GTCO AccuTab II User Manual

Standard Operating Information
Parts Checklist
What You Need to Use AccuTab II
Care and Handling

Cleaning AccuTab II
Maintaining the Transducers
Replacing the Pen Tip
Replacing the Pen Batteries
Replacing the Cursor Batteries

Installing AccuTab II

Mounting a Large AccuTab II Tablet
Connecting to Your Computer
Connecting to the Power Supply
Applying Power to AccuTab II
Configuring Your Computer
Configuring and Using the Transducer

Using the AccuSet Menu

Configuring for Specific Application Programs
Using the Custom Configuration Menu
Communication Options
Output Format Options
Mode Options
Controlling the Alarm
Controlling the Alarm Using Remote Commands
Resetting AccuTab II
Testing the Active Area

AccuTab II Tones
Troubleshooting Guide

Procedure A: Begin Troubleshooting
Procedure B: Troubleshooting

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Table of Contents

AccuTab II 1

AccuTab II 2

Procedure C: Troubleshooting
Using GTCOTEST
Reducing Monitor Interference
Tablet Checklist
Computer Checklist
Software Checklist

AccuTab II Specifications

Sources of Power

Advanced Operating Information

AccuTab II Interfacing
Character Format and Baud Rate
Cabling
Flow Control

Remote Commands

GTCO AccuTab II Commands
Functional Control Commands
Alarm Commands
Format Selection Commands
Diagnostic Commands
CalComp Emulation Commands
Summagraphics Emulation Commands
Command Mode Basics
A Hint for Programmers

Advanced Programming Information

Coordinate Formats
Binary Formats
GTCO/CalComp Binary Format
Summagraphics Binary Format
Cursor Button Codes in Binary Formats
ASCII Formats
Cursor Button Codes in ASCII Formats
Measurement Scales
Digitizing Modes
Point Mode
Line Mode
Continuous Mode
Line Incremental Mode
Continuous Incremental Mode

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AccuTab II 3

Remote Request Mode
Controlling the Alarm Using Remote Commands
Programming Examples

General Product Information

Radio and Television Interference
Bescheinigung des Herstellers/Importeurs
Limited Warranty for AccuTab II

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AccuTab II 4

To replace the pen tip, grasp the tip and pull
straight out (see figure). Insert the new tip
and press until it clicks into place.

Parts Checklist

 AccuTab II Series digitizing tablet with attached Controller
 Power supply
 Transducer (cursor or stylus)
 Computer interface cable with 9-pin connector
 TabletWorks CD

NOTE: AccuTab II Controller is the small enclosure attached to the back of the tablet that
contains the electronics that drive the digitizer.

What You Will Need to Use AccuTab II

 Computer with an RS-232C communication port
 Graphic application software that accepts digitizer input

Care and Handling

Cleaning AccuTab II

 To clean the tablet, GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies recommends using any

non-abrasive cleaner that is appropriate for cleaning kitchen counter tops.

 To clean the cursor body, use a mild cleanser. Do not spray the cleanser directly on

the cursor, instead dampen a soft cloth with a mixture of water and the cleanser.

 Clean cursor reticles with alcohol.

NOTE: Excessive cleaning can dissolve the filled black cross hair on a reticle.

Maintaining the Transducers

Replacing the Pen Tip

AccuTab II 5

To replace the batteries:

1. Unscrew the pen cap. Hold the

pen from the bottom and gently
slide off the pen cover to expose
the batteries.

2. Remove the old batteries by

turning the pen over and gently
tapping it, letting the batteries
fall into your other hand.

3. Insert the new batteries as they

are shown in the figure (+
towards pen tip).

4. Replace the pen cover and screw

the pen cap onto the pen.

Replacing the Pen Batteries

The pens require two 393 silver oxide batteries. The average battery life is 750 to 1,000
hours.

NOTE: When you replace the pen batteries, the pen will reset to the default frequency. If
you changed the frequency of the pen before replacing the batteries, you will need to do so
again after replacing the batteries (See Reducing Monitor Interference for additional
information).

Replacing the Cursor Batteries

The cursor requires two AAA batteries. The average battery life for the cursor batteries is
4,000 hours.

AccuTab II 6

To replace the batteries:

1. Place the cursor face down in the

palm of your hand. Use a Phillips
screwdriver to remove the two
screws located on the bottom of
the cursor (see figure). Remove
the cursor base.

2. Remove the old batteries from the

battery casings.

3. Place the new batteries in the

casings, matching the polarity of
each battery with the markings on
the connector strips (match + to
+).

4. Reposition the cursor base.

Replace the screws with the
Phillips screwdriver.

NOTE: When you replace the cursor batteries, the cursor will reset to the default
frequency. If you changed the frequency of the cursor before replacing the batteries, you
will need to do so again after replacing the batteries (see Reducing Monitor Interface).

Installing AccuTab II

The following instructions provide information on how to put the AccuTab II system
together and attaching it to the computer.

Mounting a Large AccuTab II Tablet

The AccuTab II can be placed on a table, desk or drafting table. Alternatively, you can
mount a tablet on a workstation stand available from a variety of manufacturers.
Instructions will be packed with the stand. GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies also
provides Universal Mounting Brackets, as an option, that allow the digitizer to be mounted

AccuTab II 7

Connect the round end of the serial
cable to the jack labeled I/O on the
Controller. The arrow on the
connector should face up.

Attach the 9-pin or 9-pin to 25-pin
connector to the serial port on back
of computer.

Connecting the Power Supply

Attach the power supply’s cable to

the jack on the back of the serial

cable’s connector. Plug the power

supply into a power outlet or power
strip.

to virtually any pedestal. Contact GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies at

1.866.746.3015 or email us at [e-mail] for price and availability.

NOTE: Do not drill holes in any GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies tablet.

Connecting to Your Computer

GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies provides an RS-232C/power supply cable with
each AccuTab II system.

AccuTab II 8

Applying Power to AccuTab II

With the wall mount power supplies, the AccuTab II is powered on as soon as the unit is
plugged into the outlet and the power switch on the Controller is turned ON. If you have a
desktop supply, turn on the power supply switch. The AccuTab II performs a self-test and
responds with a series of tones when powered up.

When you apply power, you should instantly hear four short “Success!” tones and

simultaneously see the green light in the upper right-hand corner flash four times. This
response indicates that the AccuTab II is functioning properly.

If you hear any tones before the “Success!” tones or if you do not hear the four “Success!”

tones or if the lights on the transducer do not flash four times, there is a problem.
Carefully review the installation step-by-step and correct any errors. If there is still a
problem, go the Troubleshooting section of the manual.

Configuring Your Computer

Apply power to the computer. Configure the application software to operate with AccuTab
II. Many application programs provide configuration information for specific digitizers. If
the GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies AccuTab II digitizer is not listed, you can use
the configuration for GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies Digi-Pad Type 5 or Type 5A
(T5/T5A), or CalComp 9100/9500 or Summagraphics Microgrid III.

If necessary, install the appropriate digitizer driver(s) from the Digitizer Driver CD supplied
(AutoCAD, Windows and mouse drivers are included).

NOTE: Install only the drivers that are necessary for the AccuTab II to work with your
application software.

Connecting and Using the Transducer

Three standard transducers are available for the AccuTab II:

 Cordless 4-button cursor
 Cordless 16-button cursor
 Corded 16-button illuminated cursor (high accuracy)

If you are using a corded transducer, attach the connector to the jack labeled POINTER on
the tablet’s Controller.

AccuTab II 9

The transducer does not need to be in contact with the tablet surface in order for the tablet

to sense its presence. It can be detected up to 1” above the drawing area, depending on

which transducer is being used (see Proximity in AccuTab II Specifications). This allows
you to trace through materials placed on the surface, such as a drawing or book. Also,
before using the transducer, be sure that sleep mode is turned off by pressing any button
on the transducer.

