Frequently Asked Questions
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- The Boogie Board tablet is like an Etch-a-Sketch, right?
- Why does the contrast on the writing surface change based on the lighting conditions?
- If the tablet is left in a completely dark environment, will the image on it be lost?
- How do I turn the Boogie Board tablet on and off?
- Why is the battery non-replaceable?
- What instruments can I use to write on the LCD writing surface?
- The screen flashes after I push the erase button. Is it broken?
- Can I erase just a portion of the writing surface?
- Will a selective erase function be added?
- Will solar power ever be used for the erase function instead of a battery?
- Why doesn’t the LCD writing surface clear when I push the erase button?
- If you have just purchased the Boogie Board tablet, try pushing the erase button harder and more directly. It will make a clicking sound when it is properly engaged.
- The Boogie Board tablet’s erase function could have been damaged from exposure to heat, water, shock, or other extreme conditions.
- Since the Boogie Board tablet has an LCD writing surface, does it contain lead and mercury like other LCDs in computer monitors, TVs, etc.?
- How should I dispose of the Boogie Board tablet?
- Can the package be recycled?
- Will different sizes of the tablet be sold?
- How do I clean the tablet?
- Is the tablet safe for use by young children?
- Will a save function be added to the tablet?
- Can the tablet be used outside?
- Can I leave the tablet in my closed car or other places that experience temperature extremes?
- What is the return/warranty policy?
- I lost my stylus. Can I purchase a replacement?
- Can I download the user guide?
The Boogie Board tablet and Etch-a-Sketch™ are quite different in how images are created, erased and most importantly, how each product is used.
The Boogie Board tablet utilizes a reflective, pressure-sensitive, plastic liquid crystal display (LCD). Images are created by pressing on the LCD screen with a stylus, fingernail or other instrument. To clear the screen, an erase button is pushed. This tells the electronics, which are powered by a coin cell watch battery, to erase the image by applying an electric field to the LCD. In contrast, the Etch-a-Sketch screen is made of glass that is coated with an aluminum powder on its interior. Images are created by turning two mechanical knobs attached to a metal post to selectively remove the powder. To “erase” the Etch-a-Sketch screen, the user shakes the entire unit to to recoat the glass where the powder was removed.
The Boogie Board tablet uses a direct, free form method to create an image that simulates the experience of handwriting or drawing with pencil on paper. Line width is proportional to the amount of pressure applied, just like pencil on paper. Because of these functional characteristics, the Boogie Board tablet has many more applications than the Etch-a-Sketch — which is primarily used as a toy drawing medium for novelty purposes. The Boogie Board tablet is a daily use, multi-purpose paper replacement. Use it to write memos, leave messages, make lists, jot down ideas, play games, practice handwriting/arithmetic (young students), diagram the winning play, and yes, draw pictures (with shading).
Because the Boogie Board tablet’s LCD is reflective, the contrast is dependent on ambient lighting conditions in the same way as ink/graphite on paper. Thus, the Boogie Board contrast is optimal and looks best when viewed under bright (indirect) light. Contrast is decreased when it is used in dim lighting conditions. The reflective nature of the LCD allows the tablet to consume no energy when writing/drawing.
No, the image will not be lost. In fact, the image will remain indefinitely – you just won’t be able to see it in the dark! Pressing on the Boogie Board’s LCD causes the liquid crystals in it to flow to a reflective state. The reflective state can only be changed to the non-reflective (dark) state by pressing the erase button or heating the LCD above 65°C (149°F, although this could damage the display. See question 20 for more information).
Because the Boogie Board tablet does not require power to create an image, no on/off button is necessary. Pressing the erase button supplies a small of amount of power to clear the image.
The battery is non-replaceable because it is expected to easily last the life of the product. The Boogie Board tablet uses a very small amount of power from the battery each time it erases. The power consumption is so small, the battery has exceeded 50,000 erases in factory testing. Even if the tablet is erased 20 times per day, which is exceptionally high usage, the battery will last six years. With less usage, the battery will last longer.1 Battery-related specifications are reviewed regularly against user habits, battery performance, environmental issues and other factors.
1. The lithium coin cell used to power the Boogie Board tablet erase function may last much longer than six years depending on use and stand-by power consumption (the Boogie Board tablet consumes 0.00025mA when not erasing). One industry source estimates a 10 year life span in the absence of system power. Even after 10 years, the battery may not be fully depleted and may still power the erase function. Individual results will vary. Should your Boogie Board tablet battery fail at any time, it is technician replaceable free of charge (more information).
