Apple Graphics Tablet

Apple Graphics Tablet
Apple Graphics Tablet (1979) with stylus
Manufacturer	Apple Computer, Inc. / Summagraphics
Type	Graphics digitizer tablet
Discontinued	1985
Price	US$650 (1979 retail)
Interface	Apple II peripheral card slot
Compatible	Apple II, II Plus, IIe
Dimensions	15.5" W × 15.75" D × 0.75" H
Weight	Approximately 3 lbs
Model	A2M0029

The Apple Graphics Tablet was Apple Computer's first graphics digitizer, introduced in 1979 for the Apple II series computers. Manufactured by Summagraphics and rebranded by Apple, it represented one of the earliest consumer-oriented graphics input devices, predating the widespread adoption of the mouse by five years. The tablet was initially pulled from the market due to FCC radio frequency interference violations but was re-released in a revised version in 1983. Despite its innovative technology and association with musician Todd Rundgren's pioneering "Utopia Graphics System" software, the tablet's high price and limited software support prevented widespread adoption.

Development and Release

Origins

The Apple Graphics Tablet emerged from Apple's early recognition that graphical input would become essential for personal computing. In 1978, Apple began exploring alternatives to keyboard input for graphics creation, leading to a partnership with Summagraphics Corporation, a leader in professional digitizing technology. The device was essentially a rebranded version of Summagraphics' BitPad, modified with Apple branding and bundled software.

The tablet was developed concurrently with Todd Rundgren's involvement with the New York Institute of Technology, a pioneering center for computer graphics research. Rundgren, already famous for the soft-rock hit "I Saw the Light," had become interested in computer graphics and developed the Utopia Graphics System specifically for the Apple Graphics Tablet. This software represented one of the first paint programs designed for artists rather than programmers, offering 94 color options and various brush types.

First Release and FCC Issues

The original Apple Graphics Tablet launched in 1979 at a retail price of $650 (equivalent to approximately $2,680 in 2024 dollars). The tablet offered remarkable capabilities for its time:

• Resolution of 280 × 192 pixels
• Pressure-sensitive stylus
• Direct coordinate mapping to screen
• Support for tracing physical artwork

However, the first version suffered from a critical flaw: it generated significant radio frequency interference that violated FCC regulations. Since many Apple II computers were connected to television sets rather than dedicated monitors, the interference caused substantial problems for users. The FCC forced Apple to recall and discontinue the product in 1981, effectively killing its market momentum.

Second Version (1983)

Apple released a revised version of the Graphics Tablet in 1983 with improved shielding to meet FCC requirements. However, by this time, several factors limited its success:

• The KoalaPad had entered the market at a lower price point
• The Apple IIe was becoming the dominant Apple II model
• The Macintosh with its mouse-based interface was in development
• Limited software support beyond the original Utopia Graphics System

The tablet was quietly discontinued in 1985 as Apple shifted focus to the Macintosh platform and mouse-based interfaces.

Technical Specifications

Hardware Architecture

Tablet surface:

• Active area: 11" × 11"
• Technology: Electromagnetic resonance grid
• Resolution: 200 lines per inch
• Accuracy: ±0.01 inches
• Construction: Laminated surface over sensor grid

Stylus:

• Type: Passive electromagnetic resonance
• Tip: Replaceable plastic tip
• Cable: 5-foot coiled cable
• Button: Single side button for mode switching
• Weight: Approximately 1 oz

Interface card:

• Slot requirement: Any Apple II peripheral slot (typically slot 4)
• Processor: Dedicated digitizer controller
• Communication: Parallel interface to Apple II bus
• Power: Drawn from Apple II power supply

Operating Principles

The tablet used electromagnetic resonance technology:

1. Grid of wires beneath the tablet surface created electromagnetic field
2. Stylus contained resonant circuit that disturbed field when near surface
3. Controller detected position by measuring field disturbance
4. Coordinates transmitted to Apple II via interface card
5. Software interpreted coordinates as drawing commands

Sampling rate: 100 points per second Modes:

• Point mode: Single coordinate per stylus press
• Stream mode: Continuous coordinate transmission
• Increment mode: Relative position changes

Software

Utopia Graphics System

Developed by Todd Rundgren and released simultaneously with the tablet, the Utopia Graphics System was revolutionary for its time:

Features:

• 94 available colors (using Apple II hi-res color artifacting)
• Multiple brush types and sizes
• Pattern fills
• Geometric shape tools
• Animation capabilities
• Save/load functionality

System requirements:

• Apple II with 48K RAM minimum
• Apple Graphics Tablet
• Color or monochrome monitor
• Disk II floppy drive

Other Compatible Software

Limited third-party software supported the Apple Graphics Tablet:

• Apple Graphics Tablet Software Package: Basic drawing utilities
• Special Delivery: Graphics creation and slide show software
• The Complete Graphics System: Professional illustration suite
• Various CAD packages: Limited support in professional applications

Macintosh-Era Graphics Tablets

While Apple never produced a graphics tablet for the Macintosh, numerous third-party manufacturers filled this niche during the ADB era (1987-1999).

