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{{Infobox computer peripheral
{{Infobox computer peripheral
| name        = Apple Graphics Tablet
| image = [[File:Apple Graphics Tablet (Apple II).jpg]]
| image       = [[File:Apple Graphics Tablet 1979.jpg|250px]]
| caption = Apple Graphics Tablet (Model A2M0029)
| caption     = Apple Graphics Tablet (1979) with stylus
| manufacturer = Apple Computer, Inc.
| manufacturer = Apple Computer, Inc. / Summagraphics
| type = Graphics tablet
| type         = Graphics digitizer tablet
| released = 1979
| release date = 1979 (first version), 1983 (second version)
| discontinued = 1984
| discontinued = 1985
| price = US$650
| price       = US$650 (1979 retail)
| interface = Peripheral card (670-0012)
| interface   = Apple II peripheral card slot
| compatible = Apple II, Apple II Plus, Apple IIe, Apple IIGS
| compatible   = Apple II, II Plus, IIe
| dimensions = ~380 mm × 380 mm × 25 mm (15" × 15")
| dimensions   = 15.5" W × 15.75" D × 0.75" H
| weight = ~1.5 kg
| weight      = Approximately 3 lbs
| predecessor = None
| model       = A2M0029
| successor = None
| 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.
The '''Apple Graphics Tablet''' (model A2M0029) was Apple's digitizing tablet for the [[Apple II]] family, released in 1979. Priced at US$650 (approximately $1,980 adjusted for inflation), it allowed users to draw images at 280 × 192 resolution—years before the mouse became a standard input device.


== Development and Release ==
== Background ==


=== Origins ===
The Graphics Tablet was released during a period when graphical input devices were rare and expensive. At $650, it represented a significant investment for Apple II owners. The tablet predated the mouse by several years, making it one of the earliest consumer-accessible graphical input devices.


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.
== Design ==


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.
=== Physical Construction ===
The Graphics Tablet measures approximately 15 inches × 15 inches (380 mm × 380 mm), significantly larger than modern tablets:
* Plastic frame housing
* Transparent overlay sheet
* Wire matrix sensing surface
* Tethered stylus


=== First Release and FCC Issues ===
The overlay protected the sensing matrix and provided a smooth drawing surface. Over time, these overlays yellowed or cracked, particularly in early units.


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:
=== Sensing Technology ===
* Resolution of 280 × 192 pixels
The tablet uses capacitive sensing through a wire matrix:
* Pressure-sensitive stylus
* X and Y coordinate wires arranged in a grid pattern
* Direct coordinate mapping to screen
* Changes in capacitance indicate stylus position
* Support for tracing physical artwork
* Wires held in position with adhesive
* Age causes adhesive failure and wire displacement


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.
=== Connection ===
The Graphics Tablet requires a dedicated interface card (part number 670-0012) installed in an Apple II expansion slot. The first revision connected via a wire with a header that plugged directly into the card. The second revision used dual DB-9 connectors.


=== Second Version (1983) ===
== Revisions ==


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:
=== First Revision (1979) ===
* The KoalaPad had entered the market at a lower price point
* Wire with header connector (no DB-9)
* The Apple IIe was becoming the dominant Apple II model
* No FCC approval
* The Macintosh with its mouse-based interface was in development
* Caused RF interference with television sets
* Limited software support beyond the original Utopia Graphics System
* Pulled from market after FCC intervention


The tablet was quietly discontinued in 1985 as Apple shifted focus to the Macintosh platform and mouse-based interfaces.
=== Second Revision (1980+) ===
 
* Dual DB-9 connectors
== Technical Specifications ==
* FCC approved
 
* Improved RF shielding
=== Hardware Architecture ===
* Limited market success due to timing (Macintosh and mouse approaching)
 
'''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:
# Grid of wires beneath the tablet surface created electromagnetic field
# Stylus contained resonant circuit that disturbed field when near surface
# Controller detected position by measuring field disturbance
# Coordinates transmitted to Apple II via interface card
# 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 ==
== Software ==


=== Utopia Graphics System ===
The tablet shipped with Apple Graphics Tablet Software (1979):
* Drawing application
* 280 × 192 resolution support
* Required interface card present to load


Developed by Todd Rundgren and released simultaneously with the tablet, the Utopia Graphics System was revolutionary for its time:
Additional third-party software supported the tablet for various drawing and design applications.


