Re: drawing tools

I've been using a Wacom tablet for several years.

Tablets are available in several sizes, from 4" x 5" to 12" x 18". 
I'm using a 6" x 8" tablet, and I wouldn't recommend anything smaller 
if it's intended use is drawing. The larger tablets are often used by 
artists who hold the tablet in their laps rather than on the desk.

The tablet can be daisy-chained with the mouse, so that you have both 
connected. I find that I rarely use the mouse, since the tablet's pen 
is easier and more ergonomic for me.

The tablet and pen runs on its own software which allows various 
configurations. With the software, the tablet can be mapped to the 
screen, so that moving the pen all the way across the tablet moves 
the cursor all the way across the screen.

This system allows precise control of the cursor (i.e., whatever tool 
you're using in a graphics program), and is pressure-sensitive: e.g., 
using Photoshop's air brush, pressing the pen down harder increases 
the paint spray.

The newest versions are available with USB connections, and that 
should be considered if you're thinking of getting a computer with 
USB ports. (BTW, there are some PCI cards that can be placed in a 
computer to give it USB ports.)

The tablets are not cheap, but they're worth it.

I'd suggest visiting wacom's (http://www.wacom.com) site to get an 
idea of what's available. Then find a computer store where you can 
have a hands-on trial.


--Jeff





>I'm just starting out - at developing my own graphics for animation in
>Flash.   I do not find it that easy to draw accurately with the mouse.. so
>I'm thinking.. there must be some sort of tool that I'm missing, that would
>allow me to use a pointer or light pen and draw on a tablet... or an
>electronic pencil that plugs into the mouse port.. What's your experience
>with this???   Maybe I just have a 'bad' mouse.
>
>Thanks!

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