The Cursor

When using the cursor, the intersection point of
the crosshairs on the lens identifies the point

that’s selected. The crosshairs are etched on the

bottom of the lens to increase accuracy. For
maximum precision, look through the lens from
directly over it.

Button 0 on the cursor is used as the pick (or left mouse) button. All other buttons are
defined by the TabletWorks software or through your own software application.

High Accuracy Cursor

To illuminate the lens area of the high accuracy cursor, press and hold any button in the far
right column (3, 7, B or F); at the same time, press and hold any button in the far left
column (0, 4, 8 or C). The right column button must be held down while pressing the left
column button. This same procedure turns the illumination off. The illumination defaults
to off when the tablet is first powered on.

Because you will always need one right column button and one left column button free to
control the cursor illumination, you should reserve one button in each column from any
macro recording.

NOTE: AccuTab II high accuracy cursor resembles the cursor for the 9500 series tablet.
Although the only difference seems to be the presence of the row of LEDs above the top
row of buttons on the 9500 series cursors, do not interchange these cursors as damage
to both tablet and cursor may result.

Learning Basic Movements

The AccuTab II transducers provide all the basic movements of a mouse. The basic
movements are clicking, double-clicking and dragging.

AccuTab II 10

Clicking and Double-Clicking

Clicking is the action of making a selection. You may be selecting a key on the tablet
surface or making a selection from the monitor screen. To click, place the transducer or
move the screen pointer via the transducer to the item to be selected and then tap the pen
or press Button 0 on the cursor. A double-click requires you to press the button quickly
two times while the transducer remains in the same place. You can also double click by
pressing the cursor button that has been defined as a double-click button (see TabletWorks

Help).

Dragging

Dragging is the action of moving the transducer during a selection. To drag, click on an
object, but instead of releasing the tip or button, hold it down while moving the pointing
tool or corresponding object on the screen, to the desired new location.

Using the AccuSet Menu

Use the AccuSet Menu to:

 Configure AccuTab II for specific application programs
 Use the Tablet Configuration Utilities
 Control the alarm
 Reset the AccuTab II
 Test the active area

Configuring for Specific Application Programs

You can use the AccuSet Menu to quickly change the AccuTab II’s operating characteristics
to match those required by different application programs running on the computer.

To configure AccuTab II for use with specific application programs:

1. In Table 1, find the application program you’ll be using with AccuTab II. Please note

the corresponding AccuSet Code.

AccuTab II 11

 If your application program is not listed in Table 1, find the configuration

settings that apply to your application program in Table 2 and use that
AccuSet Code.

 If an appropriate AccuSet Code is not listed in Table 2, then use the Custom

Configuration Menu to set up the AccuTab.

2. Select the block on the AccuSet Menu. This lets the AccuTab II know you are

about to set a new configuration. You will hear one short beep.

NOTE: The proximity light will turn on only when the transducer is over a AccuSet
Menu block that is a valid selection (for example, the proximity light will not turn on

over a digital block until the block has been selected).

3. On the AccuSet Menu, select the two digits of the AccuSet Code for your application

program. You will hear one short beep after the first digit. Then, following the
second digit, you will hear the four short “Success!” tones informing you that the
AccuTab II has reset itself to the new configuration. The proximity light on the
transducer will also flash four times.

To cancel a menu selection before it is complete, digitize a point in the tablet’s main
active area. Three long beeps will indicate that the AccuSet selection process has
been aborted. The proximity light on the transducer will also flash three times.

4. Run the corresponding application program on your computer.

NOTE: Hardware flow control is not supported by the AccuTab II Controller. If you
have an application that requires this option, contact GTCO CalComp by Turning
Technologies for alternatives.

Table 1: AccuSet Menu Codes for Selected Application Programs

AccuTab II 12

Table 2: Configuration Details for AccuSet Menu Codes

NOTE: Max = 100 coordinates/second lpi = lines per inch lpmm = lines per millimeter

AccuTab II 13

AccuTab II 14

Using the Custom Configuration Menu

The AccuTab II with its Controller uses the Tablet Configuration Utilities to control baud
rate, data format and other operating characteristics.

If your application does not have an AccuSet Menu Code or if a different configuration is
required, then use the Custom Configuration Menu to format AccuTab II. The Custom
Configuration Menu replaces the 24 switches associated with the older Type 5A Controller.
It also replaces the Custom Configuration Menu Card used with AccuTab.

Configurations you set up can be stored in any of ten user-definable AccuSet locations
(codes 90 through 99) for recall at a later time. This allows the AccuTab II to be easily
switched between applications.

To configure AccuTab II with the Custom Configuration Menu:

Please read the Release Notes on the CD for the location of the Custom Configuration
Program.

AccuTab II 15

Communication Options

 Baud: The rate, in bits/second, at which characters are transmitted across the RS-

232C serial interface. Choices are: 1200, 2400, 4800, 9600, 19200 or 38400.

 Data Bits: Data bits represent the actual data being sent from one device to

another. Both devices must be set for the same number of data bits. Choices are:
Seven (7) or Eight (8).

 Stop Bits: Each character has one or two stop bits, which tell the receiving device

that a character is complete. The number of stop bits usually does not matter.
Setting for two stop bits instead of one may overcome a mismatch in parity or data
bits. Choices are: One (1) or Two (2).

 Parity: One bit can be allocated for parity (parity is a simple error-detecting

scheme). Both devices (sending and receiving) must be set for the same parity –
either odd parity or even parity – or they must be set for no parity. Choices are:
None (N), Even (E) or Odd (O).

Output Format Options

 GTCO: Selects GTCO-compatible formats. See Advanced Programing Information in

the AccuTab II Online Help for greater detail on GTCO format structure. Choices are:
Binary or ASCII.

 CalComp: Selects CalComp-compatible formats. See Advanced Programming

Information in the AccuTab II Online Help for greater detail on CalComp format

structure. Choices are: Binary, ASCII 1, ASCII 2, ASCII 3 or ASCII 4.

 Summa: Selects Summagraphics-compatible formats. See Advanced Programming

Information in the AccuTab II Online Help for greater detail on Summagraphic

format structure. Choices are: Binary or ASCII.

ASCII formats can be modified by including or excluding a button code, decimal point,
carriage return or line feed, depending on whether GTCO, CalComp or Summa formats
have been selected.

AccuTab II 16

 Button: Defines whether the Pushbutton (Pb) value is included in the ASCII output

report. This option is available only with GTCO formats. Choices are: Include or
Exclude.

 Space: Defines whether the Space (Sp) character (hex 20) is included in the ASCII

output report as a delimiter between the X and Y coordinate values. This option is
available only in GTCO formats. Choices are: Include or Exclude.

 Decimal: Defines whether the period character (hex 2E) is included in the ASCII

output report between the units and tenths digits. This option is available only in
Summagraphics formats. Choices are: Include or Exclude.

 Return: Defines whether the Carriage Return (CR) character (hex 0D) is included in

the ASCII output report as a terminator. This option is available in GTCO and
Summagraphics formats. Choices are: Include or Exclude.

 Line Feed: Defines whether the Line Feed (LF) character (hex 0A) is included in the

ASCII output report as a terminator. This option is available in GTCO, CalComp and
Summagraphics formats. Choices are: Include or Exclude.

Mode Options

 Mode: Defines how output reports are sent from the digitizer. Choices are: Point,

Line, Continuous, Line Incremental or Continuous Incremental.

 Rate: Determines how fast output reports will be transmitted from the digitizer.

Choices are: 12, 50 or 100 reports per second.

