Large format panels with a stand-alone system on a chip (SOC) and sets of video or smart projectors that employ a tablet or other devices with drivers for user input are two different types of interactive whiteboard technologies. Frequently, infrared or resistive touch, magnetic or ultrasonic pens are used as modes of operation.

With the widespread digitization of writing and character recognition, keyboards are no longer nearly as necessary. Easy-to-use graphs, polls, and charts are frequently included in interactive whiteboard software. These can include virtual representations of common classroom instruments like protractors, rulers, and compasses. They can offer teachers interactive lesson plans for their pupils and play a variety of media.