Question for the Computer Graphics Gurus

[Jim MacDonald]

When you guys are working on graphics for warbird profiles or logos, what do you use while your making the drawings, a mouse or a graphics tablet (I think that's the right term)?

Thanks,

Mac

[muddyboots]

i haven't touched a mouse for graphics in years. It's far FAR better imho.

[Jim MacDonald]

Thanks, Muddy. I appreciate the response.

Mac

[Django]

Jim, I use a mouse. I tried a "pen" about 13 years ago, but I just wasn't able to get it to do what I wanted to. I'm sure it's much better these days. But I don't like new tricks...

[Cvairwerks]

Jim : I've used both, but it really depends on what you are doing as to what is best. I've got a bit over 8,000 hours on AutoCad, and have always used a puck and tablet with it. The reason was all the automated routines and control functions that are constantly accessed. Most of the drawing that I was doing utilized up to 300 customized blocks that were inserted and manipulated. Some of the drawings ran well past 2000 blocks. Trying to set things up so that a pen could be used would have required some custom software and the use of numerous auxillary menus to do the same work. That cost would have been fairly high for us, even utilizing our inhouse programmers, and then it would not be completely compatable with the client's software. As it was, when we finished the job, we were able to download the entire project along with all the data files and the other stuff to the customer in just a matter of minuets and have them up and running.


Now when you change over to freeform design or photo work, a pen seems to be better, You are not necessarily working to the same type of standards or production requirements. With this style of drawing, you tend to generate most stuff as you need it rather than doing repetitive insertions.

I think that what it comes down to, is a combination of personal preference coupled with your particular drawing needs and software.