Major ADB Graphics Tablet Manufacturers

Wacom

Wacom dominated the Macintosh graphics tablet market with several ADB models:

ArtPad series:

• ArtPad: Entry-level 4" × 5" tablet
• ArtPad II: Improved resolution, erasing stylus
• Models: KT-0405-A (ArtPad), KT-0405-R (ArtPad II)
• Resolution: 2540 lpi
• Pressure levels: 256

ArtZ series:

• ArtZ: Professional 6" × 8" tablet
• ArtZ II: Enhanced features, improved driver support
• Model: UD-0608-A
• Resolution: 2540 lpi
• Pressure levels: 256

Digitizer II series:

• Professional large-format tablets
• Sizes: 12" × 12", 12" × 18", 18" × 25"
• Model: UD-1212-A (12" × 12")
• Used extensively in CAD and professional illustration

Technology:

• Electromagnetic resonance (EMR)
• Battery-free stylus
• Tilt sensitivity (later models)
• Programmable buttons

CalComp

CalComp (later GTCO CalComp) produced several ADB tablets:

DrawingSlate series:

• DrawingSlate: Consumer 6" × 9" tablet
• DrawingSlate II: Improved accuracy and features
• Resolution: 1000 lpi
• Compatibility: Full ADB compliance

DrawingBoard series:

• DrawingBoard II: Professional 12" × 12" and 12" × 18"
• DrawingBoard III: Enhanced resolution and accuracy
• Primary market: CAD and technical illustration

Wiz tablet:

• Entry-level tablet for education market
• Included both stylus and crosshair cursor
• Budget-oriented alternative to Wacom

Kurta

Kurta Corporation produced high-end digitizers popular with professionals:

IS/ADB series:

• IS/ONE: Professional digitizer
• IS/THREE: Advanced features for CAD
• Sizes: 12" × 12", 12" × 17", 17" × 24"
• Resolution: Up to 2540 lpi
• Unique feature: Compatibility with Apple IIGS via PenWorks NDA

XGT series:

• Lower-cost alternative to IS series
• Targeted at desktop publishing market
• ADB passthrough port included

Summagraphics

After the Apple Graphics Tablet partnership, Summagraphics continued producing Mac-compatible tablets:

SummaSketch series:

• Professional digitizers for technical drawing
• ADB interface added in late 1980s
• Popular with architects and engineers

MM series:

• MM 1201: 12" × 12" professional tablet
• MM 961: 9" × 6" compact tablet
• Included both stylus and 4-button puck

Technical Architecture (ADB Tablets)

ADB Protocol Implementation

Graphics tablets communicated via Apple Desktop Bus using extended protocols:

Device identification:

• Device type: $04 (absolute positioning device)
• Handler ID: Vendor-specific (Wacom: $3A, CalComp: $3B)
• Default address: $5
• Data rate: Up to 4800 baud equivalent

Data packet structure:

• Byte 0: Status (button state, proximity)
• Bytes 1-2: X coordinate (16-bit)
• Bytes 3-4: Y coordinate (16-bit)
• Byte 5: Pressure (8-bit)
• Byte 6: Tilt/rotation (if supported)

Tracking Technologies

Electromagnetic resonance (Wacom):

• Grid of antenna coils in tablet
• Passive LC circuit in stylus
• No battery required in stylus
• Pressure via variable capacitor

Electromagnetic induction (CalComp, Kurta):

• Active stylus with battery
• Electromagnetic field generation
• Higher power consumption
• More consistent pressure response

Capacitive (rare):

• Conductive stylus tip
• Limited pressure sensitivity
• Lower resolution
• Budget implementations only

Driver Software

System Software Support

System 6:

• Basic tablet support via Mouse control panel
• Third-party drivers required for pressure
• Limited application support

System 7:

• Improved tablet recognition
• Pressure-sensitive QuickDraw calls
• Better driver architecture

Mac OS 8-9:

• Native pressure support in many applications
• USB/ADB bridge compatibility
• Carbonized drivers for OS X transition

Third-Party Drivers

Wacom drivers:

• Versions 1.0-6.x for Classic Mac OS
• Pressure mapping controls
• Button programmability
• Application-specific settings

CalComp TabletWorks:

• Universal driver for CalComp tablets
• AutoCAD optimization
• Macro recording capabilities

Kurta PenMouse:

• Dual mouse/tablet mode
• Gesture recognition
• Template overlay support

Common Issues and Repairs

Apple Graphics Tablet (1979)

Common Problems and Solutions

Issue	Symptoms	Cause	Solution
No response	Stylus movement not detected	Interface card failure	Test card in different slot, check connections
Erratic cursor	Jumping or stuttering cursor	RF interference	Check grounding, move away from CRT
Dead zones	Areas where stylus doesn't work	Grid wire break	Professional repair required
Intermittent operation	Works sporadically	Stylus cable damage	Check cable continuity, replace if needed