 Resolution: The smallest reported value returned by the digitizer. Choices are:

1000 lpi, 2000 lpi, 4000 lpi, 40 lpmm, 100 lpmm or 150 lpmm.

See the Advanced Programming Information section in the AccuTab II Online Help at

www.gtcocalcomp.com for more details.

AccuTab II 17

AccuSet Menu:

Select the menu block

GTCO Commands:

Send command AD.

AccuSet Menu:

Select the menu block

GTCO Commands:

Send command AE.

Controlling the Alarm

There are two ways to toggle the alarm on or off:

 Select the block on the AccuSet Menu.
 Use the below remote commands.

Controlling the Alarm Using Remote Commands

An alarm (audio tone) is provided so AccuTab II can inform you of certain conditions. The
alarm can be enabled or disabled by the AccuSet Menu or commands.

To hear only critical tones, turn the alarm off:

To hear all tones, turn the alarm on:

When you move the cursor over the block on the AccuSet Menu, the Proximity
indicator (red) will light if the alarm is currently enabled.

Resetting AccuTab II

There are three ways to reset AccuTab II:

 Enter AccuSet code 00 on the AccuSet Menu.
 Turn power off and on.
 Send remote commands described in the Advanced Operating Information section.

When one of these events occurs, AccuTab II will revert to the configuration that was last
defined. Any remote commands that were active before the result will be lost.

AccuTab II 18

Testing the Active Area

To test the active area of the AccuTab II:

Select the (Prox Test) block on the AccuSet Menu. AccuTab will produce a continuous
tone as long as the transducer is in proximity to the tablet. When proximity is not detected,
the tone will stop.

AccuTab II Tones

AccuTab II produces an alarm in the form of audio tones to inform you of various events.
The table below describes the kinds of tones you may hear while operating the digitizer.

Troubleshooting Guide

GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies wants your experience with AccuTab II to be a
successful one. If you ever encounter a problem, please follow the steps below:

1. Install properly first.

This troubleshooting guide assumes you have already correctly installed AccuTab II
according to the detailed instructions in the Installing Your AccuTab II section. If you
have not followed the step-by-step instructions in that section, do so now.

AccuTab II 19

2. Read the topics below to check for a solution to your problem. Work through

the troubleshooting flowcharts on the following pages in this troubleshooting
guide.

Record any unusual observations. Your notes will be useful if you need assistance
from the GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies Technical Support Team.

3. If your system still does not work.

Call GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies Technical Support at 1-866-746-3015
(in the U.S. or Canada) or email us at [e-mail]. Outside the
U.S. or Canada, contact your local GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies office or
dealer. Be prepared to discuss the observations you made while troubleshooting.

NOTE: Refer to the AccuTab II Tones table above while using this guide.

The following troubleshooting tools are included in this section:

 Troubleshooting flowcharts
 Using GTCOTEST
 Reducing monitor interference
 Computer checklist
 Software checklist

Procedure A: Begin Troubleshooting

AccuTab II 20

Procedure B: Troubleshooting

AccuTab II 21

Procedure C: Troubleshooting

AccuTab II 22

AccuTab II 23

where P
XXXXXX
YYYYYY

= pushbutton code
= X coordinate data
= Y coordinate data

Using GTCOTEST

GTCOTEST is a program that runs on your PC. It can be used to perform communication
and diagnostic tests on an installed AccuTab II. GTCOTEST is provided on the diskette you
received with the system.

1. Select AccuSet Code 01 on your AccuTab (9600, N, 8, 1, GTCO Binary, 1000 lpi, Cont,

100).

2. To run GTCOTEST, insert the TabletWorks CD in the CD-ROM drive. GTCOTEST will

work only if no Wintab drivers are installed. From the DOS prompt, switch to the
folder on the CD that contains the gtcotest.exe files. Type gtcotest and follow the
onscreen instructions.

3. Once GTCOTEST’s third screen has been reached, the pull-down menu headings will

read: Communications, Diagnostics, Setup and Check Output. Select Read Switches in

the diagnostics window. Communication has been established if 0’s and 1’s appear

in the display box.

 If GTCOTEST displays the Serial input timeout error message, try selecting

another COM port in the Communications window.

 If GTCOTEST displays the Cannot open COM port error message, try selecting

another COM port in the Communications window. (Each PC serial port has
a physical address that corresponds to a specific COM port. If there is only
one serial port installed in the computer, it will be assigned as
COM1regardless of its physical address. GTCOTEST examines only the
physical address.)

4. Once communication is established, select the Read Tablet Size and Read Version

options, making a note of the responses. This can easily be done with your print
screen key if a printer is connected to your computer.

5. Choose Check Output and then select High Res Binary.

6. Place the transducer in the active area on the tablet.

7. If everything is working properly, you should see data displayed on your computer

screen in the following format: P XXXXXX YYYYYY

8. When you move the transducer around the active area, the X and Y coordinate data

should change. When you press different cursor buttons, the pushbutton code
should adjust.

AccuTab II 24

9. If GTCOTEST indicates that the digitizer is functioning properly, check your software

application setup and AccuSet code for accuracy. If you have any questions about
your results or need help running GTCOTEST, contact our Technical Support Team
at 1-866-746-3015.

Reducing Monitor Interference

If you are experiencing monitor interference with your tablet, you can reduce the
interference by changing the frequency your tool uses. Pointing tools with FCC ID numbers
support two frequencies: ECPPPP, ECPPP2, ECPPLTP, ECPPCURSOR4, ECPPCURSOR16 and
ESPPCURSORII. Transducers with FCC ID numbers other than those listed must have
frequencies changed at GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies.

Changing the Frequency of the Cordless Cursor

1. Place the cursor on the tablet surface.

2. Press Buttons 1 and 2 simultaneously and hold for approximately three seconds.

3. The cursor turns itself off. You will know the cursor is off when the power light on

the tablet begins blinking.

4. The cursor turns on again at the new frequency. You will know the cursor is on

when the power light glows steadily.

To return to the default frequency, repeat the above process. When you replace the cursor
batteries, the cursor is automatically reset to the default frequency.

Changing the Frequency of the Cordless Pen

Press both side buttons and the tip simultaneously and hold for approximately three
seconds. To return to the default frequency, repeat the above process. When you replace
the pen batteries, the pen resets to the default frequency.

Tablet Checklist

 Is the tablet power supply plugged into both a serial connector and live outlet?
 Is the tablet power switch on?
 Does the power light glow steadily when the transducer is inside the drawing area?

Does it blink when the transducer is outside the drawing area?

 The power light will blink if the transducer has gone into sleep mode. Press any

button on the transducer to activate it. If the power light continues to blink and the
transducer is in the drawing area, change its battery.

 Are all cable connections tight?

AccuTab II 25

 Power cable to serial connector?
 Pointer cable to tablet?
 Serial cable to tablet?
 Serial cable to computer? Check that the cable is connected to the serial port

specified in your software package.

 Is the tablet set up according to the software recommendations?
 Are any of the connector cables or receptacles damaged? Check for bent pins, cut

insulation and loose wires.

Computer Checklist

 Is the computer plugged into a live outlet? Did you turn on the computer?
 Does the computer work with any of your software? Try one of your other

programs. If the computer has a diagnostic diskette, use it.

 Is your software package installed correctly?
 If your communications connection is USB, does the USB port work? If serial, does

the serial port work? The only way to test the port without special equipment is to
reinstall something that has worked in the past and see if it still works.

 Have there been any recent electrical storms in your area that may have damaged

your equipment?

Software Checklist

Does the tablet work with some software?

If your tablet currently works with some software packages, you know that the tablet, USB
or serial port and computer work.

