Wacom tablet: common problems and solutions

If you have a Wacom digital tablet, and you use it a lot, you may occasionally encounter unexpected problems. Have your brush dynamics stopped working? Is your screen mapping incorrect (cursor does not reach all fours edges of display area)? Do you experience intermittent cursor movement or none at all? Do you suffer from unexpected clicking? For Intermittent cursor or unexpected clicking, jump to step 4. Otherwise let's start with some simple steps that often help.

1) The simplest thing to try is to reboot your computer (and also restart your drawing program.)

2) If any new software was recently installed, it might be causing a conflict. Did the symptoms begin on the same day the new software was installed? Try uninstalling the new software and rebooting.

3) The next step is to uninstall and reinstall the Wacom drivers. Uninstall ALL tablet drivers including drivers for previous tablets. Previous drivers can cause conflicts. Disconnect your tablet and reinstall the correct drivers. Be sure to follow manufacturer instructions, and do not reattach the device prematurely. You can also check the Wacom website for newer drivers.

4) try plugging it into a different USB port on your computer
Sometimes USB ports can go bad if they are constantly stressed by moving cables. Even if the USB port is okay, sometimes unplugging and plugging into  another port will force your computer to recognize the device.

5) If your tablet stops and starts working intermittently... Inconsistent cursor movement, unexpected clicking can be the result of broken wires inside the tablet cord (or in the USB port in newer models). The wires inside the plastic cable (or the wiring in the port) can become damaged from pulling twisting and regular use, even if the plastic casing seems perfectly fine. Damage is most likely to occur where the cable connects to the tablet. If you use something about the size of a popsicle stick or ball point pen and some tape to completely immobilize the cable at the connection point so it cannot bend or twist, you may be able to prevent or minimize the problem before the damage make the tablet unusable. Cables can also be replaced, but consult your manufacturer about prices and warranty coverage. Remember that attempted home replacement may void your warranty if you have one. (This journal entry was written in 2012. Newer tablets may have a detachable USB cord/port which is similarly fragile)

6) Please do not ask for troubleshooting advice here. If you are experiencing other problems or if the problem persists after you try the suggestions listed here, please contact wacom customer support or explore the Wacom forums: forum.wacom.eu/ or search the Internet for your symptom and possible solutions.

other resources: Concept Art's Wacom troubleshooting section: conceptart.org/forums/showthre… and general wacom threads: conceptart.org/forums/forumdis…


good luck