'''Features:'''
== Specifications ==
* 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:'''
{| class="wikitable"
* Apple II with 48K RAM minimum
|-
* Apple Graphics Tablet
! Parameter !! Value
* 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) ===
 
{| class="wikitable" style="width:90%; text-align:center;"
|+'''Common Problems and Solutions'''
! Issue !! Symptoms !! Cause !! Solution
|-
|-
| No response || Stylus movement not detected || Interface card failure || Test card in different slot, check connections
| Model number || A2M0029
|-
|-
| Erratic cursor || Jumping or stuttering cursor || RF interference || Check grounding, move away from CRT
| Interface card || 670-0012
|-
|-
| Dead zones || Areas where stylus doesn't work || Grid wire break || Professional repair required
| Active area || ~12" × 12" (estimated)
|-
|-
| Intermittent operation || Works sporadically || Stylus cable damage || Check cable continuity, replace if needed
| Resolution || 280 × 192 pixels
|}
 
=== ADB Graphics Tablets ===
 
{| class="wikitable" style="width:90%; text-align:center;"
|+'''ADB Tablet Troubleshooting'''
! Problem !! Likely Cause !! Diagnostic Test !! Repair Method
|-
|-
| No detection || ADB chain issue || Test alone on ADB port || Check cable, clean connectors
| Dimensions || ~380 mm × 380 mm × 25 mm
|-
|-
| No pressure sensitivity || Driver issue || Test in pressure-aware app || Reinstall drivers
| Connection || Wire header (rev 1) / DB-9 (rev 2)
|-
|-
| Stylus not working || Dead stylus components || Test with different stylus || Replace stylus or components
| Case material || Plastic frame, transparent overlay
|-
|-
| Erratic tracking || Surface contamination || Visual inspection || Clean with isopropyl alcohol
| Compatible systems || Apple II, II Plus, IIe, IIGS
|-
|-
| Dead areas || Antenna grid damage || Map dead zones || Professional repair or replacement
| Price (1979) || US$650
|}
|}


== Maintenance ==
== Issues ==


=== Preventive Care ===
=== RF Interference ===
The first revision caused significant radio frequency interference with television sets. Many Apple II owners used televisions as displays, making this a serious usability problem. The FCC required Apple to pull the product until it met emissions standards.


'''Regular cleaning:'''
=== Reliability ===
* Wipe tablet surface weekly with microfiber cloth
The internal wire matrix relies on adhesive to maintain wire positioning. Over decades, this adhesive degrades:
* Clean stylus tip monthly
* Wires detach from their positions
* Check cable integrity quarterly
* Coordinates become inaccurate or non-functional
* Protect from direct sunlight
* Repair is extremely difficult due to the number of wires involved


'''Storage:'''
=== Market Timing ===
* Store stylus in holder or horizontally
By the time the FCC-approved revision was available:
* Keep tablet flat or vertical
* The Apple IIe had launched with a more refined ecosystem
* Protect surface from scratches
* The Macintosh (1984) introduced the mouse as standard
* Maintain 40-60% humidity
* Consumer interest in stylus-based input had waned


'''Cable management:'''
== Maintenance ==
* Avoid tight coiling
* Prevent kinking at connection points
* Use cable ties for organization
* Regular inspection for damage
 
=== Calibration ===
 
'''Apple Graphics Tablet:'''
# Run calibration utility from system disk
# Touch stylus to indicated corners
# Verify tracking across entire surface
# Save calibration to disk
 
'''ADB tablets:'''
# Open tablet control panel
# Select calibration option
# Follow on-screen prompts
# 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:'''
=== Overlay Care ===
* Precision input for technical drawing
* Clean with mild soap and water
* Template overlay capabilities
* Avoid solvents that may cause yellowing
* Reduced repetitive strain injuries
* Store away from direct sunlight
* Do not press heavily—overlays become brittle with age


'''Medical imaging:'''
=== Internal Repair ===
* Radiology annotations
Repair of the wire matrix is generally impractical:
* Surgical planning
* Hundreds of fine wires require precise positioning
* Medical illustration
* Original adhesive cannot be easily replaced
* Disassembly often causes additional damage


== Collecting and Values ==
Most surviving units with internal wire displacement are considered non-functional.


