Bamboo Fun Pens (1st generation)

Bamboo & Graphire Pens

We at DrawitTablet are always extremely grateful for customer and visitor input and take this opportunity to thank all of you for your questions, your valuable comments and for visiting our website.

Sometimes, we receive many queries about a similar issue.  Therefore, DrawitTablet presents, with one of the visitor’s permission, the concerns, questions and answers regarding the Bamboo Fun pens for the first generation Bamboo Fun drawing tablet that seems to puzzle a lot of people.

---

E-mail from a DrawitTablet visitor:

This is driving me crazy. I’ve searched for days for these answers. (keep in mind that I stink at searching)

I just bought my roommate a Bamboo Fun (1st Gen? – CTE450K) tablet on eBay. I’d love to get the new Gen Fun tablet, I just can’t afford it. But I wanted to get her any accessories that could enhance her abilities with drawing and painting. I was hoping there were other pens/brushes/whatever for the tablet I got. But the only ones I see are the 4 different colors – black, silver, blue, and white… EP155E* pens.

What I want to know is, are they just simple replacements in different colors? In other words, do they offer any extra features over the pen that comes packaged with the Bamboo Fun? Or do they just have new colors of the same packaged pen? And are there any OTHER accessories for that tablet that I can get for her?

Also, some places on your site have mentioned that the old Graphire Bluetooth Pen will work with the old Bamboo Fun tablet… and some places mention that you can only use the pens that were meant for that tablet. CAN you use the Bluetooth pen with the Bamboo Fun? And if so, does it offer any better or extra features over any of the Bamboo Fun pens? (and, I just thought of this) Do you have to have a Bluetooth connection thingie in your computer to use the Graphire pen?

And one last thing. What is the best artists software out there right now? Even the top 3 would be nice. And will they work with Windows 7? That’s what she has on her laptop. She mostly sketches, draws, and paints. She doesn’t do anything, that I know of, with digital photos. (you probably have a link to this information… and if so, feel free to just post the link. I don’t want to make you have to rewrite stuff you’ve already written out)

Heh, sorry for my ineptitude. I just don’t know where else to look. My brain hurts now. *laugh*

Thanks muchly for your help and your amazing site!

Holly Vaughn
Orono, Maine – U.S.

---

DrawitTablet’s Answer:

Hello Holly,

Thank you for your long list of questions. Contrary to your statement, you seem to have done quite a bit of research and we are very impressed.

About Bamboo Fun (CTE450K), 1st generation tablets & pens

Bamboo Fun Pen (Black) 1st generation

Unfortunately, with the Bamboo series, be it first or second generation, there is only one kind of pen available. There aren’t any different types of pens with specific features like we find with the Intuos3 or Intuos4 Pen Tablets.

The colors available for 1st generation Bamboo FUN pens are just matching colors for the different colored Bamboo Fun tablets. They are all basic-function Bamboo Fun pens with pressure-sensitive erasers. They do not offer any extra or special features.

There are no other accessories available for the Bamboo Fun tablets, no special pens, no travel bags, no pen tethers, no overlay sheets… That is a shame, but Wacom is improving that with the 2nd generation Bamboo tablets. Travel bags for the new Bamboo tablets will soon to be released, but still only one kind of pen.

About Graphire Bluetooth Pens

Graphire Bluetooth Pen

We agree that the compatibility of Graphire pens with Bamboo tablets can be a very confusing issue. The bottom line is that YES, any Graphire pen will work with Bamboo FUN (1st generation only) tablets.

(Graphire pens will not work properly with STANDARD Bamboo – basic 1st gen. black tablets – which do not have the pressure sensitive eraser capabilities that a Graphire pen offers. Similarly, the STANDARD black Bamboo pen with no pressure sensitivity on the eraser, will not work properly on Graphire or Bamboo Fun tablets which are designed to recognize pressure-sensitive erasers.)

However, Graphire pens have no more features or capabilities than the Bamboo FUN pens. Actually, Bamboo FUN first generation pens are the newer version of Graphire pens. It is always preferable to use the pens that match the tablet.

No, you do not need a Bluetooth adapter to use a Graphire pen on a Bamboo FUN tablet because the tablet “powers” the cordless and battery-free pen.

Concerning best artist’s software

What is considered the best software for artists is often based on personal preference and on what the artist specializes in doing. However, here are a few recommendations based on our experience.

You can download free trial versions of each following program from the links provided, and if you like it, purchase them from the same links:

Easy Paint Tool SAI http://sai.detstwo.com/sai/

in our opinion, the best value for the money. It is a very good and lightweight program used by many professional artists. It is used mostly for drawing.

Corel Painter 11 http://www.corel.com/servlet/Satellite/ca/en/Product/

1166553885783#tabview=tab0

this is a lot more expensive, but it is an excellent painting program, the best for reproducing painting effects

Open Canvas 4.5 http://www.portalgraphics.net/en/oc/

a good program, easy to use and lightweight (it does not use a lot of resources like CPU or RAM), used by pros as well, but compared to the other 2 above, it’s not quite as good.

Since your roommate has a laptop, we recommend Easy Paint Tool SAI and Open Canvas. Both will run well without slowing down the computer.

We do not know if by purchasing your tablet on E-Bay, you received the disk of free software that comes with any new Bamboo Fun tablet. The free software bundle included:

Adobe Photoshop Elements (6.0 for Windows, 6.0 for Mac)

- For editing, retouching, enhancing, organizing and sharing digital photos

Corel Painter Essentials 4.0

- For creating original artwork, natural media art and turning digital photos into paintings

Nik Color Efex Pro 3.0 WE3

- For selectively applying lighting and photo enhancements

If your roommate registers her tablet with Wacom on this link:

http://www.wacom.com/register/index.php she can take advantage of special privileges and software offers which you can view on the following link:

http://www.wacom.com/privileges/bamboo.php?tablet=bamboo

If you do not have the Bamboo Fun software DVD, you can contact Wacom directly to see if you could get one free of charge:

http://www.wacom.com/productsupport/email.php?type=technical

All of the above software work with Windows 7 and will surely inspire and enhance your roommate’s drawing skills.

