1. Introduction
This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your XP-PEN Artist 16 (2nd Gen) Pen Display. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the device to ensure optimal performance and longevity.

Image 1.1: XP-PEN Artist 16 (2nd Gen) Pen Display with X3 Stylus.
This image displays the XP-PEN Artist 16 (2nd Gen) Pen Display, a black tablet with a screen showing colorful digital art. To the right of the tablet is the black X3 Stylus pen. The tablet features a row of customizable shortcut keys on its left side.
2. Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in your package:

Image 2.1: Included accessories with the XP-PEN Artist 16 (2nd Gen).
This image shows the XP-PEN Artist 16 (2nd Gen) Pen Display alongside its packaging and various accessories. These include the X3 Stylus, a 3-in-1 USB-C cable, a USB extension cable, a power adapter with multiple plug types, a drawing glove, a cleaning cloth, and replacement pen nibs.
- XP-PEN Artist 16 (2nd Gen) Pen Display
- X3 Stylus
- 3-in-1 USB-C Cable
- USB Extension Cable
- Power Adapter with various plug types
- Drawing Glove
- Cleaning Cloth
- Replacement Pen Nibs
- Quick Guide (refer to this manual for detailed instructions)
3. Setup Instructions
3.1 Driver Installation
- Visit the official XP-PEN website to download the latest driver for your Artist 16 (2nd Gen) model.
- Close all drawing software and antivirus programs before installation.
- Run the downloaded installer and follow the on-screen prompts.
- Restart your computer after the installation is complete.
3.2 Connecting the Pen Display
The Artist 16 (2nd Gen) offers two primary connection methods:

Image 3.1: Connection ports and cable types for the Artist 16 (2nd Gen).
This image illustrates the two USB-C ports on the XP-PEN Artist 16 (2nd Gen) and their corresponding cable connections. One port is for the included 3-in-1 USB-C cable, which connects to HDMI and USB-A ports on a computer. The other port is a full-featured USB-C port, allowing a single-cable connection to compatible devices (cable sold separately).
- 3-in-1 USB-C Cable Connection (Included):
- Connect the 3-in-1 cable to the designated port on the pen display.
- Connect the HDMI end to your computer's HDMI port.
- Connect the USB-A end to your computer's USB port for data transfer.
- Connect the red USB-A end to a power source (computer USB port or power adapter) for power.
- Full-featured USB-C Cable Connection (Sold Separately):
- If your computer or Android device supports a full-featured USB-C output (DisplayPort Alternate Mode), you can use a single full-featured USB-C cable.
- Connect one end of the full-featured USB-C cable to the designated port on the pen display.
- Connect the other end to your computer's or Android device's full-featured USB-C port.
- Important: Ensure your device's USB-C port supports video output and sufficient power delivery. Incorrect port usage may result in no display.
3.3 Initial Configuration
- After connecting, the display should automatically extend or mirror your computer screen. Adjust display settings in your operating system if needed.
- Open the XP-PEN driver software to calibrate the pen and customize settings such as pressure sensitivity and express keys.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Using the X3 Stylus
The Artist 16 (2nd Gen) comes with the X3 Stylus, featuring advanced chip technology for precise and responsive drawing.

Image 4.1: The X3 Stylus for the Artist 16 (2nd Gen).
This image highlights the X3 Stylus, a sleek black pen with a textured grip and two customizable buttons. The stylus is battery-free and designed for precise input on the pen display.
- The stylus is battery-free and requires no charging.
- It offers 8192 levels of pressure sensitivity, allowing for varied line thickness and opacity based on pressure applied.
- Two customizable buttons on the stylus can be configured in the driver software for functions like right-click, eraser, or other shortcuts.
4.2 Customizable Shortcut Keys
The pen display features ten customizable shortcut keys on its left side.