 Even if the software package you are trying to install and the software that is

working both support the same tablets, it does not always mean that you can use
the same tablet settings. The output format may be the same, but the
communications protocol, resolution, operating mode and data rate may be
different. Check your software’s requirements.

 Call the software manufacturer. Perhaps the software package has a problem with

another component of your system.

AccuTab II 26

Did the software work in the past?

If the software package worked with the tablet in the past, then the problem lies with the
new set up.

 Check all the connectors. Is the tablet still plugged into the same port? If yes, reset

the tablet by unplugging and re-plugging the power supply and restart the software.

 Did you reset or power down the computer?
 During reset and power on, the computer can send meaningless characters out the

serial port and this can disable the tablet. Reset the tablet again.

 Have you installed any new software or hardware? Remove it from your system and

see if the problem goes away.

 Did you move any cables?
 If you are using a PC, did the new software alter your AUTOEXEC.BAT file?
 Have you updated the software or its drivers?
 Are you loading another mouse driver?
 Did you reinstall the software, perhaps after a problem with your hard drive?

Double check your installation procedure and the driver you selected.

 Reinstall the software from its master diskettes. The program files may have been

corrupted.

AccuTab II Specifications

Technology

Patented electromagnetic

Resolution

Up to 4000 lpi or 150 lpmm real resolution

Absolute Accuracy

(certified)

±0.005 in / ±0.127 mm (Standard)
±0.002 in / ±0.051 mm (Standard)

Repeatability

1 LSB (least significant bit)

Proximity

1.0 in (25.4 mm) with corded transducer
>0/4 in with cordless transducer

Self-Diagnostics

Automatic testing, drive electronics and microprocessor

Operating Modes

Point, line, continuous, line incremental, continuous incremental
and remote request

Baud Rate

Up to 38,400

Power Supply

100/120/220/240 VAC, 50/60 Hz

Operating Temperature

41 to 115°F/5 to 46°C

Humidity Range

10 to 95%, noncondensing

Storage Temperature

0 to +150°F/-18 to +68°C

Altitude Range

0 to 10,000 ft./0 to 3,077 m

Certifications

UL, CSA, FCC-B, VDE-B, CE

Cursor Switches

Elastomeric keypad, rated life over 1 million actuations

Output Formats

GTCO T5/5A Binary and ASCII, CalComp 3400, Summagraphics
Microgrid

AccuTab II 27

AccuTab II 28

Sources of Power

GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies provides a standard wall-mount power supply, for
use with the AccuTab II. If you want to use another wall mount power source due to
different input power requirements, it must supply the following output voltage: 12 to
17VDC at 500mA.

Wall mount power supply with a 2.1 mm monoplug DC connector and positive outside
diameter, 12VDC, 500mA, Center Negative power supply provided with unit.

Advanced Operating Information

AccuTab II Interfacing

Important: The following information is not required for normal AccuTab II operation.

Connecting AccuTab II to a computer is usually straight-forward (see Installing AccuTab II
section in this manual). If you do not have a typical interfacing situation, the information in
this section will help you set up the AccuTab II and connect it to another device.

The AccuTab II is equipped to communicate via RS-232C, a widely used serial interface
between computers and peripherals. RS-232C is a (more or less) standard interface, and
cables and connectors are available from a variety of sources. Most computers and
peripherals either have an RS-232C interface or can be equipped with one.

A mini-tutorial on RS-232C interfacing

This section provides basic information about RS-232C communications. There are three
areas to consider when using RS-232C:

 Character format and baud rate
 Cabling
 Flow control

Character Format and Baud Rate

Character format and baud rate govern how bits are assembled to form characters the
speed of transmission. Both the AccuTab II and the computer must have identical formats
and rates. These parameters are discussed in the Introduction to the Custom
Configuration Menu section.

AccuTab II 29

Cabling

Cabling carries the data from one device to the other. A majority of RS-232C cables have
either male 9-pin or 25-pin subminiature D connectors on their ends to match female
connectors on the equipment. The AccuTab II is supplied with an 8-pin-mini-din-to-9-pin-D
serial cable and a 9-pin-to-25-pin adapter.

Data Terminal Equipment (DTE), such as printers, digitizers and computers, usually (but not
always) transmit data on Pin 2 and receive data on Pin 3. Data Communications Equipment
(DCE), such as modems, generally transmit data on Pin 3 and receive data on Pin 2. Thus,
connecting a terminal (DTE) to a modem (DCE) may be as simple as connecting them with a
straight-through cable that is wired pin-to-pin (i.e., 1 to 1, 2 to 2, etc.). This figure shows
such a cable. The AccuTab II Controller is typically connected in this manner using the
cable supplied by GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies.

Connecting DTE to DTE, or DCE to DCE, may require a different strategy to get the data on
the correct wires. The below figure shows a cable that can work in this situation. It is called
a null modem cable and it fools both devices into thinking they are talking with the right
kind of receiver. This cable routes Pin 2 to Pin3 and Pin 3 to Pin 2.

AccuTab II 30

Your computer may have a 25-pin RS-232C connector, rather than a 9-pin connector. If so,
use the 9- to 25-pin adapter supplied with the AccuTab. The figure below shows how this
adapter is wired internally.

AccuTab II 31

Flow Control

Flow control is the process of regulating the traffic or flow of data between two RS-232C
devices. Flow control prevents the transmission and subsequent loss of data if the receiver
is not ready to accept it. Examples of devices that use flow control are: a printer to signal
buffer full; a modem to indicate carrier detect; and a time-shared computer that services
multiple users on a time-available basis.

There are two kinds of flow control:

 Software flow control is often implemented over communication links where only a

3-wire cable is used (Transmit Data, Receive Data, Ground) or over telephone lines.
The sending device (such as the AccuTab) will immediately stop sending data when
it receives an ASCII XOFF character (CTRL-S, hex 13). Transmission will resume when
it receives an ASCII XON character (CTRL-Q, hex 11). Character flow control will work
with the straight through cable and the null modem cable.

 Hardware flow control is not commonly used with digitizers and is therefore not

supported by the AccuTab Controller.

Flow control may not be needed when a terminal or digitizer is directly connected to a
single-user computer. Most digitizing application software does not use flow control of
either kind.

Remote Commands

NOTE: The following information is not required for normal AccuTab II operation.

If you are programming for the AccuTab II product line, the details will be helpful.

AccuTab II can receive commands from other devices through its RS-232C port.
Commands cause the AccuTab to change the way it operates, to use certain coordinate
formats and to do other things as directed by you or by an application process.

Commands offer another way to control AccuTab II operation besides the Custom
Configuration Menu. Certain AccuTab II functions can be carried out only through
commands.

If you are developing your own application software, be cautious about using commands in
your program. An interruption in power to the AccuTab II or a Reset will cause it to discard
any command changes it has received. This could leave your program confused about

AccuTab II 32

what the AccuTab II is doing. A full system reset would then be needed to get the AccuTab
II and computer coordinated again. A prudent programmer will limit command and control
of an AccuTab II.

The AccuTab II responds to three kinds of commands:

 GTCO AccuTab II standard commands (with some omissions and additions)
 CalComp emulation commands
 Summagraphics emulation commands

GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies AccuTab II Command Summary

Functional Control Commands

AccuTab II 33

AccuTab II 34

Select Point Mode
Select Line Mode
Select Continuous Mode
Select Line Incremental Mode
Select Continuous Incremental Mode
Select Remote Request Mode

Code: PT
Code: LN
Code: CN
Code: IC
Code: CL
Code: RM

Read Current Coordinate

Code: hex 02 (Ctrl-B)
Set Increment Value

Code: IV

Functional Control Commands

Reset Code: RS

The Reset command will reset the Controller to the last known configuration, clearing all
previous commands sent to the Controller. If a SuperSet Menu configuration has been
selected, the Reset command will reset the Controller to the SuperSet Menu value.

