Graphics tablet

A graphics tablet is a computer peripheral device that allows one to hand-draw images directly into a computer, generally through an imaging program. Graphics tablets consist of a flat surface upon which the user may 'draw' an image using an attached stylus, a pen-like drawing apparatus. The image generally does not appear on the tablet itself but, rather, is displayed on the computer monitor.

It is interesting to note that the stylus, as a technology, was originally designed as a part of the electronics, but later it simply took on the role of providing a smooth, but accurate 'point' that would not damage the tablet surface while 'drawing'.