Any instrument can be used that will impart the desired pressure without scratching2, puncturing or otherwise damaging the display. Even the back of your fingernail can be used! To create cool effects, try a stiff artist brush, comb or even your thumb print!
2. A special polymer hardcoat has been applied to the writing surface to prevent scratches. However, scratching can occur when an instrument that is harder than the hardcoat is used. The included stylus has been factory tested and will not cause scratches on the screen since it is a softer material than the hardcoat. It is recommended that young children be monitored while using the Boogie Board tablet to ensure a proper instrument is utilized. See question 16 for additional information related to scratches.
No, the tablet is not broken. The flashes are part of the erase function to clear the LCD by returning all the liquid crystals to the non-reflective (dark) state. When the flashing stops, a new image can be created.
No, you can not erase just a portion of the writing surface. The entire surface is cleared when the erase button is pushed.
The addition of a selective erase function is under review.
The Reflex™ LCD technology used in the Boogie Board tablet can be solar powered. Using this form of power instead of a battery, or as a supplement to the battery, is under review.
No, the Reflex LCD technology used in the Boogie Board tablet does not contain mercury, lead or other heavy metals commonly found in other LCDs.
The Boogie Board tablet should be disposed of using methods common to other electronic devices that do not contain heavy metals or other hazardous materials. Disposal of the Li/MnO2 (Lithium/Manganese Dioxide) battery should be addressed separately. The proper disposal method for the battery may vary according to the nation or U.S. state where disposal occurs. Consult local agencies for disposal guidance as well as potential recyclability of some tablet components.
As part of our Push Green™ initiative, Improv Electronics has made a concerted effort to make our packages as recyclable as possible. Still, some components may not be recyclable. Improv Electronics continues to explore other packaging designs and materials to minimize non-recyclable components.
Development of other sizes is under review.
The writing surface of the tablet should be cleaned with the cloth provided or other soft cloth. Some dirt or residue may appear as scratches. These can often be removed by breathing on the tablet as you would to clean a pair of eyeglasses and rubbing with additional force. If residue still remains, a small amount of LCD cleaner (e.g., Monster™) or lens cleaner for plastic eye-glasses (ammonia and alcohol free) can be used. When using these products, do not spray the writing surface directly. This can cause penetration of the cleaning agent into electronics and other parts of the tablet and result in permanent damage. Instead, spray a small amount of cleaner onto the cloth and apply moderate pressure in a circular motion starting in the center of the writing surface working to the edges. Repeat as necessary until the residue is completely removed.
Any other liquids, detergents or abrasives should not be used to clean the Boogie Board tablet, nor should it be submerged in water.
Yes, the tablet is safe for use by young children. All case and writing surface materials are made from impact resistant plastic. All case components are made from an ABS plastic material commonly used in many other consumer products. The LCD has passed toxicology assessment for safety.
This is the most common question posed about the Boogie Board tablet. A save function is in development for future products. Numerous options are under consideration at this time. However, final specifications have not yet been determined. A target price and launch date have also not been determined.
The Boogie Board tablet is designed for use indoors. However, it can be exposed to direct sunlight and/or used outside for brief periods. Do not expose the tablet to direct sunlight or moisture for a prolonged time. This includes interior spaces adjacent to windows that receive direct sunlight (e.g., vehicle, kitchen, office) or areas with high humidity. Permanent damage can occur from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight (faded writing surface) or moisture (electrical short). Damage incurred from excessive exposure to UV light or moisture is not covered by warranty.
The recommended storage temperature range for the tablet is 14°F to 149°F (-10°C to 65°C). If the tablet does experience temperature extremes outside of this range, it could still be usable. Bring it into a temperate environment (approximately 70°F or 21°C) and allow about 15 minutes before attempting to write or erase. Normal functionality could return.
You may return your unopened or malfunctioning* Boogie Board tablet for refund or exchange within 30 days to your place of purchase.
* Under normal use and conditions. Malfunctioning products are subject to evaluation to qualify for a refund/exchange.
Replacement styluses, as well as mounting magnets and other accessories, are available at www.myboogieboard.com/buy-now.html
Yes, it can be downloaded from myboogieboard.com (www.myboogieboard.com/support/userguide/25150B-Boogie-Board-User-Guide.pdf)
If you have additional questions, contact us at 330.931.0811 or iMPROV.support@kentdisplays.com.
Boogie Board and Reflex are trademarks of the Kent Displays, Inc.
Etch-a-Sketch is a registered trademark of the Ohio Art Company.