We hope we have answered all of your questions and concerns. If you still need more information, please feel free to contact us anytime.

In the meantime, we thank you very much for your query (we really enjoyed reading your e-mail) and we greatly appreciate your visit to our website.

With kind regards,
Beau Crae
Technical Advisor for DrawitTablet
contactus@drawittablet.com

Intuos4 Pen Tablets

Intuos4 Pen Tablet Wins reddot Award

Once again, Wacom has won the coveted reddot design award for outstanding quality and design for the 5th consecutive year. The 2009 reddot distinction was awarded for Wacom’s new superior pen tablet: the Intuos4.

Intuos4 Pen Tablet

Surpassing all aspirations and the desires of many graphic tablet users, this striking new black pen tablet offers stimulating features for unrivalled performance thanks to Intuos4’s advanced pen pressure sensitivity levels, optimal control, enhanced productivity and simplicity of use.

After listening to criticism, comments and opinions from pen tablet users all over the world, Wacom set the bar even higher and exceeded the already outstanding Intuos3 model. This achievement resulted in pen tablet with:

- near-zero starting pen-tip pressure,

- upgraded user friendly driver software,

- additional customisable keyboard shortcuts,

- top of the line pressure sensitivity levels (2048),

- improved, ergonomic, latex-free, cushioned Grip Pen

- OLED illuminated modifier keys showing the functions in use,

- owner’s choice of 4 bonus, downloadable and valuable software

- new precision mode for more accuracy and precision with intricate details,

- ambidextrous, ultra-slim ergonomic design placing all the commands at the fingertips of both left-handed and right-handed users, and much, much more.

With all these new improvements and features, it is no wonder that the largest worldwide competition for concept, product and communication designs awarded Wacom the reddot award – the international seal of quality for a premium pen tablet: the Intuos4.

For more information about the new Intuos4 pen tablet or other reddot awards won by Wacom, visit DrawitTablet.com.

www.drawittablet.com

DrawitTablet Holiday Special

Ultimate, Innovative Holiday Gifts

Create a special touch of wonder this holiday with unique Wacom tablets.

To help you do just that,  each and every tablet is on sale at DrawitTablet.  For this holiday special, just choose the right tablet, then type in the word holiday in the check-out on Drawittablet.com to receive your savings.

Bamboo Pen - a classic

 For any beginner: Be they a beginner with computers or just learning how to sketch or draw digitally, there is a striking new tablet just for them.

-  A touch of a finger is all they need to control a computer cursor.  The brand new Bamboo Touch tablet is easier and faster than any ordinary computer mouse, and even does more than a mouse could do.  It really puts fun back into interacting with a computer again.

-  Multi-touch is not their thing ?  Then a simple pen tablet, the Bamboo Pen will also do more than an ordinary mouse, plus add handwritten notes to e-mails, a few personal touches to photos and much more.

-  Encourage creativity and boost performance, with the innovative Bamboo Pen & Touch tablet. With just a touch of a finger, perform basic computer functions easily.  Then with a swipe of a pen, write, sketch or draw with stunning precision. The best of both technological worlds is rolled into one tablet!

 For Scrapbookers and Crafters: BAMBOO CRAFT Pen & Touch wins hands down. Delighting digital scrapbook designers of all ages, this stylish silver Bamboo Craft tablet comes with a cache of valuable software, free tutorials, and great bonus materials, all geared to inspire photo-album creativity and crafty fun.  This recently released small tablet packs a powerful value.

Bamboo Touch, Bamboo Pen, Bamboo Pen & Touch, Bamboo Craft, Fun

 For budding artists, students and photo retouching professionals: Amaze your loved one with a strikinly accurate tool that will make their digital projects fun and easy to create. Choose from the new Bamboo FUN Pen & Touch (for beginners), the sleek Intuos4 (for intermediates) or the unique pen-on-screen  Cintiq (for professionals). A drawing tablet will surely make the holiday cheer last a very long time.

 For teachers, seminar hosts and students: who often need to control and work at their computer from a distance during presentations or lessons, will surely be surprised at the wireless Graphire Bluetooth tablet which allows them 30 feet of wireless freedom!

 For the eco-friendly person who hates batteries: Bamboo / Bamboo Touch, Intuos4 and Cintiq pen tablets all plug into a  PC or Mac computer via USB. These pen tablets then power the cordless and battery-free pen by electromagnetic resonance. It’s sure to being a smile to any environment-conscious individual.

 For computer users suffering from arthritis or Repetitive Strain Injury: Using a pen or even your fingers to control a computer cursor would definitely relieve the pain associated with using a mouse for extended periods of time. Be it a simple Bamboo Touch tablet or the plain Bamboo Pen which outperform the simple mouse, or a combination of both in one Bamboo Pen & Touch tablet, each one will go a long way to relieve discomfort. DrawitTablet.com has all three styles of Bamboo / Bamboo Touch to accommodate different user needs.

Variety of Wacom Drawing Tablets at DrawitTablet.com

 For architects or industrial engineers: Watch their eyes light up, for many years to come, with a newly designed computer tool: the awesome Intuos4 graphic tablet, or better yet, the incomparable Cintiq interactive pen display which allows you to write on the screen itself! They are the best for any professional who insists on pen-point accuracy. You might just have to lift their jaw off the floor!

 For graphic artists or specialized designers: the larger Intuos4 models and the Cintiq line offer supreme precision, accuracy and performance.  Since these precision tablets make graphic-design easier, they are ideal gifts which any technological expert will adore.  It’s truly what they have been wishing for.

