FAQ for Bamboo Spark

Bamboo Spark – frequently asked questions

Presale

What is the Bamboo™ Spark and how does it work?

The Bamboo Spark is a smart folio that empowers you to digitally capture your ideas while you write with pen on paper. Push a button and your handwritten notes are transferred to the Bamboo Spark app on your smartphone or tablet (Bluetooth® Smart Ready devices with Android or iOS).

Sync your files with the Wacom Cloud to easily access your ideas also on other devices for editing, collaborating, sharing and organizing. Within the Wacom Cloud your content stays editable thanks to the WILL universal ink.

Use the Bamboo™ Paper app to further edit your ideas in iOS or Android.

Also export to Dropbox and Evernote.

Why would I need the Bamboo Spark?

The Bamboo Spark allows you to work on paper then save your files to access on your Bluetooth® Smart Ready devices (Android™, iOS) and your Mac or PC for editing, collaborating, sharing and organizing. Files can be saved as PDF, JPG or WILL (Wacom Ink Language Layer) formats, which can be exported to Dropbox and Evernote or emailed. Use Bamboo Paper to further edit your ideas in iOS or Windows and then share via the Wacom Cloud.

Does the Bamboo Spark come in other colors?

The Bamboo Spark is only available in gray.

What is the difference between the models of the Bamboo Spark?

There are three different models of the Bamboo Spark:

· Smart folio with gadget pocket – designed for carrying your notebook, smartphone and pen.

· Smart folio with tablet sleeve – designed with a flexible sleeve for your tablet along with storage for paper, pen and smartphone.

· Smart folio with snap-fit for iPad Air 2 – designed to hold and protect your iPad Air 2.

What is the maximum size of device that will fit in the Smart folio with tablet sleeve (CDS600P) version?

The tablet sleeve can hold a tablet with a screen size of up to 246 mm (9.7 inches) diagonal with external dimensions of 174 x 240 x 7 mm (W x H x D) (6.8 x 9.4 x 0.27 inches).

Since it’s designed for devices the size of the iPad Air 2 or smaller, use those exceeding these dimensions, e.g., iPad (4th generation), iPad (3rd generation) and Samsung Galaxy Tab A 9.7”, with the Smart folio with gadget pocket (CDS600G) instead.

What is the price of the Bamboo Spark?

The Bamboo Spark retails for $159.99. To purchase a Bamboo Spark, go to Wacom.com and click on "Store" or visit your local retailer.

Where can I buy the Bamboo Spark?

The Bamboo Spark can be purchased online through Wacom.com, Amazon.com or through our list of retailers. To find a store near you, go to Wacom.com and select "Products" then choose "Bamboo Spark."

What is included with the Bamboo Spark?

The Bamboo Spark smart folio comes with a pen, two pen ink refills, a nib removal tool, a 30-page notepad, a USB charging cable and a quick start guide. Everything you need to use the Bamboo Spark is included in the box. The notepad included lets you begin using your Bamboo Spark right away, but you can use any paper as long as the size is A5 (5.8 x 8.3 in) or smaller and stacked less than 50 sheets thick.

Set-up

How do I connect my Bamboo Spark to my device?

First, make sure that your device has Bluetooth® smart technology enabled. Then, download and open the Bamboo Spark app from your device's app store. The Bamboo Spark app will guide you through the pairing process for your Bluetooth enabled iOS or Android™ devices. For more information, visithttp://www.wacom.com/getting-started/bamboo-spark

How do I charge my Bamboo Spark?

Charge your Bamboo Spark by using the included USB cable and plugging it into your computer or any other USB charger.

Are there any online tutorials or videos I can access to help?

Yes, to learn more about Bamboo Spark, visit our getting started page at http://www.wacom.com/getting-started/bamboo-spark

Power/Battery

How do I turn the Bamboo Spark on and off?

To turn your Bamboo Spark on and off, use the power switch located on the lower edge of your Bamboo Spark. With the Bamboo Spark facing front, turn the switch to the left to turn the power off; turn the switch to the right to turn the power on.

Do I need to switch off the Bamboo Spark?

The Bamboo Spark goes into sleep mode after 30 minutes of inactivity. To wake the Bamboo Spark, press the ‘Page’ button. To save power, turn off the power when not using the Bamboo Spark.

When and how do I recharge the Bamboo Spark?

A blinking orange LED light on your Bamboo Spark starts indicates that the battery is low. To recharge your Bamboo Spark, use the included USB cable and connect it to your computer’s USB drive or other USB charger. The LED light will turn solid orange when it is charging, and turn off when charging is complete.

How long does the Bamboo Spark battery last?

The Bamboo Spark battery will last up to 8 hours with continuous use.

How do I replace the battery in my Bamboo Spark?

Currently, it is not possible to replace the battery.

Do I have to plug my Bamboo Spark into the computer or can I charge it using my phone/tablet charger?

