Apple Graphics Tablet

Background

The Apple Graphics Tablet was introduced in 1979 to enable users to create graphics and pictures on the Apple II series using a wired pen. The software allowed the drawing of accurate line segments through specifying their endpoints. The images could be rotated, translated, and magnified. The software was also able to perform calculations, for example you could convert screen units into square feet through a scaling feature. In spring 1983, the original version was replaced with an updated model to address issues with electromagnetic interference. The non-RFI and RFI models were functionally identical aside from the modifications to address the interference. The Graphics Tablet connects to the Graphics Tablet Interface Card, which plugs into one of the peripheral connector slots in the Apple II. In the non-RFI model, they were directly connected whereas in the RFI release, they were connected through an internal cable.