 For any computer buff: Top-of-the-line Wacom graphic, drawing,  or touch tablets come in many different styles and sizes to accommodate any desk size and any level of professionalism.  Touch, pen or drawing tablets not only  help navigate faster and draw better digitally than with a mouse, it also creates an element of fun and adventure.

Add a touch of lasting excitement to the holidays with any Wacom graphic or touch tablet.  Avoid disappointment, avoid out-of-stock panic, and get your order in now before the rush!

Insert the coupon code holiday in the check-out at DrawitTablet.com and see how much you can save.

We are looking forward in helping you find the techno-perfect gift.

Happy holidays to you and yours.

www.drawittablet.com

NEW: Touch Tablets

Getting in Touch with your Computer

Wacom is on a roll. For the second time this year, Wacom has released an exciting new line of innovative graphic tablets. True to form, these fresh Bamboo drawing tablets provide a simpler and more natural way to control a computer cursor.

New Bamboo / Bamboo Touch Family

In Sept 2009, after much public anticipation, Wacom launched their novel Bamboo line specifically designed for entrance-level users. Be it at home, school or the office, you will now be able to interact with your computer with just a touch of a finger.

Power at the tip of a pen or fingers

The second generation Bamboo graphic tablets combine two technologies into one tablet: the renowned pen control plus multi-touch input.

With multi-touch, just a simple tap of one finger will open a menu or select and drag a file. Two-finger gestures will rotate a digital photo, flip through documents, scroll up, down or sideways, pan, and zoom in or out. Touch-based input is much faster, and goes beyond, conventional mouse capabilities. Bamboo also boasts a much larger active area than the average track pad.

With pressure-sensitive, cordless, battery free pen, it is the ideal tool that enables you to sketch or draw, apply your signature to any document, and edit or retouch photos with stunning precision, again, with a lot more versatility and accuracy than a mouse.

Bamboo Pen and Touch tablets automatically switch between the two modes by the proximity of the pen. If the pen is near, it overrides the multi-touch commands. Touch-input can also be disabled by a press of a button if needed.

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Bamboo in 5 fresh styles

Basically, the core of the Bamboo line-up is comprised of 3 small (hand-sized) sleek black models: Bamboo Touch, Bamboo Pen and Bamboo Pen & Touch. As their name suggests:

(1) Bamboo Touch only delivers multi-touch features,
(2) Bamboo Pen is strictly pen input only, while
(3) Bamboo Pen & Touch offers the flexibility of BOTH finger-based and pen inputs with TWICE the pen-point pressure sensitivity.
They range from $69.00 to $99.00 US & Can.

Bamboo / Bamboo Touch Tablets

Then Bamboo Pen & Touch branches out into two stylish silver models each with their own particular package to serve your specific artistic needs:

(4) Bamboo Craft (for Scrapbooking and other crafts) and
(5) Bamboo Fun, the largest Bamboo tablet, (for more pen-point accuracy and serious photo-retouching),
Their average prices are $129.00 and $199.00 US & Can respectively.

Pen & Touch Tablets: Bamboo Fun and Bamboo Craft

________________________________________________________________________________________________

The final touches

All new USB-powered Bamboo tablets have retained the textured work surface which imitates the pen-on-paper sensation. Plus every Bamboo tablet is now reversible meaning that left-handed and right handed alike can enjoy an innovative solution for computer work and play.

Every new Bamboo tablet features 4 glossy, customizable ExpressKeys (except for Bamboo Pen) for keyboard shortcuts and other applications and a white LED status light which glows when the tablet is in use. It glows amber for the double-input (pen & touch) tablets. In addition, every Bamboo digitizer pen has a customizable two-button toggle switch on the side. Three spare pen nibs are also included with the stylus.

This long-awaited drawing tablet has only a few, be they insignificant, drawbacks:

• contrary to the higher end older Bamboo tablets, the eraser on the new Bamboo pens is not pressure sensitive. Its only function is to erase or delete,

• the pen stand has dwindled down to a red-fabric pen loop attached to the side of the pen tablets,

• Bamboo has also done away with mice altogether,

• while finger-based gestures are definitely faster than a mouse, (a detailed tutorial on all the finger and hand gestures is included with each touch input Bamboo tablet), the new Bamboo multi-touch technology only uses a maximum of two-fingers. Therefore, it does limit some more professional based functions, and

• finger-painting is not recommended as it can only be done with one finger – there is only one computer cursor – and the finger-input lacks pressure-sensitivity.

Bamboo Touch Tablet

A harmonious touch

Yet again, Wacom has combined a touch of simplicity and a touch of ingenuity to produce a whole new world of digital freedom. This time, users can enjoy both pen and touch input in one unit, or separately, thus enabling more creativity and personality.

Finally, Bamboo Touch enables a more harmonious way to interact with a computer by adding a human element: the simple touch.

www.drawittablet.com

Before you commit … read it

Before you commit to any drawing tablet

Many people get caught in the trap that all pen tablets* are created equal. Based on that assumption, they grab the best value for their money, or so they think. OR, they purchase the most expensive pen tablet on the market, thinking it will solve all of their computer workflow issues.

Unfortunately, these people end up being disappointed and disenchanted about their pen tablets and vow never to touch one again.

It does not have to be that way at all. Buying a graphic tablet is almost like buying a car: you weigh the features of every potential drawing tablet, and you choose the one which will best suit you, your needs and your wallet. Yes, admittedly, the financial situation plays a big factor these days, but a cheaper pen tablet might not be able to fulfill all of your graphic aspirations, nor meet your requirements for precision and quality.

Wacom Bamboo Graphic Tablet

Some drawing tablet scenarios:

A) My wrist and hand hurt and I just want something to replace the mouse.

Then, you will NOT need a pen tablet that is fully loaded with features and software geared for graphic artists. All that is required is a basic pen tablet, which gives you the freedom to interact comfortably with your computer.

But be careful. A battery-powered digitizer pen has been known to be too heavy for the people suffering from RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury) or arthritis, while a wired digitizing pen does not give the person the freedom of movement or the ability to hold the pen in a position most comfortable for the user.

