Computer mice are arguably the best thing since sliced bread - for computer users anyway - until you try to draw with one. The results are seldom smooth and control can be difficult with results that never really seem to satisfy unless, of course, you are an expert in the use of vector graphic packages such as CorelDRAW or Adobe Illustrator. Even here, professionals love using graphics tablets as they give more flexibility in drawing and working menus.

Until now these tablets have been expensive and rather large, whereas the Acecat Flair is compact and seems to do just about everything the larger tablets or pads do. If you should feel more comfortable with a larger working area, larger versions are available. However, the Acecat allows you to set the relative working area size to suit your working style.

Installation is easy and while there is little in the way of information on how to use it, this doesnt matter as it is fairly straightforward to use. It has a USB connection and can be used in conjunction with your existing mouse.
The Acecat can be used wherever you use pen or brush tools and is responsive to pressure in drawing mode. Light pressure means a thin line whereas heavier pressure corresponds to thicker lines, just the way a brush or pen responds to pressure in copperplate writing, for example, giving a great flexibility in styles and techniques.

Used with a program such as Corel PHOTO-PAINT, it gives a fineness to any piece of work and provides good control of effects and artwork. And with its built-in capability to select and change tools, it makes working a breeze. Similarly, used together with CorelDRAW or Adobe Illustrator, drawing control and tool manipulation is excellent.

For non-professionals, it allows smooth curves just like the ones you would produce using a pen, pencil or brush, providing the software allows freehand drawing or works in the bitmap format. You simply wield it as you would a pen or pencil on paper. It also allows you to trace artwork straight from a book or page into your program, and can handle originals up to 5mm or 6mm thick.
Unlike some earlier pads that sensed the pressure on the pad itself, this one seems to respond to the pressure on the stylus tip, making its use more flexible and responsive than the older types.

Providing the stylus tip is close enough, the tablet senses the position of the tip, making it easy to select tools and menu items by simply clicking or pressing at the appropriate point, indicated on the computer screen beneath the cursor, just as you would with a mouse.

As a bonus it comes with MetaCreations Art Dabbler 2.1 package, which allows you to create animations and more in the bitmap format. I have reviewed and played with Dabbler in the past and its a great program.

For anyone whos into artwork, this tablet is an inexpensive gem, allowing you full scope to your creativity whether using drawing, art or CAD applications in bitmap or vector modes.

George Kimpton