The DrawingBoard VI 1 DrawingBoard VI User’s Guide TM The DrawingBoard VI family of small format and large format digitizers
The DrawingBoard VI We at GTCO CalComp are proud of our digitizer products. We strive to bring you the best the technology has to offer. We urge you to visit our Web site, where we will post the latest information regarding updates and changes that may impact the information in this User’s Guide. Navigate to: www.gtcocalcomp.
The DrawingBoard VI Table of Contents 3 Table of Contents What is DrawingBoard VI? Parts Checklist What You Will Need to Use DrawingBoard VI PC Requirements For a USB Installation For an Optional Serial Installation DrawingBoard VI Overview Active Area Menu Strip Indicator Light Transducer Setting Up Your DrawingBoard VI Preparing the Large Format DrawingBoard VI Mounting on the Stand Attaching the Optional Accessory Tray or Plan Holder Software Configuration Configuring Non-Wintab Applications Installin
Table of Contents The DrawingBoard VI Learning the Basics Using the Transducer Using the Cursor Using the Pen Learning Basic Movements Clicking and Double-Clicking Dragging Caring for the Tablet and Transducer Cleaning the Tablet Cleaning the Cursor Replacing the Pen Tip Replacing the Cordless Pen Batteries Replacing the Cordless Cursor Batteries Troubleshooting Reducing Monitor Interference Changing the Frequency of the Cordless Cursor Changing the Frequency of the Cordless Pen Changing the Frequency
The DrawingBoard VI Introduction 5 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.
Parts Checklist The DrawingBoard VI Parts Checklist DrawingBoard VI digitizing tablet Transducer (corded or cordless pen, 4-button cursor, or 16-button cursor) USB Cable Universal Mounting Brackets A CD (TabletWorks drivers, documentation, or third party software drivers) DrawingBoard VI User’s Guide (on the CD) DrawingBoard VI Quick Start Registration Card Optional Equipment RS232 cable with 9-pin connector for serial connection Power supply – required only for a serial installati
The DrawingBoard VI PC Requirements 7 What You Will Need to Use DrawingBoard VI This version of the DrawingBoard is equipped with both a USB interface and an RS-232 serial interface, which requires an optional RS232 cable and power supply. It is compatible with most industry-standard PCs. The TabletWorks CD contains drivers provided by GTCO CalComp and is the only software described in this manual. TabletWorks supports reduced functionality Wintab and TabCon-compatible applications.
Overview The DrawingBoard VI DrawingBoard VI Overview The DrawingBoard VI digitizer (large format shown here) consists of: Indicator Light Active Area Transducers Menu Strip Active Area The drawing area—the Active Area—is that portion of the tablet surface designated for digitizing. Its boundaries are marked at each corner by a right-angle crop mark on large format tablets. On small format tablets, the Active Area is delineated by the overlay – not including the menu.
The DrawingBoard VI 9 no button has been pressed for one to five minutes, depending on the type of transducer you are using. To reactivate a sleeping transducer, press one of its buttons. Cursors The cursor is similar in appearance to a mouse, except that it has an attached lens with crosshairs for highly accurate detail work. Cursors are available in 4- or 16-button models. In addition, there is a special 16button cursor available with high-accuracy tablets.
Installation The DrawingBoard VI Setting Up Your DrawingBoard VI The instructions below describe how to set up your DrawingBoard VI. Before you begin, please take a moment to fill out and mail the Warranty Registration Card. Preparing the Large Format DrawingBoard VI Mounting on the Stand You can place your DrawingBoard VI on a table, desk, or drafting table. Or, you can mount your DrawingBoard VI on a stand or a pedestal.
The DrawingBoard VI Installation 11 Software Configuration Software drivers provide the communication bridge between your digitizing software application and your DrawingBoard VI. You should install only the drivers necessary for the DrawingBoard VI to work with your application software. If you are not sure which drivers are required, consult with your application vendor.
Installation The DrawingBoard VI 1 Connect the corded transducer – cursor or pen – to the appropriate jack on the digitizer’s Connector Panel. The connector is keyed and will fit only the correct jack. Do not force it. Transducer USB Power (POINTER) (USB) (9V DC) Serial (RS232) Power Switch (I/O) Controller Box DrawingBoard VI Connector Panel (large format shown here) USB Connection The DrawingBoard VI USB port connection is USB 1.1 and 2.0 compatible.