Easy to learn and simple to use, Bamboo (standard) is the most basic of the Wacom graphic tablets and does a great job in replacing a mouse, and more. (All Wacom pen tablets come with a matching battery-free and cordless digitizer pen.**).

Using a pen tablet will help relieve wrist and hand stress (commonly known as the Mouse Syndrome), and people with arthritis report having an easier time holding a pen than grabbing a mouse.

B) My child wants to learn to draw with a computer.

Then you need a drawing tablet bundled with some art-based software but basic enough for the child to easily learn the features. The Bamboo Fun Wacom drawing tablets, with 512 pressure sensitivity levels, are perfect for beginners and budding artists. There are two sizes as well as four different colors to choose from.

But if your child works with advanced graphic projects that require more precision, more accuracy and more control, then an Intuos4 Small or Medium is an excellent investment. It will last a long time, well into senior academic years, while giving pixel-perfect results. Your child will also be able to choose which free downloadable software (a total of 4) would benefit him or her the most.

C) I am a professional designer using large technical schemes.

Then pen tablets with larger drawing areas like the Intuos4 Large or Extra Large, or the Cintiq 21UX, are preferable. While the Intuos4 offers the highest levels of pressure sensitivity (2048) and many new shortcut features that speed-up workflow, the Cintiq (1024 pressure sensitivity levels) allows you to draw directly on the monitor screen for unsurpassed hand-eye coordination.

D) I suffer from back problems and cannot sit at a desk for long periods of time.

Then a wireless Wacom pen tablet, the Graphire Bluetooth, will be perfect for the task, as it allows you to sit in your favourite chair or most comfortable position as far as 30 feet from your computer. If you desire 4 times more accuracy and precision, the Intuos4 , while not wireless, does have an 8 foot USB cord (which allows you to sit further away from the computer desk) and also offers more keyboard shortcuts.

Intuos4 Pen Tablet

Pen Tablets should enhance, not hinder

It cannot be stressed enough that a drawing tablet reflects YOUR needs and the way YOU desire to work with a computer. Someone might really enjoy a Bamboo Fun but that same pen tablet might prove to be too small, or not have the right software, or not be sensitive enough for the person who toils with minute details.

The contrary is also true, where an advanced drawing tablet will be perfect for the professional graphic artist but prove to be too much for basic office use. Furthermore, the more “gadgets” or features a pen tablet offers, the longer it will take to learn how to master them all. This might be too much for someone who just wants the basics.

Remember, when comparing pen tablets ****

• always keep their features, their longevity, and the manufacturer’s support in mind,

• address questions about Mac and PC compatibility and whether or not the drawing tablet works well with any and all applications and with multiple monitors,***

• at the spur of the moment, it might not matter if a digitizer pen accompanying the graphic tablet is both cordless and battery-free. But in the long run, the cost and the inconvenience of replacing batteries do add up,

• a pen tablet’s performance might not be essential, initially, but the frustrations of an unresponsive graphic tablet may ruin many working days,

• durability is often overlooked and sacrificed for immediate affordability, which can be an expensive venture when the low-priced pen tablet has to be replaced within a few years or so,

• a manufacturer’s support goes a long way in helping you take full advantage of your graphic tablet and reaping the benefits.

A lot of information and tips can be found on DrawitTablet and the DrawitTablet Weblog about Wacom pen tablets: from articles and info pages, to FAQ. Take the time to read up on the tablet of your choice – and choose a pen tablet that will help you create your finest digital work and bring out the best in you, be it navigating, hand-writing, photo-retouching, drawing or designing.

Intuos4 pen tip

So, before you commit to buying a drawing tablet, read about it first. Then purchase a pen tablet that you will be able to fully enjoy, and which will serve you well, for a long time.

* Pen tablets are also known as graphic tablets or drawing tablets.

** To date, only Wacom drawing tablets come with battery-free and wireless digitizer pens.

*** Wacom won many awards for pen tablet design, durability, functionality, quality and compatibility.

**** Other graphic tablets available on the market in alphabetical order: AIPTEK,  DigiPro / UC Logic, Genius, LaPazz, PenPower,  SolidTek, VisTablet.  All of them use battery-powered digitizer pens.

www.drawittablet.com

Tips for Pen Tablet Users

The following tips will help prolong the life
of your graphic tablet and your digitizer pens.

Wacom products available at www.DrawitTablet.com

For Intuos3 graphics tablets

If you prefer a textured surface instead of a smooth one, there are overlays of various sizes which have a slightly roughened surface.  Just place the overlay on top of the drawing area of the graphic tablet. It will also protect the surface from scratches and preserve it from normal wear & tear.  If you use your graphic tablet for tracing artwork, this overlay can also be used to hold down a piece of paper while your are tracing.

For Graphire Bluetooth wireless graphic tablets

Never leave the stylus or a mouse on the  Graphire Bluetooth pen tablet when not in use.  Leaving any input tool on the wireless tablet can prevent the tablet from switching off or going in rest-mode, thus causing the battery to drain prematurely. Furthermore, leaving any input device on the graphic tablet may interfere with the screen cursor positioning when using other pointing devices.

For any battery-free and cordless digitizer stylus

Always store your digitizer pen in its proper pen stand or lay it on its side on your desk.  Resting the graphic tablet pen directly on its tip or eraser (like in an everyday ball-point pen container) may damage the sensitivity of your stylus.

For any pen tablet user

• To prevent excessive scratches and to prolong the life of both pen nib and graphic tablet surface, frequently wipe the drawing area of your pen tablet with a soft, damp cloth, to prevent dust and dirt particles from sticking to the pen nib.

• Getting a skin for your tablet can also protect your investment.  Good quality skins should go on easily without creasing, and be removable without leaving any sticky residue.  (Skinit offers quite an extensive selection of skins, not only for Wacom Graphic Tablets, but for many other electronic devices.)