The Read Current Coordinate causes AccuTab II to output a coordinate while it is in Remote
Request Mode. This command can be sent to the AccuTab II only when it is digitizing and
only when Remote Request Mode has been selected by command RM. The Read Current
Coordinate command will be ignored if AccuTab II is in Command Mode. Please note that
this command is not two ASCII characters. It is the one-byte-long STX character, CTRL-B
(hex 02). AccuTab II responds to the Read Current Coordinate command by transmitting
one format.

In Line Incremental and Continuous Incremental modes, the AccuTab II outputs a
coordinate when the transducer is moved beyond a certain incremental distance in either
the X or Y direction. The default increment is 0.01”. The Set Increment Value command
allows the user to select the distance which the transducer must move to initiate
coordinate output. It works as follows:

1. Enter Command Mode by sending a CTRL-A.

2. After receiving the > prompt, send IV and a <CR> (hex 0D).

3. The Controller will respond with a <.

4. After receiving the <, send a three-digit string ranging from 000 to 999. This string

represents an increment value of 0.000 to 0.999 inch.

5. When the Controller receives the last character it will respond with a > prompt and

await the next command.

AccuTab II 35

Send Coordinates 0,0 When Transducer is Out of Active Area
No Output When Transducer is Out of Active Area

Code: OP
Code: IP

Set Digitizing Rate

Code: Rx

Digitizing rate, formats/second
Digitizing rate command

12 100 100 5 10 50
R1 R2 R3 R4 R5 R6

Change Mode Character

Code: MC

Certain situations require that the AccuTab II be able to send a coordinate when the
transducer is out of the active area. Command OP permits coordinates to be sent under
this condition. Since valid coordinates are not available when the transducer is out of the
active area, coordinates 0,0 are substituted in the format. When this command has been
executed, digitizing modes operate normally, whether the transducer is in the active area
or not. Command IP returns AccuTab II to the default condition, in which coordinates are
sent only when the transducer is in the active area.

Coordinates can be sent from AccuTab II at rates from 5 to 100 coordinates per second.
The second character in this command sets the rate, as shown in the table below. Actual
rates are limited by the communication baud rate and coordinate type you have selected.
The rates shown here are, therefore, maximum rates.

Rate Commands

Some applications may have a predefined meaning for the SOH (CTRL-A) character used to
invoke Command Mode. If so, invoking Command Mode may cause your system to do
something else. You can set the AccuTab II so that a character other than SOH is used to
begin Command Mode. Here is how to make the substitution:

1. Enter Command Mode.

2. Send MC, followed by a <CR>. Super L III responds with the prompt message:

ENTER NEW COMMAND MODE CHARACTER:

3. Enter the desired mode change character. The new mode character can be any

character except ESC (CTRL-[, hex 1B), <CR> (CTRL-M, hex 0D), CAN (CTRL-X, hex 18),
VT (CTRL-K, hex 0B), XON (CTRL-Q, hex 11) or XOFF (CTRL-S, hex 13).

Now, when you want to enter the Command Mode, send the new character. All other
command operations remain unchanged.

AccuTab II 36

Select English Measurement Scale
Select Metric Measurement Scale

Code: IN
Code: MT

Enable Echo Mode
Disable Echo Mode

Code: EM
Code: hex 0F (Ctrl-O)

ASCII Format Output

Code: AS

Command causes coordinates to be transmitted in ASCII. ASCII coordinates can be
modified by the Low/High/Highest Resolution, Pushbutton, Space, Carriage Return and Line
Feed commands and by menu settings.

Binary Format Output

Code: BI

Command causes coordinates to be transmitted in binary format. Binary coordinates can
be modified by the Low/High/Highest Resolution commands and by menu settings.

Low Resolution

Code: LR

Command modifies ASCII and binary formats. If ASCII formats have been selected, the Low
Resolution command causes the least significant digit to represent 0.01 inch or 0.1
millimeter, depending on whether English or metric scale has been selected. Both X and Y
portions of each ASCII format will be four digits long if in English scale or five digits long if in
metric scale.

If the binary format is selected, the least significant bits represent 0.005 inch or 0.1
millimeter, depending on whether English or metric scale has been selected.

High Resolution

Code: HR

Command modifies ASCII and binary formats. If ASCII formats have been selected, the
High Resolution command causes the least significant digits to represent 0.001 inch or

0.025 millimeter, depending on whether English or metric scale has been selected. Both X

Invoking these commands causes AccuTab II to scale coordinates in the desired
measurement system. The digitizer measures in only one scale at a time. See
Measurement Scales for additional information on how scale selection affects coordinate
data.

These commands control echoing by the AccuTab II. When enabled, echoing transmits
each received character back to the sending device.

Format Selection Commands

AccuTab II 37

and Y portions of each ASCII format will be six digits long.

If binary formats have been selected, the least significant bits represent 0.001 inch or 0.025
millimeter, depending on whether English or metric scale has been selected.

Highest Resolution

Code: H1

Command modifies ASCII and binary formats. If ASCII formats have been selected, the
Highest Resolution command causes the least significant digits to represent 0.0005 inch or

0.01 millimeter, depending on whether English or metric scale has been selected. Both X
and Y portions of each ASCII format will be six digits long.

If binary formats have been selected, the least significant bits represent 0.0005 inch or 0.01
millimeter, depending on whether English or metric scale has been selected.

Pushbutton Include
Pushbutton Exclude

Code: PI
Code: PE

Space Include
Space Exclude

Code: SI
Code: SE

Carriage Return Include
Carriage Return Exclude

Code: CI
Code: CE

Line Feed Include
Line Feed Exclude

Code: LI
Code: LE

These commands control the presence of the corresponding characters in ASCII formats.
Pushbutton codes and where they appear in coordinates are described in the Advanced
Programming Information section. When included, the space is an additional character
separating the X and Y components of the coordinate data. When included, the LINE FEED
is an additional character following the <CR>.

AccuTab II 38

Enable Alarm
Disable Alarm

Code: AE
Code: AD

Sound Tone
Tone Pause

Code: T1
Code: T0

Turn Status Indicator or Cursor Illumination On
Tone Status Indicator or Cursor Illumination Off

Code: ON
Code: OF

Transmit Version Number

Code: VR

Display Tablet Active Area Size

Code: SZ

Alarm Commands

These commands enable or disable the audible alarm. When enabled, a short tone will
sound when a transducer switch is pressed. When disabled, the alarm will not sound in
response to transducer switch presses, but it may be sounded by remote commands and
will be active during diagnostics and in the menu modes.

The Sound Tone command allows a remote device to sound the AccuTab II’s audible alarm.

Tone Pause provides a pause between tones. Tones and pauses are in 0.25 second
intervals. Tone commands are not affected by the Disable Alarm command.

These commands control the state of the yellow status indicator on the 16-button cursor or
the cursor lamps on the illuminated cursor.

Diagnostic Commands

Command causes AccuTab II to determine and transmit the version number of the
firmware currently installed.

AccuTab II automatically determines the size of the attached tablet’s active area when it is
turned on or reset. This command can be used to send the information to another device.
The size is encoded as four digits: two digits representing vertical size in inches followed by
two digits representing horizontal size in inches. For example, the 36” x 48” AccuTab II
sends the digits 3648 in response to this command.

Programming Example: To Send Version Command and Display Results

This QBASIC program interacts with AccuTab II in Command Mode. In this example, the
program activates Command Mode, sends the VR command and displays the resulting
firmware version transmitted by the AccuTab II.

