Selecting a Digitizer: When selecting a digitizer, you should consider:
1. Size: Small format is 12"x12", 12"x18", and 18"x24', large format is 20"x24", 24"x36", 30"x36", 36"x48", 44"x60". The sizes listed are the ACTIVE area of the digitizer, the actual size is larger and can be found in the specifications of each digitizer below. Some Engineers and Graphic Artists can use the small format, but all Estimators and GIS usually require a large format. D Size drawings require a 30"x36" while E size (most commercial work) requires a 36" x 48".
2. Software: All digitizers except the QuikRuler require software and a computer. VectorteC carries three versions of Takeoff Software that will work with a digitizer to give you a graphical representation of your takeoff on the computer screen. The QuikRuler does not require a computer or software.
3. Hardboard or Roll-Up Digitizer: Roll-Up Digitizers are portable, so if you are going to be moving the digitizer from office to office or to the jobsite, you may want to consider a GTCO Roll-Up Digitizer. However, Hardoards will read though one inch of plans while a Roll-Up Digitizer will read through a half inch.
4. Input Device: 2 Button Pen Stylus, 4 Button Cursor, and 16 Button Cursors are available with all boards. Some boards offer them in the wireless version also. The buttons on the 4 and 16 Button Cursors can be programed to perform functions from your Takeoff Software. Some users prefer the Pen Stylus because of the more familiar shape.
5. Table, Stand, Pedestal: If your table is not large enough for a digitizer (Check the FOOTPRINT in specifications), then you may want to purchase a Pedestal.
6. Accuracy:
Construction Estimators - usually require the standard .010 accuracy level available in the GTCO Roll-Up Digitizer, QuikRuler, or Super L III Digitizer. The GTCO Roll-Up Digitizer is the only Roll-Up Digitizer digitizer available in the market today and is included with the QuikRuler. The QuikRuler can be used without a computer and software. The Super L III Digitizer is a hardboard and includes the widest variety of input devices available, all corded or cordless.
Engineers, Architects, and GIS that require an accuracy level of .005 or .002 will need to compare the AccuTab VI, DrawinBoard IV, and the Summagrid VI. The AccuTab VI combines all the best technology of the three boards and comes with a 2-year warantee as compared to a 1-year with the DrawingBoard IV and Summagrid VI.
Literature