The Bamboo Spark can be charged by most types of USB chargers with the micro USB cable.

How long does my Bamboo Spark take to charge?

It takes approximately 2.5 hours to fully charge your Bamboo Spark.

Pen

Can I use my own pen or other writing device?

It is necessary to use the Bamboo Spark pen. It contains technology that communicates with the Bamboo Spark.

Does the Bamboo Spark pen have pressure sensitivity?

Yes, the Bamboo Spark supports 1024 levels of pressure.
There will be some movement at the tip of the pen, as the pressure switch within the pen must allow for a certain degree of movement. If you feel that the movement is excessive, go to wacom.com and click on “Support”.

Is the Bamboo Spark compatible with other Wacom pens?

No, the Bamboo Spark is only compatible with the Bamboo Spark pen.

Will the pen work as a stylus on my other devices?

The Bamboo Spark pen will not work as a stylus on other devices. It is only meant to be used with the Bamboo Spark and using it as a stylus with other devices could cause damage.

Can I use my Bamboo Spark pen with another Bamboo Spark?

Yes, you can use your Bamboo Spark pen with another Bamboo Spark.

Accessories

Paper

Is special paper needed to use the Bamboo Spark?

Although we recommend using A5 paper (5.8 x 8.3 in), you can use many types of paper as long as it is no thicker than 50 pages. The Bamboo Spark is designed for use with standard A5 size office notebooks that open from the top. To purchase A5 notepads that fit your Bamboo Spark as well as other accessories, go to wacom.com and click on "Store.”

Where can I find the notebook?

For accessories including notepads and other product options, go to Wacom.com and click on "Store."

Can I use the back of the paper?

Yes, you can use the back side of your paper, as long as it covers the active area of the Bamboo Spark.

Can I use any size paper with my Bamboo Spark?

Yes, you can use most office-sized paper, up to 50 pages or approximately 5 mm or 1/5 inch thick with the Bamboo Spark, but only work captured in the active area will be transferred to the digital version. For that reason, we recommend using A5 paper (5.8 x 8.3 in). The Bamboo Spark is designed for use with standard A5 size office notebooks that open from the top.

Can I use a Rhodia notebook with Bamboo Spark?

Because standard Rhodia notebooks include more than 50 pages, they are not currently compatible with the Bamboo Spark.

Ink refill

How do I change the ink refill?

Your Bamboo Spark comes with a nib removal tool. Use this tool to pull your ink cartridge out. To refill your ink, simply insert another cartridge in the tip and push to make sure it stays in.

How long does the ink last?

One Bamboo Spark pen ink cartridge lasts approximately 3 months with moderate note taking.

Where can I buy a refill?

For ink refills, accessories and other product options, go to Wacom.com and click on "Store."

Are the ink refills unique to the Bamboo Spark?

Yes, the ink refills that come with the Bamboo Spark are unique to the product. The copper coating on the cartridge helps the communication between the pen and the Bamboo Spark.

Does the Bamboo Spark have different color ink refills?

No, the Bamboo Spark pen only comes with black ink.

USB cable

Can I get another USB cable to charge my Bamboo Spark when I’m away from home?

Yes, you can use any micro USB cable with the Bamboo Spark.

Compatibility

Which devices can be used with Bamboo Spark?

For a complete list of tested devices go to wacom.com/comp.

iPads featuring Bluetooth® smart technology and iOS 8 or later:

· iPad Air 2

· iPad Air

· iPad mini 4

· iPad mini 3

· iPad mini 2

· iPad mini

· iPad (4^th generation)

· iPad (3^rd generation)

iPhones featuring Bluetooth® smart technology and iOS 8 or later:

· iPhone 6s

· iPhone 6+

· iPhone 6

· iPhone 5c

· iPhone 5s

· iPhone 5

· iPhone 4s

Android™ tablets featuring Bluetooth® smart technology and Android 4.3 or later. We tested a limited number of devices including:

· Samsung Galaxy Tab® 3 8.0”

· Samsung Galaxy Note® 10.1’ 2014 Edition

· Samsung Galaxy Note® Pro 12.2”

· Samsung Galaxy Note® 3

· Nexus 7

· Nexus 9

· LG G3

· ZenFone 5

How can I check if my Android smartphone or tablet will work with Bamboo Spark?

To check compatibility, go to the Google Play Store from your smartphone or tablet and look for the Bamboo Spark app. If it is listed, then your device is supported.

Does the Bamboo Spark work with Microsoft Windows system?

No, the Bamboo Spark smart folio is not compatible with Microsoft Windows at this time.

Will the Bamboo Spark work with my Cintiq® Companion tablet?

No, the Bamboo Spark smart folio is not compatible with the Cintiq® Companion, Cintiq® Companion Hybrid or the Cintiq® Companion 2.