=== Apple Graphics Tablet ===
== Collecting ==


'''Rarity:''' Very rare, especially first version
=== Rarity ===
'''Condition factors:'''
The Graphics Tablet is uncommon due to:
* Complete with stylus and manual
* Limited original sales (high price point)
* Working interface card
* First revision recall
* Original software
* Fragile internal construction
* FCC-compliant second version more common
* Age-related failures


'''Typical values (2024):'''
=== Condition Assessment ===
* Complete working system: $800-1500
* '''Mint:''' Original box, clear overlay, functional (extremely rare)
* Tablet only: $200-400
* '''Excellent:''' Clear overlay, no visible damage, may be functional
* Interface card: $100-200
* '''Good:''' Some overlay yellowing, unknown functionality
* Original software: $50-100
* '''Fair:''' Yellowed/cracked overlay, likely non-functional
* '''Poor:''' Damaged frame, missing parts, non-functional


=== ADB Graphics Tablets ===
=== Components ===
A complete system includes:
* Graphics Tablet unit (A2M0029)
* Interface card (670-0012)
* Stylus
* Software disks
* Manual


'''Collectibility factors:'''
The interface card is essential and often missing from surviving units.
* Wacom tablets most desirable
* Complete systems with software valuable
* Professional large-format tablets sought after
* Working styluses increasingly rare


'''Market values:'''
=== Market Value ===
* Wacom ArtPad II: $50-150
Working examples with interface cards command premium prices. Non-functional units still have collector value for display purposes. Auction houses including RR Auction have sold Graphics Tablets as vintage computing collectibles.
* Wacom ArtZ II: $75-200
* Kurta IS/ADB: $100-300
* CalComp DrawingSlate: $30-80


== See Also ==
== See Also ==
* [[Apple Desktop Bus]]
* [[Apple II]]
* [[Apple Mouse]]
* [[Apple Mouse]]


== References ==
* AppleToTheCore.me — Apple Graphics Tablet documentation
* RR Auction lot descriptions
* Computing History museum records
[[Category:Apple Vintage Accessories]]


{{Navbox-AppleVintageAccessories}}
{{Navbox-AppleVintageAccessories}}
[[Category:Apple Desktop Bus]]
[[Category:Apple Vintage Accessories]]

Latest revision as of 16:16, 9 February 2026

Apple Graphics Tablet
Apple Graphics Tablet (Model A2M0029)
Manufacturer Apple Computer, Inc.
Type Graphics tablet
Discontinued 1984
Price US$650
Interface Peripheral card (670-0012)
Compatible Apple II, Apple II Plus, Apple IIe, Apple IIGS
Dimensions ~380 mm × 380 mm × 25 mm (15" × 15")
Weight ~1.5 kg
Predecessor None
Successor None
Model A2M0029

The Apple Graphics Tablet (model A2M0029) was Apple's digitizing tablet for the Apple II family, released in 1979. Priced at US$650 (approximately $1,980 adjusted for inflation), it allowed users to draw images at 280 × 192 resolution—years before the mouse became a standard input device.

Background

[edit | edit source]

The Graphics Tablet was released during a period when graphical input devices were rare and expensive. At $650, it represented a significant investment for Apple II owners. The tablet predated the mouse by several years, making it one of the earliest consumer-accessible graphical input devices.

Design

[edit | edit source]

Physical Construction

[edit | edit source]

The Graphics Tablet measures approximately 15 inches × 15 inches (380 mm × 380 mm), significantly larger than modern tablets:

  • Plastic frame housing
  • Transparent overlay sheet
  • Wire matrix sensing surface
  • Tethered stylus

The overlay protected the sensing matrix and provided a smooth drawing surface. Over time, these overlays yellowed or cracked, particularly in early units.