• Do you have sweaty hands or palms ?  Does your hand sometime stick to the graphic tablet ?  Presto: all you need is a custom pinky-glove.  You can make your own by just cutting off all the fingers from a cotton glove EXCEPT for the little finger. (You might want to remove the glove off your hand before cutting !!!) Or, you can purchase one.  (We personally love  SmudgeGuard.)  This pinky-glove will not only let you glide smoothly over the graphic tablet, but it will also protect the surface of your drawing area from unnecessary body oils and dirt.

• If you frequently move from one work station to another, a graphic tablet bag would save your tablet from accidental bumps and scratches.   Wacom travel bags are lightweight, durable, and fashionable.  Despite the Intuos3 logo on them, these tote bags can accommodate any graphic tablet of a similar size.

Liquids and electronics are not good associates

Extremely sensitive electronic components,  found in the interior of every graphic tablet and their stylus partner, will fail if exposed to liquids or humidity.  Be very careful not to spill any liquids on the programmable keys of a graphic tablet or on the buttons, tip and eraser of a stylus.

Wishing you and your graphic tablet a long, successful and fun life,

www.drawittablet.com

Hey, where are all the Intuos4 Accessories ?

People spoke.  Wacom listened.  And to everyone’s amazement, the sleek, black Intuos4 pen tablet surpassed everyone’s expectations.  The very instant you touch the optimized surface of the graphic tablet and the very moment you apply pen to tablet, you realize you are in for a totally improved and sensational experience.

New Intuos4

Wacom broke many barriers with the new Intuos4.  It’s…

-  lighter,
-  reversible, and
-  more energy efficient.

Plus, the re-engineered Intuos4 pen tablet has…

-  nifty hardware gadgets,
-  superior pressure sensitivity levels,
-  increased accuracy and responsiveness,
-  greater level of control with better comfort,
-  ingenious reminders of what keys perform which function, and
-  numerous time-saving features which can be activated with a swipe of a finger or a touch of the pen.

Wacom unleashed this optimized new marvel in Canada and the United States on March 25, 2009.  Unfortunately, the Intuos4 Accessories were not as quick to make their debut in the world.

Intuos4 Accessories, like the Grip Pen Accessory Kit, a variety of digitizer pens and the Intuos4 Travel Bags, won’t be available for another week or more.   The problems causing the delay are unknown to us at the moment, but rest assured that Wacom is working on releasing them as soon as possible.

It’s almost like waiting for the new Intuos4 all over again … the quality of Wacom’s products will make the anticipation and the waiting well worth it.

Staff at

www.drawittablet.com

Always sad to see them go

Some Wacom discontinued items

A lot of people are asking why Wacom has stopped production on some of their products. We hope this will help answer several questions and address some of the concerns.

Wacom Bamboo Graphic Tablet

Bamboo

For the second time in year 2009, another drawing tablet bites the dust to be replaced by a sleeker, slimmer model.  Gone are the rainbow of colors available, the Touch Ring, the matching mouse, and the retro-blue illumination of the ExpressKeys.

Pen holders have been replaced by integrated fabric pen loops, the erasers on the digitizer pens are no longer pressure-sensitive, the four ExpressKeys are now on the side of the new reversible tablet, and a modern LED status light glows white or amber, depending on the model.

Finally, after long-awaited anticipation, the fresh Bamboo tablet line introduces multi-touch input – an innovative way to command your cursor with just a touch of a finger. Three of these new Bamboo tablets have DOUBLED their pressure-sensitivity, placing them way up there in the stunning precision and accuracy scale.

As always, Bamboo suits a variety of needs and working styles by offering 5 fresh different models. The old Bamboo may be gone, but the new Bamboo / Bamboo Touch is truly a touch of simple ingenuity.

Intuos3 Graphic Tablets

Intuos3

After 4 marvelous years – a very long time by technological standards – the Intuos3 silently fades into the background as it is replaced by the new and re-engineered Intuos4.

However, Intuos3’s  lifespan was not in vain by any means for Wacom took the best features of this famous pen tablet, like Tool ID, Tilt sensitivity, high resolution and maximum report rate to name just a few, and incorporated them in the upgraded 4th generation Intuos.

Some of Intuos3’s small shortcomings also led to amazing improvements in the Intuos4:

-  gone are the days of accidentally activating an ExpressKey with the dominant hand, thus being obliged to disable them, which actually defeated the purpose of having so many ExpressKeys.  Instead, the new Intuos4 pen tablet is reversible with ALL  ExpressKeys and other controls located on one side of the graphic tablet, an absolutely wonderful feature benefiting BOTH right and left handed users.

-  never again will you waste time wondering “which ExpressKeys did what” because the new Intuos4 has a show-settings function or a display  which reminds you of every key’s customized functions

-  no longer will you have to press so hard to activate the pen – the new amazingly low activation level increases responsiveness and allows you to work with the lightest touch

-  incredibly enough, double the pressure sensitivity levels, bringing it to a whopping 2048, the highest of any pen tablet thus far,

- and many more time-saving innovations…

Many graphic tablet users around the world have been waiting a long time for the new Intuos4 and its technological breakthroughs.

Nevertheless, for those of us who are still very fond of our Intuos3 pen tablets, there is the consolation that the Intuos3 pens will continue to be manufactured because they are the only tools that work with the incomparable pen-on-screen Cintiq interactive pen displays.

Cintiq 20WSX

Cintiq 20WSX

Wacom had three wonderful interactive pen displays – ingenious computer peripherals that combine the qualities of an LCD monitor and the virtues of a graphic tablet all rolled into one allowing the user to write or draw directly on the monitor screen.

Unfortunately, the Cintiq 20WSX‘s magical presence in the technological field was short lived (2007 – 2009) due to a halt in the manufacturing of a critical component, found only in the Cintiq 20WSX.

