Graphics Tablets--what do they do for you?

Oct 30, 2004
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I recently acquired a program (Serif DrawPlus X2) that allows users to draw their own graphics. I am wondering whether a graphics pad would be useful. I can't draw a straight line on paper, but do the graphics tablets interpret your attempt to draw a straight line as being an actually straight line? Circles? Curves? Etc.?
 

corkyg

Elite Member | Peripherals
Super Moderator
Mar 4, 2000
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The tablet form facto makes for good portability. Fora straight line, us the edge of a credit card.

Graphics tablets such as Wacom can be used with standard drafting tools - curves, straight edges, etc. And, that can also be controlled by software.

A simple example is Paint in Win7. There are tools that make straight lines, curves, and of course, freestyle. And of course, rectangles, ovals, and circles.

Basically it is no different than using a mouse except it is more precise.

My bad - my first response was based on tablet. I later realized you are talking about a digitizing pad.
 
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gsaldivar

Diamond Member
Apr 30, 2001
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do the graphics tablets interpret your attempt to draw a straight line as being an actually straight line? Circles? Curves?

It depends on the software you are using. A graphics tablet simply captures the movement of a stylus across the surface. It's up to the software to interpret that movement and store it as a curve, a straight edge, or as individual points...
 

Dug

Diamond Member
Jun 6, 2000
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You will want to get a Wacom tablet if you want to draw anything. Drawing with a mouse is a waste of time.

Most drawing programs allow you to draw a straight line by holding down the Shift key.
 

corkyg

Elite Member | Peripherals
Super Moderator
Mar 4, 2000
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Even Windows Paint has a tool for a straight line, and other shapes. The digitizing pad also provides much greater precision and helps the user avoid CTS, a malady that can be caused by trying to draw extensively with a regular mouse. I guess precision is the main thing.