How does a graphics tablet work: why do I need a graphics tablet.

More and more photographers, designers, professional artists and just creative people recently choose graphic tablets for work. What are these devices used for and what criteria should you rely on when choosing, this article will tell.

What is a graphics tablet and how does it work

In simple terms, a graphics tablet is a pen (pencil) and paper converted to electronic format. The two main components of the device are the base and the feather. The pen can be replaced with a special mouse, if desired, which will generally perform the same functions.

The principle of operation of such devices is the use of electromagnetic fields. A mesh of special conductors that receive electromagnetic pulses from the pen is built into the base of the structure. The last user to navigate the grid, creating an image immediately transmitted to the computer monitor to which the connection is made.

If we talk about the types of feathers, then according to the principle of nutrition there can be only three of them:

• wired;
• wireless (battery powered);
• without batteries (the operation of the device is based on the principle of EM resonance).

Reference! Professional artists are not very flattering about battery-powered models due to their relatively heavy weight and shifted center of gravity.

Why do I need a graphics tablet

Many people mistakenly think that such a technique can be fully used only by artists, but graphic tablets will be useful not only to them. Currently, they are widely used for various purposes:

1. Works in many graphical applications.
2. For processing and retouching photos and images.
3. In the field of web design.
4. In the field of 3D modeling.
5. In the work of CAD programs.
6. In the field of business for electronic signatures.
7. To create handwritten notes, charts, graphs, tables, etc.

As is clear from the above list, such a technique may be useful not only to designers and businessmen, but generally to any PC user who wants to expand the available functionality a computer.

What to look for when choosing a tablet for drawing

In order to opt for the most suitable model, you must have an idea of ​​the main criteria that experts rely on when choosing graphic tablets.

First of all, you need to pay attention to the size of the working area of ​​the device. The modern market offers the buyer a large number of models with the most diverse workspace format, and it is better for the user to dwell on the one with which he is used to working in a “paper” form.

The second important criterion will be the aspect ratio of the device. If you plan to connect the tablet to a widescreen monitor, you can opt for the “wide” model, which is wider than the standard one.

Reference! If you plan to connect the device to a square-shaped monitor, then you should not take a narrow tablet, since in this case a certain area of ​​the device will simply not be available for drawing.

An important parameter is the sensitivity of the surface of the model. Sensitivity is measured in so-called levels, and for professional artists and designers the level of sensitivity should be different from the level for beginners. Novice users usually have enough models with a sensitivity of no more than 512 levels.

Next important criterion–resolution. Resolution determines the ability of the device to “recognize” pen movements on the surface. Models with high resolution for professional use are usually not cheap, but models with a resolution of up to 2000 dpi are quite suitable for beginners.

Reference! In addition to the above, professionals should also pay attention to the sensitivity of the device to the angle of inclination of the pen in degrees.

If the user is going to use several tools, then in order to facilitate the work, he is better create a separate profile for each of them, because the device can respond differently to a new pen or mouse.

Based on the above criteria and approaching the issue as carefully and deliberately as possible, you can easily choose a graphics tablet for amateur or professional use.