Image 4.2: Customizable shortcut keys on the Artist 16 (2nd Gen).
This image focuses on the ten customizable shortcut keys located on the left bezel of the XP-PEN Artist 16 (2nd Gen) Pen Display. Each key is a distinct button, allowing users to program frequently used functions for an optimized workflow.
- These keys can be assigned various functions (e.g., undo, zoom, brush size) through the XP-PEN driver software.
- Customize them to match your preferred workflow in different applications.
4.3 Screen Features
- The 15.4-inch Full HD (1920x1080p) display provides a clear and detailed visual experience.
- An anti-glare matte finish helps reduce reflections and eye strain during extended use.
- The display offers a wide color gamut (127% sRGB) for accurate color reproduction.
4.4 Tablet/Screen Switch Function
To switch between display mode and tablet-only mode (screen off, using the device as a pen tablet):
- Long press the power button for three seconds.
- The indicator light will flash blue and orange alternately, indicating the mode change.
- In tablet-only mode, the screen will be off, and you can use the stylus on the tablet surface as an input device for your computer.
4.5 Compatibility and Applications
The Artist 16 (2nd Gen) is compatible with a wide range of operating systems and software:
- Operating Systems: Windows 7 (or later), Mac OS X 10.10 (or later), Android (USB3.1 DP1.2), Chrome OS 88 (or later), and Linux.
- Applications: Designed for digital drawing, painting, sketching, E-signatures, online teaching, remote work, and photo editing. Compatible with Microsoft Office apps (Word, PowerPoint, OneNote), Zoom, Xsplit, and various creative software like Photoshop, Illustrator, Clip Studio Paint, GIMP, Krita, etc.
5. Maintenance
5.1 Cleaning the Display
- Always power off the device and disconnect it from the power source before cleaning.
- Use the provided cleaning cloth or a soft, lint-free cloth.
- For stubborn smudges, lightly dampen the cloth with water or a screen-safe cleaning solution. Do not spray liquid directly onto the screen.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or alcohol-based solutions, as these can damage the screen surface.
5.2 Stylus Care
- Store the stylus in a safe place to prevent damage.
- Replace pen nibs when they show significant wear to maintain optimal drawing performance. Gently pull out the old nib and insert a new one.
5.3 General Care
- Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight, or high humidity.
- Do not place heavy objects on the tablet.
- Handle the device with care to prevent drops or impacts.
6. Troubleshooting
6.1 No Display / Connection Issues
- Check Cables: Ensure all cables (HDMI, USB, power) are securely connected to both the pen display and your computer.
- Correct USB-C Port: If using a full-featured USB-C cable, verify that your computer's USB-C port supports DisplayPort Alternate Mode and sufficient power delivery. Some USB-C ports are for data only.
- Driver Status: Confirm that the XP-PEN driver is correctly installed and running. Reinstall the driver if necessary.
- Display Settings: Check your computer's display settings to ensure the Artist 16 (2nd Gen) is detected and configured for extended or mirrored display.
6.2 Pen Not Responding / Incorrect Pressure
- Driver Check: Ensure the XP-PEN driver is installed and functioning correctly.
- Nibs: Check if the pen nib is worn out or loose. Replace it if needed.
- Interference: Keep the pen display away from strong electromagnetic fields.
- Calibration: Perform pen calibration through the XP-PEN driver software to improve accuracy and minimize parallax.
6.3 Shortcut Keys Not Working
- Driver Software: Open the XP-PEN driver software and verify that the shortcut keys are correctly configured for the application you are using.
- Application Focus: Ensure the target application is in focus when using the shortcut keys.
6.4 Device Gets Warm
- It is normal for the device to become slightly warm during prolonged use, especially on the right side. This does not typically indicate a malfunction.
- Ensure adequate ventilation around the device.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | CD160FH_BK |
| Product Dimensions | 17.09 x 10.04 x 0.04 inches |
| Item Weight | 5.08 pounds |
| Visible Screen Diagonal | 15.4 inches / 40 cm |
| Display Resolution | 1920x1080p Full HD |
| Color Gamut | 127% sRGB |
| Pressure Sensitivity | 8192 Levels |
| Stylus | Battery-Free X3 Stylus |
| Connectivity Technology | HDMI, USB (3-in-1 USB-C, Full-featured USB-C) |
| Operating System Compatibility | Windows 7+, Mac OS X 10.10+, Android (USB3.1 DP1.2), Chrome OS 88+, Linux |
| Special Feature | Pen input, Anti-glare screen, Customizable shortcut keys |

Image 7.1: Physical dimensions of the Artist 16 (2nd Gen) Pen Display.
This image provides a technical drawing of the XP-PEN Artist 16 (2nd Gen) Pen Display, detailing its physical dimensions. The screen area measures 340.99 x 191.81 mm, the overall width is 434 mm, height is 225.8 mm, and thickness is 12.89 mm. It also indicates the locations of the full-featured USB-C port and the 3-in-1 USB-C port.
8. Warranty and Support
8.1 Warranty Information
Your XP-PEN Artist 16 (2nd Gen) Pen Display comes with a 1-year replacement warranty from the date of purchase. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
8.2 Customer Support
For technical assistance, warranty claims, or any product-related inquiries, please contact XP-PEN customer support:

Image 8.1: XP-PEN customer support contact details.
This image provides contact information for XP-PEN customer support, including options to raise a ticket via their website, call a dedicated phone number (1800 102 1518, available Mon-Sat 10 AM to 6 PM), or email service@xp-pen.co.in. It also states that the support team aims to respond within 24 working hours.
- Online Support: Visit www.xp-pen.co.in/support to raise a support ticket.
- Phone Support: Call 1800 102 1518 (Monday - Saturday, 10 AM to 6 PM).
- Email Support: Send an email to service@xp-pen.co.in.
The XP-PEN support team aims to respond to inquiries within 24 working hours.





