Mac OS Catalina and Your SMART Interactive Flat Panel

Matthew Thaxter
Director of Learning
News

MAC OS CATALINA SMART

There has been an issue with the latest version of the Mac OS Mojave and Catalina (10.14) and the touch capabilities with SMART’s interactive flat panels (IFP). For those who are getting or have a new SMART interactive flat panel, some slight tweaking is required to ensure that your new IFP and your latest Mac OS work smoothly together.

Background info on the issue

Before we get started, here are notes from SMART Technologies on SMART Notebook and the Catalina OS. The biggest takeaway here is to make sure your school has updated to the latest version of SMART Notebook and its drivers:

Here are the steps to get up and running

NOTE: In order to complete the steps below you may need administrator privileges.

1. Go to Apple menu > System Preferences > Security & Privacy. Select the Privacy tab, and then select Accessibility in the panel on the left. (Figure 1)

2. Click the lock icon and enter the administrator account username and password if prompted. Click OK. (Figure 2)

3. If “Notebook” amd “SMARTBoardService” appear in the panel on the right, select the checkboxes next to both items, close System Preferences, and restart the computer. You should now be able to use your SMART Board normally. However, if “Notebook” and “SMARTBoardService” do NOT appear in the panel on the left, continue reading.

4. Go to Finder > Applications > SMART Technologies.

5. Then, select the following Notebook applications from the Finder window and OPEN. (Figure 3)

6. Now back in the Security & Privacy window, select the checkbox next to the Notebook application. (Figure 4).

7. Click on the Padlock to lock the changes. You should restart the computer to ensure that the changes take full effect.

And that’s it! You should now be able to use your SMART Board normally. This procedure will also resolve errant pen mishaps that might have been happening.

0 thoughts on “Mac OS Catalina and Your SMART Interactive Flat Panel

Leave a Reply

Related Articles & Other Recommended Reading

Catch Teq at ISTE 2026!
Teq is ecstatic to attend the annual International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Live26! We’re excited to connect with educators and leaders alike to integrate cutting-edge edtech solutions that transform classroom instruction. Taking place from June 28th to July 1st, 2026, this top-notch event is being held at the Orange County Convention Center in […]

[ READ MORE ]

Go Beyond the Sticker Chart!
While sticker charts may appear to be harmless fun, there are a variety of reasons why educators should consider pivoting away from them. Let’s dive into practical strategies that rise above external rewards to build a lasting framework. It’s time to go beyond the sticker chart! Why Pivot? Ultimately, sticker charts can highlight student inequalities […]

[ READ MORE ]

Geeking Out for Google in May
May is here, and the end of the school year is in sight! This is the perfect time to explore new edtech concepts designed to help educators prepare for the next school year. Dive into a fresh lineup of engaging virtual professional development courses. We’re geeking out for Google in May with our latest Google-centered […]

[ READ MORE ]