1. Configure AccuTab II for 9600, N, 8, 1, GTCO ASCII and Point (AccuSet 03).

2. Enter and run this QBASIC program:

AccuTab II 39

Disable/Enable Echo

Code: ESC%En

CalComp Emulation Commands

AccuTab II recognizes a subset of the CalComp 9500 command set. Space does not permit
a detailed description of CalComp commands. However, most of the commands in this
subset have equivalent AccuTab II commands. For further information about the operation
of those commands, please refer to the AccuTab II command or function description in the
GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies AccuTab II Command Summary.

NOTE: CalComp commands must be terminated with a <CR>, which is not shown in the
codes listed here. Commands can be strung together by substituting an @ character for
the <ESC>% sequence after the first command and postponing the <CR> until the end of
the multiple command string.

Where n=0 to 3 (0 and 2 disable echo, 1 and 3 enable echo). If n is not included in the
command, echo is toggled on or off from its previous state.

(Equivalent to Enable Echo Mode, EM and Disable Echo Mode, hex 0F.)

AccuTab II 40

AccuTab II 41

Summagraphics Emulation Commands

AccuTab II recognizes a subset of the Summagraphics UIOF command set. Space does not
permit a detailed description of Summagraphics commands. However, most of the
commands in this subset have equivalent AccuTab II commands. For further information
about the operation of those commands, please refer to the AccuTab II command or
function description in the GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies AccuTab II Command
Summary.

AccuTab II 42

AccuTab II 43

Command Mode Basics

AccuTab II 44

To enter GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies Command Mode:

Send an ASCII CTRL-A (hex 01) character to AccuTab II. When AccuTab II receives the CTRL­A, two things happen:

 Digitizing stops and new coordinates are not generated. If Command Mode is

invoked during transmission of a coordinate, that coordinate transmission will be
completed.

 AccuTab II sends a “>” (hex 3E) as a prompt to the commanding device. AccuTab II is

now ready to accept commands.

A command consists of two upper case ASCII letters or numbers followed by a delimiter.
The delimiter lets the AccuTab II know the command is complete. There are two kinds of
delimiters:

 <CR> (carriage return, hex 0D): indicates end of current command and more

commands will follow. If the command just sent is valid, it will be carried out. The
AccuTab II then sends another > prompt and awaits the next command.

 <ESC> (escape, hex 1B): indicates end of current command and no more commands

will follow. If the command is valid, it will be carried out. Then AccuTab II will exit
Command Mode and return to Digitizing Mode.

If you are entering several commands, end each one with a carriage return delimiter. After
each <CR>, the AccuTab II carries out the command and sends a new command prompt.
After the last command or if you are entering only one command, use an <ESC>. The
Escape delimiter takes you directly back to Digitizing Mode.

AccuTab II 45

If the command entered is not recognized as a valid command, it will be ignored and
AccuTab II will send a “?” (question mark). If the delimiter following an invalid command
was an <ESC> (indicating your desire to leave Command Mode), AccuTab II stays in the
Command Mode, awaiting a valid command.

A command may be aborted before entering a delimiter by sending a CTRL-X (hex 18). The
AccuTab II then ignores the preceding one or two characters and responds with a new
prompt.

To Leave Command Mode:

Send an <ESC> (hex 1B). The <ESC> may follow a command code or it can be sent in
response to the Super L III’s prompt. AccuTab II returns to digitizing, now operating
according to the commands sent to it.

A Hint for Programmers

Here is the most efficient method for sending commands:

1. Send the CTRL-A and wait until the Controller responds with the prompt >. A loop

that retrieves one byte at a time from the serial port and checks for the > is best.

2. Send the command one character at a time. The Controller will respond by echoing

each character. Waiting for the character to be echoed will ensure that the
Controller has received the character and is waiting for the next one.

3. Once the command is complete, send a <CR> or <ESC> (hex 1B) to exit command

mode.

4. If you send a <CR>, go into a loop and grab one byte at a time until a > prompt is

received. Then continue sending commands as described in step 2.

Advanced Programming Information

NOTE: The following information is not required for normal AccuTab II operation.

If you are programming for the AccuTab II product line, the topics listed below will be
useful:

 Coordinate Formats
 Measurement Scales

AccuTab II 46

 Digitizing Modes
 Controlling the Alarm Using Remote Commands
 Programming Examples

These topics refer to commands that put AccuTab II in a different operating state. The
Remote Commands section contains detailed information about remote commands.

Command emulations for CalComp and Summagraphics digitizers are invoked
automatically when a particular format is selected via the Custom Configuration Card or
the AccuSet Menu selection. However, only AccuTab II commands are referenced in this
section.

Coordinate Formats

Coordinate format refers to the way AccuTab II encodes XY coordinate information before
it sends the data out through a communication interface. The AccuTab II and your
application program must speak the same coordinate “language” for information to be
properly transferred.

You have three basic format choices to make:

 GTCO versus CalComp or Summagraphics emulation
 Binary versus ASCII coordinates
 Coordinate resolution

The topics below describe the formats available and show you how to select them. If you
are developing your own software, these sections will also help you choose a format that
suits your needs.

Binary Formats

Binary formats encode coordinate information compactly. Binary coordinate formats are
shorter than ASCII formats, transmit faster and take up less space if stored. On the other
hand, binary formats cannot be directly displayed on a terminal or printed-they must be
converted first into displayable characters.

Binary formats use the high order bit in each byte as a synchronization bit. The first byte in
each format has its high order bit set to 1. The remaining bytes have their high order bits
set to 0. The application program must examine the high order bit of each byte to
determine when a format begins.

AccuTab II 47

AccuTab II can produce two kinds of binary formats: one is compatible with GTCO AccuTab
II and CalComp digitizers, and the other is compatible with Summagraphics digitizers. They
are quite different and are described separately in the following topics.

 GTCO/CalComp Binary Format
 Summagraphics Binary Format
 Low Resolution Binary Format
 Cursor Button Codes in Binary Format

GTCO/CalComp Binary Format

This six-byte format is compatible with the GTCO AccuTab II high resolution binary format.
It also emulates the CalComp binary format. Table 4 shows the structure of this format at
the bit level.

Table 4: GTCO/CalComp High Resolution Binary Format

AccuTab II 48

To set up the GTCO/CalComp Binary Format:

Custom Configuration Menu:

1. Select GTCO Binary or CalComp Binary (under Output Format Options).

2. Choose the desired resolution (under Mode Options).

GTCO Commands:

1. Send command BI for Binary format.

2. Send command IN for English or command MT for metric measurements.

3. Send command HR for 1000 lpi/40 lpmm, command H1 for 2000 lpi/100 lpmm or

command H1 for 4000 lpi/150 lpmm resolution.

AccuTab II 49

Summagraphics Binary Format

This eight-byte format is compatible with the Summagraphics 2000 lpi UIOF format. Table
5 shows the structure of this format at the bit level.

NOTE: This format will not support 4000 lpi on 36” x 48” or larger tablets.

To set up the Summagraphics Binary Format:

Custom Configuration Menu:

1. Select Summa Binary (under Output Format Options).

2. Choose the desired resolution (under Mode Options).

Table 5: Summagraphics Binary Format

AccuTab II 50

Cursor Button Codes in Binary Formats

Cursor button codes are always included in binary formats. You can define certain
pushbuttons on your transducer to represent information that is relevant to your task. For
example, the buttons on a 4-button cursor could represent four line widths or four colors.
By examining the button code in the format, the application program can use this
information appropriately.

Binary formats include five bits which encode the button. The bits transmitted in the
format depend on the button pressed. Table 7 and Table 8 show which bits will be sent.

Table 7: Cursor Button Codes for 4-Button Cursor

Table 8: Cursor Button Codes for 16-Button Cursors

AccuTab II 51

ASCII Formats

ASCII is a commonly used method for encoding text. ASCII coordinate formats can be
directly displayed on most printers and terminals, and can be easily handled by BASIC
programs. On the other hand, ASCII coordinate formats are longer than binary ones, so
they take longer to transmit and they occupy more space when stores in memory.