Although this second prodigy of the Cintiq series will be missed due to a few differences like Touch Strips which were conveniently located at the back of the display plus more Express Keys (14 in all !) for keyboard shortcuts and personalized functions as well as its wide screen format of 16:10 , the bigger brother (Cintiq 21UX) with a higher native resolution remains top of its class while the smaller Cintiq 12WX is still a lightweight champion with its wide screen format.

 

Graphire Series

Graphire Graphic Tablet series

 

The Graphire pen tablet line enjoyed rave reviews and still has a very devoted fan base. But Wacom decided to upgrade this series.

Now the adorable Bamboo (designed and affordable for every-day use) and the Bamboo Fun graphic tablets (available in 4 different colors and 2 different sizes) replace the Graphire (EXCEPT for the wireless Graphire Bluetooth pen tablet which is still going strong).

For those who still have and love their Graphire graphic tablets, do not dismay. Bamboo Fun pens (available in four different colors) are fully compatible with ALL Graphire tablets. The same goes for Graphire Digitizer Pens – they will function very well with every Bamboo Fun graphic tablet

 

Graphire Digitizer Pen

Graphire Digitizer Pen series

 

All of the Graphire pens are regrettably following their tablet-partners out of existence EXCEPT for the Graphire Bluetooth stylus. But, the Bamboo Fun pens promise to be just as wonderful as their predecessors and will work with all Graphire Graphic Tablets.

 

Intuos2 Grip Pen

Intuos and Intuos2 Graphic Tablets & Pens

 

Technological competition is fierce and when the new and improved Intuos3 arrived on the market, the other previous contenders started fading out of reach. The same goes for the accompanying Intuos and Intuos2 digitizer pens.

While the Intuos3 is top of the line in the graphic tablet department, the pen tablets of every Intuos level 1, 2 and 3 will only work with their own “partner” pens 1, 2 and 3 respectively. They are not interchangeable. This can prove to be a disadvantage if someone needs a new Intuos pen for an older version of Intuos tablet.

 

Intuos Ink Pen

Intuos Ink Pens

 

As more and more people are becoming accustomed to writing or drawing while looking up at the screen instead of down on the paper or work surface, the ink pens are progressively losing their appeal.  Slowly but surely, all the ink pens will be phased out EXCEPT for the Intuos3 Ink pen which still has a lot to offer when it comes to tracing an original or hand-writing texts and signatures with the right software. It also comes with 3 black ink cartridges, 3 standard plastic nibs and a free pen stand.

Always sad to say goodbye

We all have our favorites and when they are discontinued, we can’t help but feel sad and even angry. But technology will not be held back … and with new technological advances come new, better and faster ways of doing things.

Without WACOM ‘s drive and passion to move forward, we would not be enjoying the freedom and reaping the health benefits of the new battery-free and cordless Penabled Technology which powers all Wacom graphic tablets and their digitizer pens.

Staff at www.DRAWitTablet.com

updated October, 2009

Touched by a Tablet – Part 2

Wacom Graphic Tablet Basics – Part 2

If you are searching for double the accuracy and precision in a graphics tablet with the added bonus of pen tilt control, you can choose from the various sizes of Intuos4 graphic tablets or Cintiq interactive pen displays.

Applying pen to tablet: Intermediate

New Intuos4 by Wacom

Wacom’s newest Intuos4 line, in its sleek, black color and optimized surface moves the Bamboo’s Touch Ring (at the top of the tablet) to the side of the tablet for easy scrolling and zooming, but with the added feature of a 4-function Toggle Button, positioned in the center of the heat/touch sensitive ring, to quickly switch from one setting to the next in each application.

The position of the ExpressKeys (for shortcuts) has also changed from the top (on the Bamboo and Graphire Bluetooth) to the side (on the Intuos4).

The Intuos4 adds input tool recognition (Tool ID) to the mix of quality features, (where the tablet acknowledges all the personalized configurations of every pen or mouse), an added bonus for any serious user. The one accompanying latex-free cushioned Grip Pen also provides extra comfort and reduces tension. This ergonomic stylus even comes with ten replaceable pen nibs (4 different types) for various writing and drawing results.

Tip #3 Extra accessories are available for the Intuos4 such as an array of different pen types ranging from the Classic Pen for a more natural, day-to-day work and feel to the sophisticated Airbrush for unbelievably realistic paintings and other art designs.

All of the Intuos4 graphic tablets are specially designed to support BOTH standard and wide screen monitors as well as multiple monitor work stations.  However, Intuos4 pen tablets provide optimal performance with Wide Screen Formats due to their 16:10 aspect ratio. Most graphics professionals have described the Intuos4 pen tablet as a “worthwhile investment” and even an “essential tool” for serious graphic artists or for those who spend long hours using artistic software.

Tip #4 The Intuos4 pen tablets have been enhanced with technological breakthroughs such as:

- ambidexterity allowing users to reverse the tablet to accommodate left handed and right handed individuals

-  increased precision for working with the finest of details combined with easier and faster access to editing, navigation, and media control

-  the highest pressure sensitivity (2048) of all pen tablets thus far plus the astonishing lowest pen tip activation pressure to capture every nuance with a feather-like touch

That said, there are still 4 different sizes to choose from!

• Intuos4 Small (6×4) is easily portable with more features than the Bamboo series and perfect for small desk spaces yet affordable. It has 2 less ExpressKeys than the 3 larger sizes and the show-settings function (which helps you remember which shortcut is assigned to each key) is a pop-up display on the monitor screen.

The following Intuos4 sizes have a total of 8 ExpressKeys accompanied with an OLED illuminated display directly on the tablet. Remembering customized shortcuts becomes a breeze and a blessed time-saver.

• Intuos4 Medium (9×6), the most popular size, benefits more professional work yet is still an excellent size for cramped spaces.  It  is a perfect traveling companion for the laptop and ideal for serious students on the go.

