Graphics Tablet

Also called a drawing tablet or a pen tablet, a graphics tablet is a natural input device that converts information from a handheld stylus. The user uses the stylus like a pen, pencil, or paintbrush, pressing its tip on the tablet surface. The device can also be used in replacement of a computer mouse. Pictured is an example of a graphics tablet and stylus, manufactured by Wacom.

The first graphics tablet for home computers was the KoalaPad. Developed by Koala Technologies in 1984, the KoalaPad was originally designed for use by the Apple II computer, but later was available for the IBM PC compatible computer as well.

Similar to an artist drawing with a pencil and paper, a user draws on the graphics tablet with a stylus. The computer will convert the drawing strokes into digital form, displaying them on the computer screen.

The graphics tablet can also be used to capture users' signatures. This use is similar to the signature pads found at many retail stores, where you would write your signature after using a credit card to make a purchase.

Who uses graphics tablets?

Below is a list of professions and people who are more likely to use a graphics tablet.

·         Architects and Engineers

·         Artists

·         Cartoonist

·         Fashion designers

·         Graphic designers

·         Illustrators

·         Photographers

·         Teachers

Stylus

In computing, a stylus is an instrument shaped like a pen, designed to be used with graphics tablets or devices that use touch screen input. It is used to write or draw on a screen, similar to how you would on a sheet of paper. Unlike a pen, styluses have a plastic or felt tip depending on its purpose and functionality. The picture example shows the Palm Z22 stylus.

Which devices use a stylus?

Originally, the stylus was not commonly found or used with devices other than graphics tablets and PDAs. However, with the rising popularity of touch screens on mobile devices, many individuals like to use a stylus as a replacement for their finger. The reasoning varies, but it's usually for more accurate navigation and keeps oils from their fingers from getting on the device's screen.

What is the difference between passive and active styluses?

A stylus can come in one of two forms: passive (also known as a capacitive stylus) or active (also known as an active stylus or active pen). A passive stylus is not different than using your finger as far as the device is concerned. An active stylus (such as the one used with the Microsoft Surface) has an electronic component that interfaces with the device's touch screen controller. They have a few distinct advantages: more accurate and finer lines, different levels of pressure sensitivity, and the ability to ignore input from your hand resting on the screen. The last feature is referred to as palm rejection.

How is a stylus an input device?

Before the touch screens we know today, the stylus was used to input data into small palmtop devices. For example, the Palm Pilot used the stylus to write symbols known as graffiti to input letters into the device.

Today, a stylus is still considered an input device because it can point to and open or manipulate objects on a screen, like a computer mouse.