In the field of computer peripherals, at one time there were many devices and add-ons that expand the functionality of a personal computer. Some developments were dead-end branches, and some developed so broadly that for a number of office equipment manufacturers they were the main implementation product. An interesting development of input devices has become a graphic tablet. He not only was able to combine the functionality of the joystick and mouse, but also significantly facilitated the work of the user, becoming a more natural and adapted tool for a person.
The history of the development of
drawing tablets began in the 60s of the last century. A graphic tablet appeared and developed almost in parallel with the first commercial samples of mice. The computer was still far from the title of personal, tablets, in turn, were designed for the work of engineers.
A powerful impetus to the evolutionary development of these devices was given by the development of Wacom specialists. Bulky computers gradually turned from highly specialized computers to personal devices. Simultaneously with this process, the graphics tablet was getting closer and closer to a tool capable of solving a wide range of creative free-drawing tasks.
The most important achievement in improving the tablets was that the pen-transmitter got rid of any power sources. The Wacom stylus was not only convenient for drawing, but also retained the full set of mouse functionality. With it, the ability to work with all the features of Windows remained. Clicks, the context menu from the right button, the ability to drag and drop windows can easily be done using a graphics tablet.
The modern variety of both types of graphic information input devices and their manufacturers may surprise an unlucky user who decides to buy a graphic tablet for drawing. We’ll try to understand this abundance by breaking down the entire range of devices presented on the modern market into several types.
The first type combines models that allow you to enter arbitrary graphical information. Often the simplest ones work with A6 formats using a set of basic functions and properties. The pen comes with them, sometimes a special mouse. Upgrading is accompanied by an increase in the spectrum, quality, and the introduction of additional properties. Additional buttons appear in models, software is being developed, and the range of accessories is expanding. The format of the work surface reaches A4 standard.
The second type includes tablet-type designs (example: mini-tablet). It is impossible to draw fully on them, but leaving an identifiable signature is quite realistic. This, most likely, office equipment is fashionable, but not functional. This type includes “digital notebooks” that can not only perceive dozens of A4 pages of handwritten text, but also convert it into plain text, understandable to ordinary Windows editors.
The third type combines devices that appeared as a result of combining the capabilities of a tablet and a monitor interface. They are also called pen-type interactive displays . These devices were a continuation of the idea of a light pen, which at one time did not receive due attention.
If you were faced with the question of how to choose a graphics tablet, then, first of all, you should think about what tasks you will have to solve with its help. Do not forget that this is just a tool. You can expand its functionality using more modern software.