• Intuos4 Large (13×8) caters to CAD users and illustrators who may desire a larger surface area, artists who are used to drawing or painting with large sweeping motions, and professionals with elaborate artistic ideas and highly detailed expectations like professional technicians and industrial designers in any industry including automobile, textile and fashion. It is also optimized for work in single screen or for multiple monitor work stations and is ideal for editing HDTV videos.

• Intuos4 Extra Large (18×12) is geared towards sophisticated and high-performance work involving precision and accurate results like professional digital imagery, audio-visual technicians, graphic artists, animators and architects. It also greatly assists professional photo-retouching artists and illustrators with challenging endeavors, allowing for ample work surface accommodating large artwork and wider sweeping strokes. (The Intuos4 XL is the only pen tablet in this series with an integrated USB cable, therefore it is not as portable nor as easy to store as the other smaller Intuos4 pen tablets which have a detachable USB cable which detaches from the computer and the tablet.)

Tip #5 Remember, the larger your tablet surface, the more you will need to move your arms which may be viewed as a disadvantage to some users.  However, the larger the graphic tablet drawing area, the more precise you can be.

NOTE: Due to new technological features and components, all Intuos4 digitizer pens are exclusively designed for use on the Intuos4 Graphic Tablet series.

Touching pen to screen: Professional

Cintiq 21UX & Cintiq 12WX

Cintiq is the combination of all the quality features found in the top of the line Intuos3 graphic tablet with an integrated LCD monitor. The result: a state of the art monitor that allows you to write or draw directly on the screen with unparalleled accuracy and control!

The Cintiq (which comes with an Intuos3 Grip Pen for optimal comfort and fatigue prevention) will greatly improve work flow and efficiency while providing spectacular, detailed results in any professional field ranging from industrial designers, audio-editors, photo editors and animators to doctors, educators and story-board creators requiring faster visual effects. This interactive pen display, with leading edge technology, literally becomes your digitizer canvas or easel.

Tip #6 Many claim to have improved productivity by as much as 100% thanks to the ultimate working / drawing freedom and comfort a Cintiq provides.

The extra convenience of being totally adjustable to any angle and for any purpose (on your desk or on your knees) makes Cintiq the holy grail of the Wacom graphics tablets and obviously, the most expensive.

Yet again, there are 2 Cintiqs to choose from. First, they differ in size, measured diagonally, from the small 12.1” to the large 21.3”.

• Cintiq 12WX (1280 x 800 native resolution) is very light (4.4lbs) and portable thanks to an extra cable and a converter box to keep it small and lightweight. It is half the price of the other Cintiq model, boasts 2 more ExpressKeys than its larger brother (10 in all), features a smooth, flat surface, and has an aspect ratio of 16:10, perfect for wide screen monitors.

Tip #7 Due to its small size, you may want to add the Cintiq 12WX to a multi-monitor set-up. If you are a very serious artist or a technical designer, it is recommended that you save for the larger Cintiq model.

• Cintiq 21UX (1600 x 1200 native resolution) is the “cream of the crop” for pixel perfect results and adjustability. Weighing in at 22.4 lbs, it’s has an aspect ratio of 4:3 (standard resolution).  This larger Cintiq version boasts a durable, textured, scratch-resistant surface (with an anti-glare coating) to enhance the pen on paper feeling.  Depending on your working preferences, there are a variety of available digitizer input devices to choose from like the the Classic Pen, the Airbrush or the famous 6D Art Pen with rotation sensitivity. But even when just using its partner Grip Pen, it easily outperforms any graphic tablet on the market.

A Graphic Tablet For Everyone

When trying to choose between all of these great Wacom contenders, wallet and desk size will always be an issue. However, there is a perfect graphic tablet for everyone depending on your working preferences and your profession.

Everyday users and beginners for home and basic office duties and younger students will delight in Bamboo, and  Bamboo Fun..

Educators, students, conference hosts and seminar conductors will find the Wireless Graphire Bluetooth graphic tablet an awesome and invaluable cordless device.

Professionals at home or at the office in all precision-specific fields will require and thoroughly enjoy the Intuos4 Small & Intuos4 Medium (Academic specials for students and schools do exist for the Bamboo Fun and the Intuos4.)

Serious illustrators, educators in any field, technical designers and artists demanding elaborate detail and high pixel perfection will greatly benefit from the larger Intuos4 models and will absolutely love the freedom, comfort, efficiency and convenience of drawing directly on the screen with the Cintiq … and for many users – those virtues remain priceless.

Intuos3 Grip Pen

If you still  have doubts about which graphic tablet will suit you best, we would be happy to help you choose the perfect pen tablet for you.  Just drop us a note at contactus@drawittablet.com.

All of the above products can be found at www.DRAWitTablet.com

Staff at

updated May 2009

Touched by a Tablet – Part 1

Wacom Graphic Tablet Basics – Part 1

Many people are still wondering what are computer pen tablets.
Let us introduce you to the Wacom graphic tablets…

There you are:  you have finally decided to replace your regular computer mouse with a graphics tablet. Whatever your reasons may be for wanting one, like…

needing more precision and speed,

searching for a digital way to draw,

requiring something more accurate than a mouse

struggling with or trying to relieve wrist, finger and hand pain

improving your digital writing, drawing, graphics or photo retouching skills,

looking for an easier way to navigate and interact with your computer either on your lap or far away

…you are now faced with a very major decision: amongst all the numerous graphics tablets out there, which one would best suit your needs and your budget?

The Award Winning Wacom is world renowned for its top quality graphics tablet (also known as pen tablet) technology and is continually improving their products and searching for new harmonious ways to interact with a computer.  The different  Wacom models  include:

1. Wireless Graphire Bluetooth (the oldest pen tablet),
2. Bamboo / Bamboo Touch (the newest tablets featuring pen and touch input)
3. Intuos4 (the 4th generation of Intuos and a recent addition to the graphic tablet world) and
4. Cintiq (the one and only pen-on-monitor-screen experience).

