CompuServe Thread

Summa II+

3 messages in this thread
#29821From: Jeffrey HeftDec 16, 1992 1:55 PM
JKJ: I tend to go back and forth between AA Pro and 3DS frequently during the work day, as well as to adjust maps and backgrounds while inside 3DS. While I could add a serial port or a switch box – with the working area remapped and the addition control in the Shaper (freehand) I find the stylus equally usable and at times preferable to a mouse (especially once the aforementioned problem is solved). I'm curious what it is about the Hitachi that recommends it over the II+? I would also like macro capabilities in 3DS. Both as keyboard definable as well as recordable ala AA Pro. Your offer to reconfigure and attempt to duplicate the problem is much appreciated. I will let you know if the protected mode drvr the Yost Grp is locating for me resolves the problem. JDH
#29941From: John K. JordanDec 17, 1992 4:11 PM
Jeff, I just hooked up the SUMMA II+ to 3DSr2.01 and tried it out with the ROTATE in the keyframer… I see what you mean! It sort of makes the tablet usless (or at least a patience builder) doesn't it? What computer hardware are you using? I will detail my observations to the Yost wizards to add to their pile. The Hitachi seems to have better digitizing resolution with more stability than the SUMMA. That translates into it being easier to use for precision work (in AutoCAD). I don't even know if there is a driver available for 3DS or AniPro. Another disadvantage of the SUMMA is in the switches they chose to use in the puck. They are harder to press (although they have a good 'click'), which for me sometimes results in a tiny bit of unintended movement unless I hold the cursor very firmly to the tablet. For precision AutoCAD work, I generally hit the keyboard for precise cursor movement. (None of this applies, of course, to the stylus.) In addition, if you appreciate quality craftsmanship, the Hitachi is easer to appreciate! JKJ (who appreciates quality-everything)
#29955From: Jeffrey HeftDec 17, 1992 5:34 PM
John: I really appreciate you taking the time to reconfig for the Summa II+/stylus set-up. I hope the added weight of your comments to the Yost Group will encourage the redesign of their 3DS built in Summa drvr. Gary sent me the protected mode drvr for the Summa, but that did the same thing. Nothing special about my hardware set-up: 486/33 64 megs with Weitek, Targa+64, Everex VGAHC, Nec CDR-84, BCD-5000, JVC SVHS decks. Thats the basic stuff (probably more than you wanted to know <g>). Definitely into craftsmanship! Besides my fine arts background (BFA/MFA), one of the many hats I wear is as an electronics packaging designer. Button and switch selection is just as important to me as puzzle packing of electronic components or how to design the most cost effective sheet metal chassis design (its that form/function thang!). JDH