Can I use my Bamboo Spark with multiple devices?

Yes, you can use your Bamboo Spark with different devices as long as the device is compatible. (See our compatibility list at wacom.com/comp). However, you can only connect Bamboo Spark to one device at a time. It is possible to install and use Bamboo Spark app on multiple devices though. To acess notes on a web, go to inkspace.wacom.com.

Can I use the Bamboo Spark with my computer?

No, you cannot directly use Bamboo Spark with your computer. However, using an Inkspace (Wacom Cloud) account, you can upload your files to the cloud. Once in the cloud, you can access your files in JPG and PDF format from another device by going to inkspace.wacom.com.

LED lights

What do the LED lights mean?

LED	Description
Blue blinking	Pairing during setup Capturing as you write
Blue solid	Power on, page has content
Green solid	Power on, page is empty
Orange blinking	Low battery
Orange solid	Battery charging
Blue-orange	Memory full

Bamboo Spark app

How much does the Bamboo Spark app cost?

The Bamboo Spark app can be downloaded for free from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.

Does the Bamboo™ Fineline 2 work with the Bamboo Spark app?

The Bamboo Fineline 2 does not work with the Bamboo Spark app. If you would like to add changes to your notes, please use the Fineline 2 with Bamboo Paper.

Can I add strokes and color to my page?

You can add and delete strokes using the Bamboo Spark app. Export your page to Bamboo™ Paper to add color and use other types of pens.

Which file formats does the app support?

The Bamboo Spark app creates WILL (Wacom Ink Language Layer) files which can be exported as JPG, PDF or WILL files.

Can I edit my pages?

You can edit your pages with the Bamboo Spark app on your iOS or Android device, or export your notes to work on them from another device. There are a variety of editing features within the Bamboo Spark app. You can split pages, combine pages as well as draw and delete content. For more sophisticated editing options, export your pages to Bamboo™ Paper. This app offers a selection of pens and brushes for writing, sketching, coloring and highlighting.

How do I organize my pages?

Your pages are organized by date and time. If you export your pages to Inkspace (Wacom Cloud), you can organize your pages into folders. If you export your pages to Bamboo Paper, you can organize your pages into notebooks. Go to inkspace.wacom.com to sign up or log in.

Can I tag my pages?

No, you cannot tag your pages in the Bamboo Spark app. However, your Bamboo Spark pages can be organized, sorted, tagged and renamed on Inkspace (Wacom Cloud).

Can I search my files?

Not at this time.

Can I rotate my page?

Yes, you can rotate your page clockwise by 90 degrees.

Can I recover deleted notes?

No, you cannot recover deleted notes on the Bamboo Spark app. However, on Inkspace (Wacom Cloud), deleted files remain in the cloud's trash can and can be recovered prior to emptying the trash can.

How do I share or export my notes?

You can export or share notes from the Bamboo Spark app or online on Inkspace (Wacom Cloud). Your notes can be exported in a variety of single-layer file formats including JPG, PDF or WILL (Wacom Ink Language Layer).

Does the Bamboo Spark app support layers?

No, the Bamboo Spark app does not currently support layers.

How can I export my files from Bamboo Spark into Adobe^® Illustrator^® as vector graphics?

To use your Bamboo Spark notes and sketches as vector graphic files in Adobe Illustrator, you will need to:
Sync your files with your device using Bamboo Spark app. Go to the Spark app > select one or multiple notes > export as PDF > open the PDF in desktop in Adobe Illustrator.

Does the app have handwriting to text (OCR)?

No, the Bamboo Spark app does not currently support handwriting to text.

What languages does the Bamboo Spark app support?

The Bamboo Spark app supports English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Polish, German, Italian, Dutch, Russian, Japanese, Korean, Traditional Chinese and Simplified Chinese.

How do I know the Bamboo Spark is paired to the app?

To see if Bamboo Spark is connected to an app, check in the Bamboo Spark app setting to see if there is a Bamboo Spark device connected.

Compatible apps

Do other Wacom apps work with the Bamboo Spark?

You can export your files from the Bamboo Spark app to Bamboo Paper for further editing. You can also export your files in JPG or JPG formats to most apps that are compatible with these formats.

Can I edit my notes?

You can make your Bamboo Spark notes more colorful and expressive with Bamboo Paper. This app offers a selection of pens and brushes for writing, sketching, coloring and highlighting. Additionally, the app offers premium notebooks with a wide range of different paper types as well as the option to enrich your notes by adding images.

Can I use my files in Dropbox, Evernote, Google Docs, or iPhoto?

Yes, your Bamboo Spark files can be easily exported as JPG, PDF or WILL (Wacom Ink Language Layer) files to most any workspace or service that accepts these file formats including Dropbox, Evernote, Google Drive and iPhoto. Once exported, you can access files directly or share via email.

What is a WILL file?

