1. Introduction
The Wacom Graphire4 4x5 USB Tablet is a versatile input device designed for creative and business applications. It features a pressure-sensitive wireless pen and tablet, enabling precise control for digital art, photo editing, document annotation, and more. This manual provides instructions for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your Graphire4 tablet.
2. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in your Graphire4 4x5 USB Tablet package:
- Graphire4 4x5 Pen Tablet
- Digital Pen
- Pen Stand
- Cordless, Battery-Free Mouse
- 2 CD-ROMs (Wacom tablet driver software, user manual, bundled software)
- User Manual (Printed)
- Bundled Software: Adobe Photoshop Elements 3, Corel Painter Essentials 2, nik Color Efex Pro 2 GE
3. Product Overview
The Wacom Graphire4 tablet provides an intuitive interface for digital input. Below is an image of the tablet with its primary components.
Image: The Wacom Graphire4 4x5 USB Tablet in blue, shown with its accompanying digital pen and cordless mouse. The tablet features a transparent photo frame area and the Wacom logo.
Key Features:
- Pressure-sensitive pen and tablet for creative and business applications.
- Battery-free digital pen with 512 levels of pressure sensitivity, two programmable side-buttons, and a pressure-sensitive eraser.
- USB connectivity for easy installation on both PCs and Macs.
- Integrated scroll wheel and two programmable ExpressKeys on the tablet.
- Transparent photo frame for personalization or tracing.
4. Setup and Installation
4.1. Connecting the Tablet
- Unpack the Wacom Graphire4 tablet and its components.
- Connect the USB cable from the tablet to an available USB port on your computer (PC or Mac).
- The computer should detect the new hardware.
4.2. Installing Driver Software
For full functionality and customization, install the Wacom tablet driver software from the included CD-ROMs.
- Insert the Wacom driver CD-ROM into your computer's optical drive.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to install the driver software. Restart your computer if prompted.
- After installation, you can access the Wacom Tablet Properties panel from your system settings to customize pen and tablet functions.
5. Operating the Graphire4 Tablet
5.1. Using the Digital Pen
The digital pen is your primary input tool. It is cordless and battery-free.
- Pressure Sensitivity: The pen offers 512 levels of pressure sensitivity. Pressing harder on the tablet will result in a stronger effect in compatible software (e.g., thicker lines, more opaque colors).
- Side Buttons: The pen features two programmable side buttons. These can be customized in the Wacom Tablet Properties to perform various functions, such as right-click, double-click, or modifier keys.
- Eraser: The opposite end of the pen functions as a pressure-sensitive eraser in many applications.
- Absolute Positioning: Every point on the tablet corresponds to a specific point on your screen. Moving the pen over the tablet moves the cursor precisely on the screen.
5.2. Tablet Features
- ExpressKeys: The tablet includes two programmable ExpressKeys. These can be assigned to frequently used functions, keyboard shortcuts, or mouse clicks.
- Scroll Wheel: A scroll wheel on the tablet allows for easy navigation and zooming in applications.
- Transparent Photo Frame: The clear cover over the active area allows you to place photos or artwork underneath for tracing or personalization.
5.3. Using the Cordless Mouse
The included cordless, battery-free mouse provides an alternative input method. It offers smooth and accurate tracking and features a rubberized grip for comfort. The scrolling finger wheel also functions as a third programmable button.
5.4. Software Integration
The Graphire4 tablet enhances functionality with various software applications:
- Creative Software: Fully utilize pressure sensitivity in applications like Adobe Photoshop Elements 3 and Corel Painter Essentials 2 (included).
- Document Annotation: Mark up Microsoft Word and Adobe PDF documents with handwritten comments and digital signatures.
- Note-Taking: Integrate with Microsoft Office OneNote for handwritten notes and diagrams.
- Presentations: Use the pen tool in PowerPoint to add handwritten marks directly onto slides during presentations.
- Handwriting Recognition: With the English language version of Microsoft XP, handwriting can be converted to text in various applications.
6. Maintenance
6.1. General Care
- Keep the tablet and pen clean by wiping them with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Protect the tablet surface from scratches and excessive force.
- Store the pen in its stand or the tablet's pen compartment when not in use.
6.2. Pen Grip Maintenance
Over time, the rubber grip on the digital pen may loosen or expand, potentially affecting the functionality of the side buttons. If this occurs, ensure the grip is properly seated. Avoid repeatedly removing and reinserting the pen into tight holders, which can exacerbate this issue.
7. Troubleshooting
7.1. Driver Issues
- If the tablet is not responding, ensure the Wacom driver software is correctly installed and up to date.
- Try reinstalling the driver if you experience erratic behavior.
- Check the Wacom support website for the latest drivers compatible with your operating system.
7.2. Operating System Compatibility
The Graphire4 tablet was released in 2005. While it functions well with older operating systems, compatibility with newer versions of Windows (e.g., Windows 10) or macOS may be limited or require specific legacy drivers. Consult Wacom's support resources for information on compatibility with modern operating systems.
7.3. Pen Malfunctions
- If the pen is not registering input or its buttons are not working, check for physical damage.
- Ensure the pen tip is not worn down. Replacement nibs may be available from Wacom.
- Verify that the pen grip is not interfering with the side buttons (refer to Section 6.2).
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 8.03 x 8.2 x 0.7 inches |
| Item Weight | 1.1 pounds |
| Model Number | CTE440B |
| Connectivity Technology | USB |
| Screen Size (Active Area) | 4 x 5 Inches |
| Pressure Levels | 512 |
| Manufacturer | WACOM |
9. Warranty and Support
9.1. Warranty Information
Wacom products typically come with a limited warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Wacom website for specific warranty terms and conditions applicable to the Graphire4 tablet. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
9.2. Customer Support
For further assistance, technical support, or driver downloads, please visit the official Wacom support website. You can often find FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and contact information for customer service there.
