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C H A P T E R N I N E
9.
The graphics tablet
This chapter contains: Connecting the graphics tablet; using the tablet;
selecting fixtures on the tablet; changing the position of the fixtures;
changing colours and other attributes; storing palette entries; other
functions.
The graphics tablet is an accessory to the DLC-C003. On “Touring”
models it is fitted in the flightcase to the right of the console. It allows
you to use a pen (or a puck) to select fixtures, groups, colours, and
position the fixtures by simply drawing with the pen. When you use the
DLC-C003’s Tracking mode you can instantly make all your fixtures
point at one place on the stage just by pressing on the tablet.
The tablet makes programming and operating a show on the DLC-C003
much more intuitive. If you don’t have a graphics tablet you’re missing
out!
9.1
Create
9.1.1
Connecting the tablet
The tablet is connected to the Serial port on the DLC-C003. It is
powered through the serial port. You must turn off the DLC-C003 when
connecting the tablet. The pen or puck should also be plugged into its
socket on the rear of the tablet. Some tablets have an on/off switch on
the rear.
The power LED on the tablet should be lit, and when you touch the pen
to the tablet surface, the status LED should light up.
User Setting 7 (Press YPL and Softkey C) must be set to “G-Tablet” to
enable the tablet. If the tablet does not respond, change the setting of
User Setting 7 a few times until it comes back to “G-Tablet”.
9.1.2
Using the tablet
To use the tablet, press the pen onto it (the button on the side of the
pen doesn’t do anything). A quick press is like pushing a button on the
DLC-C003. You can also draw on the tablet by keeping the pen pressed
down while moving it. This is used to move fixtures or change
attributes.
The tablet has a paper overlay on it, with printed pads which simulate
buttons or other controls. You can write your fixture names, group
names, attributes, palette entries and even draw your stage layout on
the overlay so that you know what’s what. Spare overlays are available
from DORTRON’s.
The DLC-C003 will behave as if you are pressing buttons on it in the
normal way, so the LEDs and the display will change as you use the
tablet. Many of the functions of the DLC-C003 are quicker and easier
using the tablet. Sometimes you might find it easier to do part of the
function on the tablet and part on the console. The end result is the
same.
9.1.3
Selecting fixtures on the tablet
To select a fixture, press the pen onto one of the “Fixtures” pads
