Manual

5The DrawingBoard VI
What is the DrawingBoard VI?
The DrawingBoard VI belongs to a class of computer input devices called
graphic tablets, or digitizers. A digitizer is an electronic tablet work
surface. The position of a transducer, a handheld cursor or stylus pen, on
the work surface of the DrawingBoard VI is converted—digitized—into
data for computer processing. Data output from the DrawingBoard VI
digitizer is in the form of an X/Y coordinate pair that pinpoints the precise
location of the transducer on the tablet surface. By placing a drawing or
sketch on the tablet’s surface and tracing over it, graphical information
can be easily converted into accurate digital information for entry into the
computer. DrawingBoard VI digitizers utilize the same Advanced Func-
tion Technology that has been setting the world standard for performance
since 1975. These high performance tools are engineered with a state-of-
the-art positioning grid to ensure reliability, performance and quality.
Multiple accuracy versions are available to meet specific system require-
ments.
The DrawingBoard VI family of small and large format digitizers boasts
the highest resolution, 12,700 lines per inch, on the market today, unpar-
alleled accuracy, and a wide range of sizes, providing the perfect solution
when the work demands precision data input, particularly over a large
surface area. CAD, GIS, engineering, textile, and apparel designers appre-
ciate the variety of cordless and corded cursors and stylus pens available
to use with the DrawingBoard VI. An integrated mounting channel on the
large format tablet frame allows accessories, such as an accessory tray, to
be quickly and easily mounted. Easy-to-use software and programmable
function keys round out the picture of a powerful, versatile tool that can
be configured to meet the needs of any application environment from
drawing, animation, presentation graphics and desktop publishing to
drafting and mapping. The high-productivity DrawingBoard VI can be
used as both a digitizer and a mouse, eliminating the need for multiple
devices at your computer.
In order to send data from your DrawingBoard VI to your digitizing appli-
cation, your DrawingBoard VI must be physically connected to your
computer, and it must be able to transmit that data in such a way that the
digitizing application recognizes and understands it. Before you set up
your DrawingBoard VI, you should determine:
The requirements of the digitizing software application you are using
Whether your digitizing application requires software drivers to com-
municate with the DrawingBoard VI
The hardware communications connection (USB or serial) you will be
using between the DrawingBoard VI and the computer
Introduction