Table 9, Table 10 and Table 11 show the range of ASCII formats available on the AccuTab II.
Besides the GTCO formats, emulations are provided for CalComp (in four variations), and
Summagraphics ASCII formats. All the formats are influenced by the resolution currently in
effect (higher resolutions require an additional digit of X and an additional digit of Y).
Depending on the format, you can also choose to include or exclude certain optional
characters (cursor button code, space, decimal point, carriage return and line feed).

To set up basic ASCII Formats:

Custom Configuration Menu:

1. Select GTCO ASCII, CalComp ASCII 1-4 or Summagraphics ASCII (under Output

Format Options).

2. Select an English or metric resolution (under Mode Options).

GTCO Commands:

1. Send command AS for ASCII format.

2. Send command IN for English or command MT for metric measurements.

3. Send command LR for 100 lpi/10 lpmm, command HR for 1000 lpi/40 lpmm or

command H1 for 2000 lpi/100 lpmm resolution.

Then, you still have more decisions to make regarding the optional characters. Each of the
optional characters can be selected by using the Tablet Configuration Utilities or by
Remote Command. Check Tables 9, 10 and 11 to determine which optional characters can
be included in the format you have selected.

To include a Cursor Button Code, Space, Decimal Point or Line Feed in an ASCII
Format (where permitted):

Custom Configuration Menu: Select the “Include” option for the corresponding character.

AccuTab II 52

GTCO Commands:

 Send command PI to include the Cursor Button Code character.
 Send command SI to include the Space character.
 Send command CI to include the Carriage Return character.
 Send command LI to include the Line Feed character.

To remove a Cursor Button Code, Space, Decimal Point or Line Feed in an ASCII
Format (where present):

Custom Configuration Menu: Select the “Exclude” option for the corresponding character.

GTCO Commands:

 Send command PE to exclude the Cursor Button Code character.
 Send command SE to exclude the Space character.
 Send command CE to exclude the Carriage Return character.
 Send command LE to exclude the Line Feed character.

Table 9: GTCO ASCII Formats

Table 10: CalComp ASCII Formats

AccuTab II 53

Table 11: Summagraphics ASCII Formats

Cursor Button Codes in ASCII Formats

When the cursor button code is included in an ASCII format, the character transmitted in
the format depends on the button pressed. Table 7 and Table 8 show which character will
be sent. Instructions in the previous sections show how to include or exclude the cursor
button character in certain of the ASCII formats.

AccuTab II 54

Measurement Scales

You can choose either English or metric scaling for the coordinates you digitize. AccuTab II
applies the required conversion factor before constructing a coordinate format for output.

The numbers appearing in coordinate formats depend on resolution. Table 12 shows how
the resolution settings affect the data in coordinate formats.

To set the measurement scale:

Custom Configuration Menu: Select a resolution in the “Resolution” column of Mode
Options.

GTCO Commands:

1. Send command IN for English or command MT for metric measurements.

2. Send command LR for 100 lpi/200 LPI/10 lpmm, command HR for 1000 lpi/40 lpmm

or command H1 for 4000 lpi/150 lpmm resolution.

Metric example: The distance between two points is 2032 counts in the 40 lpmm binary
format. Each count represents 0.025 mm (from Table 12). Then, 2032 counts x 0.025
mm/count = 50.8 mm.

Table 12: Measurement Scales

Digitizing Modes

Digitizing mode refers to the method AccuTab II uses to determine when to output a
coordinate format. Six digitizing modes are available, but only one can be used at a time:

 Point Mode
 Line Mode (sometimes called Switched Stream Mode)
 Continuous Mode (sometimes called Stream Mode)

 Line Incremental Mode
 Continuous Incremental Mode
 Remote Request Mode

Table 14 will help you compare digitizing modes.

Table 14: Results of Active Area and Pushbutton Changes in Digitizing Modes

AccuTab II 55

Table 13: Rate Commands

AccuTab II 56

Custom Configuration Menu:

GTCO Commands:

Select the Point option under Mode.

Send command PT.

Custom Configuration Menu:

GTCO Commands:

Select Line Mode.

Send command LN.

Custom Configuration Menu:

GTCO Commands:

Select 12, 50 or 100 under Rate.

Send command Rx (where x = 1-6), as
shown in Table 13.

Point Mode

In Point Mode, one coordinate is sent when a transducer button is pressed. Output occurs
only when the transducer is in the active area.

To select Point Mode:

Line Mode

In Line Mode, coordinates are sent as long as a transducer button is pressed. Output
occurs only when the transducer is in the active area.

To select Line Mode:

To set the rate at which coordinates are sent in Line Mode:

Note that digitizing rate is also dependent on the communication baud rate and format
type you have selected. The rates shown in Table 13 are therefore maximum rates.

Surprisingly, if your system seems to respond slowly to digitizer input, it may be because
the digitizer coordinate output rate is set too high. This may occur when a program buffers
excess coordinate data, thus causing a time delay.

AccuTab II 57

Custom Configuration Menu:

GTCO Commands:

Select the “Cont” option under Mode; select

12, 50 or 100 under Rate.

Send command CN; to select a rate, send
command Rx (where x = 1-6), as shown in
Table 13.

Custom Configuration Menu:

GTCO Commands:

Select the “Line Incr” option under Mode.

Send command IC; to set a new increment
value, send command IV and at the prompt,
send three digits representing the new
increment in units of 0.001”.

Custom Configuration Menu

Select the “Cont Incr” option under Mode.

Continuous Mode

In Continuous Mode, coordinates are sent continuously, at the specified output rate.
Output occurs only when the transducer is in the active area. Output occurs continuously,
whether or not a transducer button is pressed.

To select Continuous Mode:

Line Incremental Mode

In Line Incremental Mode, one coordinate is sent when the transducer is moved farther

than a preset increment and a transducer button is pressed. Default increment is 0.01”.

Output occurs only when the transducer is in the active area.

To select Line Incremental Mode:

Continuous Incremental Mode

In Continuous Incremental Mode, one coordinate is sent when the transducer is moved
farther than a preset increment or a transducer button is pressed or released. Default
increment is 0.01”. Output occurs only when the transducer is in the active area.

To select Continuous Incremental Mode:

AccuTab II 58

GTCO Commands:

Send command CL; to set a new increment
value, send command IV and at the prompt,
send three digits representing the new
increment in units of 0.001”.

Custom Configuration Menu:

GTCO Commands:

Not available.

Send command RM.

AccuSet Menu:

GTCO Commands:

Select the Alarm menu block

Send command AD.

AccuSet Menu:

GTCO Commands:

Select the Alarm menu block.

Send command AE.

Remote Request Mode

In Remote Request Mode, one coordinate is sent when the Controller receives a Read
Current Coordinate command (CTRL-B).

To select Remote Request Mode:

Controlling the Alarm Using Remote Commands

An alarm (audio tone) is provided so the AccuTab II can inform you of certain conditions.
The alarm can be enabled or disabled by the

Menu or commands.

To hear only critical tones, turn the alarm off:

To hear all tones, turn the alarm on:

When you move the cursor over the Alarm block on the AccuSet Menu, the Proximity
indicator (green) will light if the alarm is currently enabled.