The DrawingBoard VI 13 Installation Optional RS232 Serial Connection 1 Connect the RS232 serial cable to the serial jack on the Connector Panel. The connector is keyed and will fit only the correct jack. Do not force it. Connect the other end to an RS232 serial port on your computer. 2 Plug the power supply into an AC outlet. Connect the power supply to the appropriate jack on the Connector Panel. Turn the Power Switch on. The digitizer will beep once, indicating it has power.
Tablet Customization The DrawingBoard VI Customizing the Tablet You can customize your DrawingBoard VI digitizer and transducer to suit your individual work requirements using TabletWorks. TabletWorks is a Windows program included with the Digitizer Software that helps you use the full capabilities of your DrawingBoard VI. You can map your digitizer to the screen area and program stylus and cursor buttons with custom macros. To learn how to use TabletWorks, please refer to TabletWorks Help on the CD.
The DrawingBoard VI Tablet Customization 15 Selecting a Pre-Programmed Setup There are three pre-programmed setups available with DrawingBoard VI: GTCO DP5 High Resolution Binary Summagraphics MM 1201 CalComp 2000 ASCII These setups are commonly used within software applications as required tablet formats. They are stored in Save Areas Default, 2, and 3, respectively. Check the manual that came with your software package to see if your application requires one of these pre-programmed setups.
Tablet Customization The DrawingBoard VI Selecting a Custom Setup You can setup specific tablet options by turning different combinations of Configuration keys On or Off. The available tablet options are listed below. To set up the tablet: 1 Turn on Configuration Mode by clicking on the Config/Exit key. 2 Click on the Bank key where you need to work (A, B, or C). You can determine which bank you are in by placing the transducer over one of the Bank keys.
The DrawingBoard VI Tablet Options 17 Tablet Options The following sections show the various tablet options available through Configuration keys on the Menu Strip. Follow the procedure described on the previous page, using the keys shown for the option.
Tablet Options 18 The DrawingBoard VI = Indicator light ON = Indicator light OFF Setting up resolution Resolutions up to 10,000 lpi are available on the large format, high-accuracy tablets for applications that support it.
The DrawingBoard VI Tablet Options = Indicator light ON = Indicator light OFF Adding line feed Setting up data/stop bits Setting up baud rate Setting up parity Setting corded frequency Using Summagraphics MM or CalComp 2000 commands Using ESC for 9X00 commands Sending data out of proximity Turning on pressure pen data Turning on pen height data 19
Tablet Options The DrawingBoard VI = Indicator light ON = Indicator light OFF Turning on pen tilt data Turning on pen tilt correction Setting up CTS line enable Removing CR on ASCII formats Controlling pen sound Controlling tablet speaker
The DrawingBoard VI Recommended Setups 21 Recommended Setups for Common PC Software Applications The following sections show the Configuration key setups for some common PC software packages. Set up the Configuration keys as shown below (see Selecting a Custom Setup). The circles represent the Indicator light on the digitizer.
Recommended Setups Setting up for CADKey Using GTCO DP5 format: Using Summagraphics MM 1201 format: Setting up for DesignCAD 2-D/3-D (DOS only) Using GTCO DP5 format: Setting up for GeneriCAD Using CalComp 9100 format: Using GTCO DigiPad format: Using Summagraphics format: The DrawingBoard VI
The DrawingBoard VI Recommended Setups Setting up for MapInfo (DOS only) Using CalComp 9100 format: Using CalComp 2000 binary format: Setting up for MicroStation (DOS only) Using CalComp 9100 format: Setting up for Timberline Using CalComp 9100 format: Using Summagraphics MM 1201 binary format: 23
Recommended Setups The DrawingBoard VI Setting up for VersaCAD Using CalComp 9100 format: Restoring a Pre-Programmed Setup When you save a custom setup to one of the Save areas, the pre-programmed setup will be overwritten. To restore the original setup, set the Configuration keys as shown below, following the steps in the Selecting a Pre-Programmed Setup procedure. The circles represent the Indicator light on the digitizer.
The DrawingBoard VI Basic Usage 25 Learning the Basics You will find that using your DrawingBoard VI tablet is as easy, or easier, than using a mouse. The DrawingBoard VI transducers are more accurate than a mouse, giving you greater control over your movements. Using the Transducer The transducer does not need to be in contact with the tablet surface in order for the tablet to sense its presence. It can be detected up to 1/2" above the Active Area.
