the eligibility criteria.

How to write the bidding parameters of digital platform? Write the screen size, resolution, touch points, brightness, contrast, system version, interface type and quantity, network connection, audio and video control, material, certification, etc. into measurable and acceptable terms, and set asterisk items and scoring items.

Does the digital podium need OPS or external computer? QM series main touch screen supports Windows system, and front display screen supports Android system. Whether OPS or external computer is needed depends on the requirements of teaching software and platform. Prior to procurement, the existing software operating environment and interface requirements shall be confirmed.

Conclusion

When procuring digital podiums, it is not enough to consider the equipment itself; you must also verify the touchscreen, computer, audio and video systems, interfaces, peripheral compatibility, on-site conditions, and acceptance criteria. The Education Bureau and schools should include specifications, interfaces, adaptation requirements, and acceptance criteria in procurement documents; allocate budget for software licensing and platform integration costs; and use the technical specification response and deviation table as an evaluation tool. The digital platform is the teaching control center. Only when it is selected, installed and used can teachers' daily teaching be smooth. It is much cheaper to advance these tasks to the bidding stage than to rework or add items after the equipment arrives.