AccuTab II 59

Programming Examples: Reading and Displaying AccuTab II Formats

The following example QBASIC programs will allow you to experiment with reading and
displaying AccuTab II formats:

 To read high resolution binary formats
 To read ASCII formats

Programming Example: To Read High Resolution Binary Formats

1. Configure AccuTab II for 9600, N, 8, 1, GTCO Binary and Continuous (AccuSet 01).

2. Enter and run this QBASIC program:

Programming Example: To Read ASCII Formats

1. Configure the AccuTab II for 9600, N, 8, 1, GTCO ASCII and Continuous (AccuSet 53).

2. Enter and run this QBASIC program:

General Product Information

AccuTab II 60

Radio and Television Interference

The user is cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the
party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits of a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This
equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and
used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee the interference will not occur in a
particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or
television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the
user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following
measures:

 Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
 Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
 Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the

receiver is connected.

 Reorient or coil cables.
 Consult the dealer or an experienced Radio/TV technician for help.

NOTE: Any cables the user adds to the device must be shielded to be in compliance with
the FCC standards. Any unauthorized modification to this device could result in the
revocation of the end user’s authority to operate this device.

Bescheinigung des Herstellers/Importeurs

Heirmit wird bescheinigt, dass der/die/das

AccuTab II

(Geraet, Typ, Bezeichnung)

im Uebereinstimmung mit den Bestimmungen der

Vfg 1046/1984

(Amtsblattverfuegung)

AccuTab II 61

Funk-Entstort ist.

Der Deutschen Bundespost wurde das Inverkehrbringen dieses Geraetes angezeigt und die
Berechtigung zur Ueberpruefung der Serie auf Einhaltung der Bestimmungen eingeraumt.

GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies, Inc.
(Name des Herstellers/Importeurs)

Dieses Geraet wurde einzeln sowohl als auch in einer Anlage, die einen normalen
Anwendungsfall nachbildet, auf die Einhaltung der Funkentstoerbestimmungen
geprueft. Es ist jodoch moeglich, dass die Funkentstoerbestimmungen unter
unguenstigen Umstaenden bei anderen Geraetekombinationen nicht eingehalten
werden. Fuer die Einhaltung der Funk-entstoerbestimmungen seiner gesamten Anlage,
in der dieses Geraet betrieben wird, ist der Betrieber verantwortlich. Einhaltung mit
betreffenden Bestimmungen kommt darauf an, dass geschirmte Ausfuhrungen
gebraucht werden. Fuer die beschaffung richtiger Ausfuhrungen ist der Betrieber
verantwirtlich.

AccuTab II 62

Limited Warranty for AccuTab II

GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies, Inc. warrants these products to be free from defects in
material and workmanship under the following terms. Complete and return the enclosed warranty
registration card to ensure that your products are covered with this warranty.

Coverage

Parts and labor are warranted for two (2) years from the date of the first consumer purchase for the
digitizer tablet, controller, transducers and tablet accessories. Power supply and cables are also
warranted for two (2) years. This warranty applies to the original consumer purchaser only.

Within the European Union, the warranty period is two (2) years, as mandated by the EU. Contact
your local dealer or distributor for additional warranty information.

Warranty is only valid if original consumer’s purchase or lease date is less than or equal to six

months from the original GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies sale date. This information will
be captured by the system serial number and confirmed by the reseller’s purchase order.

A nominal Warranty Handling Fee will be charged after the first 90 days of use and calculated from
the date of original consumer purchase. This payment may be made by Visa, MasterCard or
American Express. A copy of the sales receipt or invoice will be required for warranty verification.

Conditions

Except as specified below, this warranty covers all defects in material or workmanship in the
products. The following are not covered by the warranty:

1. Any product on which the serial number has been defaced, modified or removed (if

applicable).

2. Damage, deterioration or malfunction resulting from:
a. Accident, misuse, abuse, neglect, fire, water, lightning or other acts of nature,

unauthorized modification for any purpose, unauthorized product modification, or
failure to follow instructions supplied with the product.

b. Repair or attempted repair by anyone not authorized by GTCO CalComp by Turning

Technologies.

c. Any damage in shipment of the product (claims must be presented to the carrier).
d. Any other cause which does not relate to a manufacturing defect.

3. Any product not sold or leased to a consumer within six months of GTCO CALCOMP BY

TURNING TECHNOLOGIES original sale date.

GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies will pay all labor and material expenses for covered items,
but will not pay for the following:

1. Removal or installation charges.

AccuTab II 63

2. Costs for initial technical adjustments (setup), including adjustment of user controls.

3. Certain shipping charges. (Payment of shipping charges is discussed in the next section of

this warranty.)

4. Packaging costs. (Customers should keep their boxes.)

Warranty Service Procedures

1. To obtain service on your GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies product, contact the

Technical Support Department to receive a Return Material Authorization Number (RMA#)
and shipping instructions by calling: 1-866-746-3015.

2. Ship the product to GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies with the RMA# marked clearly

on the outside of the box. Without a clearly marked RMA# on the shipping box, GTCO
CalComp by Turning Technologies reserves the right to refuse the shipment.

3. Although you must pay any shipping charges to ship the product to GTCO CalComp by

Turning Technologies for warranty service, GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies will pay
the return shipping charges for ground shipment. Other shipping options are available at an
additional fee.

4. Whenever warranty service is required, the original dated sales invoice (or a copy) must be

presented as proof of warranty coverage and should be included in shipment of the product.
Please also include your name, address, telephone number, fax number, email address and
a description of the problem.

5. If GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies determines that the unit is not defective within

the terms of the warranty, the consumer shall pay the cost of all freight charges, as well as
any repair charges.

Technical Support

Web-based Technical Support is available free of charge at: www.gtcocalcomp.com, where current
driver releases, as well as comprehensive technical support, troubleshooting, Technical Bulletins and
FAQs can be found.

Telephone Technical Support is available free of charge to the original consumer for a period of 90
days from the date of purchase of the product. Please contact our Technical Support Department
at: 1-866-746-3015 or fax your request to: 480.998.1751.

Disclaimer of Unstated Warranties

The warranty printed above is the only warranty applicable to this purchase. ALL OTHER
WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES
OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE ARE DISCLAIMED. Assuming the
warranty above stated is otherwise applicable, it is expressly understood and agreed that GTCO
CalComp by Turning Technologies sole liability whether in contract, tort, under any warranty, in
negligence or other shall be for the repair or replacement of the defective parts and under no
circumstances shall GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies be liable for special, indirect or

AccuTab II 64

consequential damages. The price stated and paid for the equipment is a consideration in limiting
GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies liability.

Notice

Some states and provinces do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential
damages, so the above exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights,
and you may have other rights, which vary from state to state, or province to province.

To obtain service on your GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies product, call our Technical
Support Department at: 1-866-746-3015 or fax us at [phone]. We can also be contacted
through our website at www.gtcocalcomp.com (in US); at [e-mail] (in Germany);
at [e-mail] (in France).

Important!

All products returned to GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies for service must have prior
approval in the form of a Return Merchandise Authorization Number (RMA#), which can be obtained
by calling the Technical Support Department.

AccuTab II 65

Corporate Headquarters

14557 N. 82nd Street

Scottsdale, Arizona 85260

Tel: [phone]

Support: 1-866-746-3015

Fax: [phone]

Support: 1.866.746.3015

Copyright© 2014 GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies, Inc.

AccuTab II is a trademark of GTCO CalComp by Turning Technologies, Inc.

All other products and company names are the trademarks or registered trademarks of

their respective owners.

The information contained in this document is subject to change without notice. GTCO CalComp by

Turning Technologies assumes no responsibility for technical, or editorial errors, or omissions that may

appear in this document, or for the use of this material. Nor does GTCO CalComp by Turning

Technologies make any commitment to update the information contained in this document. This

document contains proprietary information which is protected by copyright. All rights reserved. No part of

this document can be photocopied or reproduced in any form without the prior, written consent of GTCO

CalComp by Turning Technologies, Inc.