12/06/2014
So this is my new toy: an LED panel lightpad. This baby retails for around $70 on Amazon and features super bright (but dimmable!) lighting. In the attached image, the sketch is on 60 lb sketch paper and the piece over it is on bristol. As you can see, there's no issue making out every last detail through the bristol. It's A3 size (tabloid) and around a quarter inch thick. I also love that it runs on a 5v 1a power supply, so with the right converter cable you can easily power it from a USB port (working on that modification, more as it develops). So far, my only gripes are that the included power cord is a little short and that there is a lot of light bleed through the clear sides. The bleed is easily remedied with a little electrical tape, which I find adds the benefit of a nice grip surface on the sides. Overall, it's a pretty good bargain I'm thinking. We'll see how well it lasts as I abuse it with my artwork for the next 18 months (the length of the warranty) ;-)
