In this paper, we examine the coupled electromechanical responses of transversely isotropic linear piezoelectric materials. In particular, we consider the boundary–initial‐value problem which is consistent with the transverse‐ or normal‐mode experiment and evaluate the effects of lateral boundary conditions on the electrical output of a rectangular specimen of such a material. The solution of the problem entails the simultaneous solution of the wave equation and the circuit equation. This is accomplished via numerical methods. Our results show that the electrical output of the specimen depends markedly on the lateral boundary conditions in that its value and its duration can either be enhanced or degraded without having to alter the mechanical loading. These observations are of importance, particularly in design considerations and in the interpretation of experimental information.