ADB Graphics Tablets

ADB Tablet Troubleshooting

Problem	Likely Cause	Diagnostic Test	Repair Method
No detection	ADB chain issue	Test alone on ADB port	Check cable, clean connectors
No pressure sensitivity	Driver issue	Test in pressure-aware app	Reinstall drivers
Stylus not working	Dead stylus components	Test with different stylus	Replace stylus or components
Erratic tracking	Surface contamination	Visual inspection	Clean with isopropyl alcohol
Dead areas	Antenna grid damage	Map dead zones	Professional repair or replacement

Maintenance

Preventive Care

Regular cleaning:

• Wipe tablet surface weekly with microfiber cloth
• Clean stylus tip monthly
• Check cable integrity quarterly
• Protect from direct sunlight

Storage:

• Store stylus in holder or horizontally
• Keep tablet flat or vertical
• Protect surface from scratches
• Maintain 40-60% humidity

Cable management:

• Avoid tight coiling
• Prevent kinking at connection points
• Use cable ties for organization
• Regular inspection for damage

Calibration

Apple Graphics Tablet:

1. Run calibration utility from system disk
2. Touch stylus to indicated corners
3. Verify tracking across entire surface
4. Save calibration to disk

ADB tablets:

1. Open tablet control panel
2. Select calibration option
3. Follow on-screen prompts
4. Test in drawing application

Stylus Compatibility

Wacom Pen Compatibility

Wacom maintained backwards compatibility across many generations:

Compatible series:

• UD series pens work with ArtZ tablets
• UP series pens work with ArtPad tablets
• Some Intuos 1 pens work with later ADB tablets
• Penabled PC styluses often compatible

Identification:

• Model number on pen barrel
• Test in tablet control panel
• Check Wacom compatibility database

Replacement Options

Original replacements:

• Wacom UP-401E (ArtPad)
• Wacom UP-801E (ArtZ)
• CalComp styluses (model-specific)
• Kurta pens (not cross-compatible)

Modern alternatives:

• Some Samsung S-Pen models (Wacom EMR)
• Older ThinkPad tablet pens
• Fujitsu tablet PC styluses
• Check compatibility before purchase

Modern Usage

ADB to USB Conversion

Hardware solutions:

• Griffin iMate (discontinued)
• Wombat ADB-USB converter
• Waxbee project (DIY solution)
• Custom Teensy-based converters

Compatibility issues:

• Limited driver support in modern OS
• No pressure sensitivity in OS X 10.4+
• Basic mouse emulation only
• Latency approximately 10-20ms

Emulation and Preservation

Using with emulators:

• Mini vMac: No tablet support
• Basilisk II: Limited ADB emulation
• SheepShaver: Basic tablet recognition
• QEMU: No tablet support

Digital preservation:

• Document serial numbers
• Photograph all components
• Backup driver software
• Create calibration profiles

Software Applications

Graphics Software Supporting Tablets

For Apple II (Graphics Tablet):

• Utopia Graphics System
• Dazzle Draw
• MousePaint (limited support)
• Printographer

For Macintosh (ADB tablets):

• Adobe Photoshop 2.0-9.0
• Adobe Illustrator 3.0-10.0
• Macromedia FreeHand
• Fractal Design Painter
• CorelDRAW (Mac versions)
• Canvas
• SuperPaint
• MacDraw Pro

CAD/Technical Software

• AutoCAD for Macintosh
• VectorWorks (MiniCAD)
• ArchiCAD
• Claris CAD
• Dreams CAD

Cultural Impact

Apple Graphics Tablet Legacy

The Apple Graphics Tablet, despite its commercial failure, established important precedents:

• Demonstrated Apple's early commitment to graphics
• Proved market existed for graphics input devices
• Influenced development of mouse-based interfaces
• Showed importance of FCC compliance in design

The tablet's association with Todd Rundgren brought attention from the music and art communities, establishing a connection between creative professionals and Apple that continues today.

Professional Adoption

Graphics tablets became essential tools in several industries:

Graphic design:

• Desktop publishing revolution
• Digital illustration
• Photo retouching
• Logo design

Animation:

• Disney adopted Wacom tablets for "Beauty and the Beast" (1991)
• Revolutionized 2D animation workflow
• Enabled paperless animation pipeline

CAD/Architecture:

• Precision input for technical drawing
• Template overlay capabilities
• Reduced repetitive strain injuries

Medical imaging:

• Radiology annotations
• Surgical planning
• Medical illustration

Collecting and Values

Apple Graphics Tablet

Rarity: Very rare, especially first version Condition factors:

• Complete with stylus and manual
• Working interface card
• Original software
• FCC-compliant second version more common

Typical values (2024):

• Complete working system: $800-1500
• Tablet only: $200-400
• Interface card: $100-200
• Original software: $50-100

ADB Graphics Tablets

Collectibility factors:

• Wacom tablets most desirable
• Complete systems with software valuable
• Professional large-format tablets sought after
• Working styluses increasingly rare

Market values:

• Wacom ArtPad II: $50-150
• Wacom ArtZ II: $75-200
• Kurta IS/ADB: $100-300
• CalComp DrawingSlate: $30-80

See Also

• Apple Desktop Bus
• Apple Mouse