Basic Usage The DrawingBoard VI Using the Pen There are three variations of pens: the click tip, the pressure tip, and the lite touch tip. The variations among these pens are tilt- and height-sensitivity. On all three pens, the pen tip is Button 0 and is used as the pick, or left mouse, button. The lower side button is Button 1 and the upper side button is Button 2. The functions these buttons provide are defined through the TabletWorks software, or through your own software application.
The DrawingBoard VI Basic Usage 27 Learning Basic Movements The DrawingBoard VI transducers provide all the basic movements of a mouse, including clicking, double-clicking and dragging. Clicking and Double-Clicking Clicking is the action of making a selection. You may be selecting a key on the digitizer surface, or making a selection from your computer monitor screen. To click, place the transducer, or move the screen pointer using the transducer, to the item to be selected.
Tablet Care The DrawingBoard VI Caring for the Tablet and Transducer Follow these precautions at all times to avoid damaging your DrawingBoard VI: Avoid discharging static electricity to the tablet. Do not place heavy objects on the tablet surface. Do not use sharp objects, such as compasses or knives, on the tablet surface. Do not use the tablet surface for any purpose other than drawing, tracing, or digitizing. Do not drill any holes on the digitizer or controller.
The DrawingBoard VI Replacing Batteries 29 Replacing the Cordless Pen Batteries The pens require two 393 silver oxide batteries. The average battery life is 200 hours. Do not use ZINC AIR batteries as replacement batteries. They will corrode the electronics of the pen. To replace the batteries: 1 Unscrew the pen cap. Hold the pen from the bottom and gently slide off the pen cover to expose the batteries.
Replacing Batteries The DrawingBoard VI Replacing the Cordless Cursor Batteries The cordless cursor requires two AAA batteries. The average battery life for the cursor batteries is 2,000 hours. To replace the batteries: 1 Place the cursor face down in the palm of your hand. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws located on the bottom of the cursor (see figure). Remove the cursor base. 2 Remove the old batteries from the battery casings.
The DrawingBoard VI Troubleshooting 31 Troubleshooting We want your experience with your DrawingBoard VI tablet to be a successful one. If you have a problem, please follow the steps below. 1 Reread this User’s Guide to verify you have performed the correct steps. 2 Read the topics below to check for a solution to your problem. Review the checklists, as well as the Troubleshooting Chart. Keep in mind that the problem could be your computer, your display, or your software, instead of the digitizer.
Troubleshooting The DrawingBoard VI To return to the default frequency, repeat the above process. When you replace the cursor batteries, the cursor is automatically reset to the default frequency. Changing the Frequency of the Cordless Pen Press both side buttons and the tip simultaneously and hold for approximately three seconds. To return to the default frequency, repeat the above process. When you replace the pen batteries, the pen resets to the default frequency.
The DrawingBoard VI 33 Computer Checklist Is the computer plugged into a live outlet? Did you turn on the computer? Does the computer work with any of your software? Try one of your other programs. If the computer has a diagnostic diskette, use it.
Troubleshooting The DrawingBoard VI Did the software work in the past? If the software package worked with the tablet in the past, then the problem lies with the new setup. Check all the connectors. Is the tablet still plugged into the same port? If yes, reset the tablet by unplugging and replugging the USB connector, or, if you are using serial, unplug and replug the power supply. Restart the software.
The DrawingBoard VI Troubleshooting 35 Troubleshooting Chart The following table lists common DrawingBoard VI problems, their causes and their solutions. Problem Frozen screen pointer Cause Solution Transducer is in Sleep Mode. Press any button on the transducer. Menu Strip is in Configuration Mode. If the configuration light is on, click on the Config/ Exit key on the Menu Strip. Tablet plugged into the wrong serial port on the computer.
Troubleshooting The DrawingBoard VI Returning your Tablet for Repair If you think you have a defective tablet, first see all topics in this section (above) and visit our Web site at www.gtcocalcomp.com/supportgtcocalcompcontact.htm for the latest support information. If you are still unable to properly operate your digitizer system, call Technical Support at 410.312.9221, or +49 (0) 89 370012-0 (Europe). Or, email us at gtcocalcomp.support@gtcocalcomp.com.
The DrawingBoard VI Parts 37 Parts and Accessories The following table lists the DrawingBoard VI systems and parts available for purchase. To order any of the items listed below, please contact GTCO CalComp at 1.800.344.4723 (Toll Free), or 410.381.6688, fax to 410.290.9065, visit us online at www.gtcocalcomp.com, or email to calcomp.sales@gtcocalcomp.com. Tablets Model Description DB6-1212 12 x 12” Active Area DB6-1218 12 x 18” Active Area The two small format models above are available with ± .
