When we first looked at the Wipad we were impressed with the unit’s simple set-up right out of the box. We were able to connect the iPad wirelessly to an HDMI source without the nagging issue of network security like Apple TV and Bonjour. Here is a great article about the Bonjour issue.
After more testing and demonstration we discovered an alarming problem. All of the major functions for both the transmitter and receiver were facilitated through the tiny remote provided in the package. The trouble that we have in our classroom environment is the overwhelming presence of remote controls. We have remotes for Projectors, DVD Players, and Document Cameras. Another remote being introduced in the classroom is not ideal, we do not want to get in the habit of confusing our instructors with more remotes. We want to be able to consolidate remotes in future refresh of technology. We would be adding to an already growing problem.
If you disregard your thoughts on excess remotes and really look into this product you will realize that the remote is really the central part of the Wipad’s operability. If you lose the remote, you basically lose all functionality with the unit itself. The chances of a tiny remote being lost is significant especially in a classroom environment with multiple instructors. A $500 option without the assistance of infrastructure is a an exciting concept, but a $99 option for an Apple TV and a little help with our friends in networking sounds more appealing. If I were to suggest improvements, my first thought would be to have a redundancy system if the remote is missing or lost or in some cases stolen. A redundancy system would be as simple as including function buttons on the receiver and transmitters themselves. Another option would be to have at least one extra remote or even the option of buying another remote (which the website didn’t even appear to have an extra remote for sale.)
Overall I thought the Wipad was good for a simple wireless HDMI connection to a display without the limits of network security and the Bonjour problems. The base package is a good start but lacks the crucial Apple AV adapter that links the iPad to the receiver on the case. For $470 you get the Apple AV adapter and a smattering of cables that are overpriced. If you choose the Wipad I would go with the base package and order the Apple AV adapter directly from Apple, it will save you about 40 bucks.
Recent Comments