Sensing Technology

[edit | edit source]

The tablet uses capacitive sensing through a wire matrix:

  • X and Y coordinate wires arranged in a grid pattern
  • Changes in capacitance indicate stylus position
  • Wires held in position with adhesive
  • Age causes adhesive failure and wire displacement

Connection

[edit | edit source]

The Graphics Tablet requires a dedicated interface card (part number 670-0012) installed in an Apple II expansion slot. The first revision connected via a wire with a header that plugged directly into the card. The second revision used dual DB-9 connectors.

Revisions

[edit | edit source]

First Revision (1979)

[edit | edit source]
  • Wire with header connector (no DB-9)
  • No FCC approval
  • Caused RF interference with television sets
  • Pulled from market after FCC intervention

Second Revision (1980+)

[edit | edit source]
  • Dual DB-9 connectors
  • FCC approved
  • Improved RF shielding
  • Limited market success due to timing (Macintosh and mouse approaching)

Software

[edit | edit source]

The tablet shipped with Apple Graphics Tablet Software (1979):

  • Drawing application
  • 280 × 192 resolution support
  • Required interface card present to load

Additional third-party software supported the tablet for various drawing and design applications.

Specifications

[edit | edit source]
Parameter Value
Model number A2M0029
Interface card 670-0012
Active area ~12" × 12" (estimated)
Resolution 280 × 192 pixels
Dimensions ~380 mm × 380 mm × 25 mm
Connection Wire header (rev 1) / DB-9 (rev 2)
Case material Plastic frame, transparent overlay
Compatible systems Apple II, II Plus, IIe, IIGS
Price (1979) US$650

Issues

[edit | edit source]

RF Interference

[edit | edit source]

The first revision caused significant radio frequency interference with television sets. Many Apple II owners used televisions as displays, making this a serious usability problem. The FCC required Apple to pull the product until it met emissions standards.

Reliability

[edit | edit source]

The internal wire matrix relies on adhesive to maintain wire positioning. Over decades, this adhesive degrades:

  • Wires detach from their positions
  • Coordinates become inaccurate or non-functional
  • Repair is extremely difficult due to the number of wires involved

Market Timing

[edit | edit source]

By the time the FCC-approved revision was available:

  • The Apple IIe had launched with a more refined ecosystem
  • The Macintosh (1984) introduced the mouse as standard
  • Consumer interest in stylus-based input had waned

Maintenance

[edit | edit source]

Overlay Care

[edit | edit source]
  • Clean with mild soap and water
  • Avoid solvents that may cause yellowing
  • Store away from direct sunlight
  • Do not press heavily—overlays become brittle with age

Internal Repair

[edit | edit source]

Repair of the wire matrix is generally impractical:

  • Hundreds of fine wires require precise positioning
  • Original adhesive cannot be easily replaced
  • Disassembly often causes additional damage

Most surviving units with internal wire displacement are considered non-functional.

Collecting

[edit | edit source]

Rarity

[edit | edit source]

The Graphics Tablet is uncommon due to:

  • Limited original sales (high price point)
  • First revision recall
  • Fragile internal construction
  • Age-related failures

Condition Assessment

[edit | edit source]
  • Mint: Original box, clear overlay, functional (extremely rare)
  • Excellent: Clear overlay, no visible damage, may be functional
  • Good: Some overlay yellowing, unknown functionality
  • Fair: Yellowed/cracked overlay, likely non-functional
  • Poor: Damaged frame, missing parts, non-functional

Components

[edit | edit source]

A complete system includes:

  • Graphics Tablet unit (A2M0029)
  • Interface card (670-0012)
  • Stylus
  • Software disks
  • Manual

The interface card is essential and often missing from surviving units.

Market Value

[edit | edit source]

Working examples with interface cards command premium prices. Non-functional units still have collector value for display purposes. Auction houses including RR Auction have sold Graphics Tablets as vintage computing collectibles.

See Also

[edit | edit source]

References

[edit | edit source]
  • AppleToTheCore.me — Apple Graphics Tablet documentation
  • RR Auction lot descriptions
  • Computing History museum records


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