Glossary The DrawingBoard VI Glossary Accuracy The similarity of a distance measured by the tablet with the actual distance. When we specify that the accuracy of a tablet is ± .010 inches, we mean that every point in the Active Area is within .010 inches of where it should be. ASCII Abbreviation for American Standard Code for Information Interchange. Baud rate The rate of speed that data flows between a host computer and the digitizer. It is the number of bits transmitted per second.
The DrawingBoard VI Glossary 39 Format The form in which data is sent from the tablet. The DrawingBoard VI tablet can output 32 different formats. Frequency The number of waves that pass a fixed point in one second. Height See Proximity. Increment modes This mode is used with other operating modes. Data points are sent only if the transducer has moved the required increment distance in either the X or Y direction and has satisfied the requirements of the operating mode.
Glossary The DrawingBoard VI Output format The system of characters used by the DrawingBoard VI tablet for outputting data. Parity A type of error detection where a bit is inserted into every character the digitizer transmits. The status of the parity bit confirms that the data was not altered during transmission. Pen tilt correction An option that allows for tilt correction in the pressure pen. Pen tilt data An option that allows output of tilt data in the pressure pen.
The DrawingBoard VI Glossary 41 Stop bits One or two stop bits are transmitted with each data byte. They mark a completed transmission. Track mode The digitizer transmits coordinate data points continuously, but only while the cursor button or pen tip is depressed. This mode is also called Switch Stream by some manufacturers. Transducer The tool used to digitize; it may be either a cursor or pen. X direction The horizontal direction across the face of the tablet.
Regulatory Statements The DrawingBoard VI Regulatory Statements and Warranty Radio and Television Interference The user is cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment. This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits of a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules.
The DrawingBoard VI Declaration of Conformity 43 Declaration of Conformity The “CE” mark on this device indicates compliance under the EMC 89/ 336/EEC Directive. Declaration of conformity according to ISO/IEC Guide 22 and EN 45014 Manufacturer’s Name: GTCO CalComp, Inc. Manufacturer’s Address: 7125 Riverwood Drive Columbia, MD 21046 U.S.A.
Regulatory Statements The DrawingBoard VI European Union Emission Directive This product is in conformity with the protection requirements of EU Council Directive 89/366/ECC on the approximation of the laws of the Member States relating to electromagnetic compatibility. This product has been tested and found to comply with the limits for Class B Information Technology Equipment according to CISPR 22/ European Standard EN55022.
The DrawingBoard VI Regulatory Statements 45 Japan Bescheinigung des Herstellers/Importeurs Heirmit wird bescheinigt, dass der/die/das DrawingBoard VI (Geraet, Typ, Bezeichnung) im Uebereinstimmung mit den Bestimmungen der Vfg 1046/1984 (Amtsblattverfuegung) Funk-Entstort ist. Der Deutschen Bundespost wurde das Inverkehrbringen dieses Geraetes angezeigt und die Berechtigung zur Ueberpruefung der Serie auf Einhaltung der Bestimmungen eingeraumt. GTCO CalComp, Inc.
Warranty The DrawingBoard VI Limited Warranty for the DrawingBoard VI GTCO CalComp, Inc. warrants these products to be free from defects in material and workmanship under the following terms. Complete and return the enclosed warranty registration card to ensure that your products are covered with this warranty. Coverage Parts and labor are warranted for one (1) year from the date of the first consumer purchase for the digitizer tablet, controller, transducers, and tablet accessories.
The DrawingBoard VI Warranty 47 Technical Support Web-based Technical Support is available free of charge at: www.gtcocalcomp.com, where current driver releases, as well as comprehensive technical support, troubleshooting, Technical Bulletins and FAQs can be found. Telephone Technical Support is available free of charge to the original consumer for a period of 90 days from the date of purchase of the product.
The DrawingBoard VI Corporate Headquarters European Headquarters 7125 Riverwood Drive Columbia, Maryland 21046 Tel: 410.381.6688 Support: 410.312.9221 Sales: 800.344.4723 Fax: 410.290.9065 GTCO CalComp GmbH Kreiller Strasse 24 81673 Munich Germany Tel: + 49 (0) 89 370012-0 Fax: + 49 (0) 89 370012-12 www.gtcocalcomp.com Support: 410.312.9221 DrawingBoard VI TM Copyright© 2008 GTCO CalComp, Inc. DrawingBoard VI is a trademark of GTCO CalComp, Inc.
