Understanding walls and anchors

When you open up the packaging of an “i” series SMART Board interactive whiteboard system (for example, 600i3 or 600ix) you find a plastic bag of mounting hardware. Were it not for the installation guide accompanying the product, first-time installers could find this confusing. To complete the installation effectively and be confident that you fully understand the purpose and function of each component, follow these three steps:

Step 1: Identify the type of wall

Are you installing the SMART Board interactive whiteboard on concrete, cinder block, brick or drywall? You can check by touching and knocking on the wall, but if you still aren’t certain, look at the unfinished top of the wall if you have a drop ceiling. If you’re unable to determine the wall type on your own, then you may need to consult an engineer.

Please note that SMART recommends and provides guidance for common wall types, such as concrete, cinder block, brick or metal- or wood-studded walls.

Step 2: Select the appropriate anchor

SMART Board interactive whiteboards come with plastic threaded anchors for mounting on drywall. However, if the mounting wall is concrete, cinder block or brick, you need to use different mounting hardware. For 600i series projectors, other types of wall anchors are included in the package:

ALLIGATOR anchors (AF6) – Designed to hold heavy loads on most wall types. They’re capable of holding up securely even in an unexpected cavity, such as a hollow brick or hollow block. They can also be used in drywall and tile over drywall. The specially formulated polypropylene body flows into and locks up with any undercuts in the hole. As you drive the screw into the anchor, it seals the hole, preventing moisture from entering. Learn more.

SNAPTOGGLE anchors: These are heavy duty hollow-wall anchors for use in walls, ceilings or floors composed of gypsum board, drywall with a steel stud, concrete block or tile over drywall. This anchor comes assembled and is ready for immediate use. The ratcheting strap and locking cap assembly positions the one-piece zinc-plated (or stainless steel) anchoring channel flush against the rear of the wall. The cap slides down the straps to lock flush against the front of the wall. The straps on the outside of the wall are then easily and quickly snapped off by hand flush with the surface of the wall. No additional tools are required. Learn more.

Step 3: Prevent electrical interference

As you install anchors and screws in concrete or cinder blocks, consider electrical conductivity. Installing a SMART Board interactive whiteboard on certain types of concrete or cinder block can result in horizontal digital ink lines appearing jagged. This is caused by low-level electrical conductivity between the metal back board, a mounting bracket, the metal anchors contacting it and the carbon compounds sometimes used in the manufacture of cinder blocks or concrete. To prevent such interference, use the protective nylon washers provided with the installation hardware when mounting the bottom brackets on the wall.