Compare Wacom tablets

The Basics

Each and every Wacom graphics tablet:

a) provides a comfortable design,
b) offers application and tool settings,
c) is compatible with Macintosh and Windows,
d) supports wide screen format and multiple monitor displays,
e) is easy to install and use, thanks to Wacom’s Plug & Play technology,
f) comes equipped with a USB cable (except for the Wireless Graphire Bluetooth), and
g) is partnered with a programmable, cordless and battery free ergonomic pen (except for Bamboo Touch)

Therefore, your decision will be based on the following main differences between these major models:

Multi-Touch input: using a tap of finger or the gestures of two fingers to control the computer cursor and command navigation tasks

Pressure sensitivity of the pen tip and its eraser (when present) is measured in levels: 512 levels for the Graphire Bluetooth wireless graphic tablets and the Bamboo Pen drawing tablets, 1024 levels for the Bamboo Pen & Touch series and  Cintiq pen displays,  and 2048 levels (the highest thus far) for the new Intuos4 pen tablets.

Resolution, measured in lines per square inch, is marked at 2,540 for the Bamboo series and 5,080 for the Intuos4 and Cintiq models. Based on these two differences alone, if one needs or desires more precision and sharper results, the Intuos4 or the Cintiq are by far the better choices.

Size relates to the active area of the graphics tablet, which is the drawing/writing area and not the actual size of the tablet. If space is really a tight issue, make sure you take into consideration the entire dimensions of the graphics tablet.

Since the active area of a tablet matches your computer screen no matter what size it is (this is due to Wacom’s ingenious Mapping Technology) don’t let a smaller sized Wacom tablet fool you: the smaller sizes of a particular model, offer just as many features as the larger ones of the same model.  Size becomes a concern when considering desk space, portability, and user preferences.

Tip #1 For small working environments, every  Bamboo,  Intuos4 Small or Intuos4 Medium are all wonderful options.

Touching a tablet: Beginners

Students, instructors, budding artists, photo editors, office workers, graphic tablet newcomers and touch input enthusiasts can choose between the variety of  Bamboo and the wireless Graphire Bluetooth.

Let’s start with the five, slim Bamboo models.

Bamboo / Bamboo Touch

Bamboo starts off with single-input tablets:

(1)  Bamboo Touch (small, black) with this sleek tablet,  you command your computer with just a touch of a finger. Multi-Touch input plus 4 ExpressKeys allow you to glide quickly and easily through normal mouse related tasks and beyond with simple finger taps or gestures.  No pen.  No software.  Pure and simple.

(2)  Bamboo Pen (small, black) specified mostly for office work rather than artistic tasks, it offers the basic software for pen-only input to perform handwritten annotations, mark up documents, jot down notes and sign your name, sketch and even draw.  No need for any extra art related software or ExpressKeys.  If the budget is as tight as your desk space, this is the perfect graphics tablet for you.

Wacom then merges the Multi-Touch input with Pen input into one Bamboo tablet. The pressure-sensitivity is DOUBLED for more precision, all 4 ExpressKesys are present for keyboard and other application shortcuts, and touch input navigation spontaneously switches to pen mode when the stylus is near the active area of the tablet.

(3)  Bamboo Pen & Touch (small, black) is terrific and fun for children and beginners with creative minds. To get you started with digital creativity or an easy way

Bamboo Fun & Bamboo Craft Pen & Touch

to edit and retouch your photos, two software packages are included.

The other two silver versions of Bamboo Pen & Touch are Bamboo Craft, and the medium Bamboo Fun:

(4)  Bamboo Craft Pen & Touch (small, silver) is ideal for craft and scrapbooking projects. The range of possibilities is endless with the abundance of software and bonus material all geared towards enhancing photo albums,  editing, retouching and sharing photos plus other crafts.

(4)  Bamboo Fun Pen & Touch (medium, silver) the biggest Bamboo tablet, is excellent for young students, digital photographers and more creative users requiring more precision and needing more surface area to work on.  A full set of inspiring software and some bonus offers help get you on your way with remarkable results.

All Bamboo tablets are reversible, have a textured surface for a pen-on-paper feeling, and feature a glowing LED status light.

All Bamboo Pen graphic tablets (with pen input) come with a matching, programmable two-button, cordless, and battery-free digitizer pen with 3 extra pen nibs, plus an integrated red-fabric pen loop to store and protect the stylus.

Tip#2 The eraser on the Bamboo digitizer pens  is just that – an eraser. It is not pressure-sensitive.

Featuring an oldie but wireless goodie

Wacom Graphire Bluetooth Tablet

Older than all the other graphic tablets, Wacom’s only wireless pen tablet – Graphire Bluetooth – is excellent for people always on the go and for teaching environments like classrooms, seminars, business presentations and workshops where the instructor or speaker has to be far away (up to 30 feet) from the computer screen.

Anybody who hates wires, USB or serial connections, will delight in the absolute freedom of being totally detached from the computer. Imagine lounging in your favorite chair while working on your PC or Mac !

You also don’t have to worry about interrupting your work sessions, when recharging is needed after 25 hours. You can still work with this steel gray pen tablet while the battery is charging (via a power cable) at a distance of 12 feet! Plus, no interference has been reported when using other Bluetooth products in the vicinity of Wacom’s fast and sophisticated method of transmission.

Another unique feature is the liftable clear frame for easy tracing or customization of your digitizer tablet by inserting family photos, artwork, designs, or textures below the tablet cover (samples and template are included).

Despite these wonderful attributes though, serious graphic artists, designers and professionals have had some issues with less ExpressKeys for keyboard shortcuts (it has the least – only 2) and slightly delayed responsiveness.

---

If you require extra precision, more accuracy, a variety of  input tools, different pen nibs  and  extra software, then you will need the INTERMEDIATE section of Wacom Graphic Tablet Basics.

See Wacom Graphic Tablet Basics – Part 2

Staff at

updated October, 2009