An interactive device is operable to receive a first plurality of sensed signals during a first temporal period. The first plurality of sensed signals indicate a first plurality of changes in electrical characteristics of a set of electrodes of the plurality of electrodes. A first impedance pattern identifying a writing passive device is detected based on interpreting the first plurality of changes in the electrical characteristics of the set of electrodes during the first temporal period. The writing passive device is detected based on detecting the first impedance pattern. Written user notion data is detected based on detecting movement of the writing passive device in relation to the interactive display device during the first temporal period. The written user notation data is processed for display in accordance with at least one display setting corresponding to the writing passive device.