WILL, which stands for Wacom Ink Layer Language, is a universal inking engine and ink layer framework which connects hardware, software and applications.
WILL is a technology that enables high quality digital pen and ink experience.
It allows users to exchange their creations between solutions that use WILL technology.
The ink remains editable and can be used in different WILL compatible apps, software and services.

Can I use my files in Microsoft OneNote?

Yes, you can import your Bamboo Spark file in a PDF or JPG format to access it as a picture in OneNote.

Using my Bamboo Spark

What is the active area on my Bamboo Spark?

The active area on the Bamboo Spark is the writing or drawing area where the pen is detected. This area is roughly the size of A5 paper.

Can I write all the way to the edges and corners of the paper?

Yes, as long as all writing is captured within the active area of the Bamboo Spark you can write to the edges and corners of the paper.

How long does it take to transfer my notes from my Bamboo Spark to the app?

Transfer speeds from the Bamboo Spark smart folio to the Bamboo Spark app vary depending on a number of factors including the number of pages stored, the kind of content on each page and the type of device being used.

Do I have to use my tablet or smartphone when using my Bamboo Spark?

No, you do not need to have your device with you in order to use your Bamboo Spark. The Bamboo Spark has its own memory and can hold up to 100 pages before you need to transfer files to your device. You will know when the memory is full when both the blue and orange LEDs are illuminated.

Can I orient my Bamboo Spark in landscape mode rather than portrait?

Yes, you can adjust page orientation in the Bamboo Spark app settings. Go to the general settings and look for “Device Orientation,” where you change the page orientation of your Bamboo Spark by 90 degrees.

Does the case have to lay flat or can I prop up my device?

You can use the Bamboo Spark in many different positions.

When I get to the end of the page does it create a new one automatically?

No, you will need to press the ‘Page’ button to create a new page.

Will my Bamboo Spark work if I use a ruler or straightedge?

Yes, but only use a plastic ruler as a metal ruler will interfere with the functionality of your Bamboo Spark.

Will using a screen protector on my device impact the way my Bamboo Spark works?

Using a screen protector on your tablet or smartphone does not impact Bamboo Spark performance.

Do I have to use the Bamboo Spark app to use Bamboo Spark?

Yes, the Bamboo Spark app is necessary to transfer your notes to another device.

How long before Bamboo Spark goes into sleep mode?

Bamboo Spark goes into sleep mode after 30 minutes.

How I can wake up Bamboo Spark?

Press ‘Page’ button.

Care

How do I clean my Bamboo Spark?

Turn off the power before cleaning Bamboo Spark. Use a soft brush such as a shoe brush. Do not use alcohol, other organic solvents, or neutral detergents, as they may cause a color change or other damage.

Environmental factors

Will the Bamboo Spark cause interference with other electronics?

As with any electronic device, the Bamboo Spark can cause interference, especially with a Bluetooth device. The Bamboo Spark generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and may cause harmful interference to radio communications. You can determine whether the equipment is causing interference by turning off Bluetooth on your device and turning off the Bamboo Spark. If the interference stops, it was caused by the Bamboo Spark. If the stylus does cause interference to radio or television reception, you may be able to correct the interference by using one or more of the following measures:

• Rotate the television or radio antenna until the interference stops.

• Move the stylus farther away from the television or radio.

For questions or concerns regarding radio interference please contact Wacom Customer Care.

Is the Bamboo Spark prone to interference from other products?

As with any electronic device, other Bluetooth and Radio Signals may cause interference with the Bamboo Spark. If you experience any interference, try moving to a new location at least 30 feet from your previous location and try again. For questions or concerns please contact Wacom Customer Care.

Can I use my Bamboo Spark outdoors?

We recommend using Bamboo Spark indoors.

Cloud services

How does Inkspace (Wacom Cloud) work?

Inkspace, the Wacom Cloud, is a free cloud storage system provided by Wacom. Once you create and activate your account, your content will be synchronized and securely backed up. With the Wacom Cloud, you can access your content on your tablet, smartphone or PC anywhere, anytime.

Is my data secure in Inkspace (Wacom cloud)?

Wacom Co., Ltd. is committed to maintaining your confidence and trust as it relates to the privacy and security of your information. Please read below and learn how we collect, protect, share and use your information as part of our technology platforms, including, without limitation, our websites, web pages, interactive features and applications.

The Wacom Cloud Privacy Policy is also part of and governed by the TERMS OF USE AGREEMENT FOR WACOM CLOUD. The Policy and the Terms of Use apply to and govern your use of the platforms.

Please review our Privacy Policy here: https://cloud.wacom.com/wc-privacy.html

Can I access Inkspace (Wacom Cloud) from other devices?

Yes, you can access Inkspace from your smartphone, tablet or PC anywhere, anytime. The Wacom Cloud allows you to easily view your content across devices. Go to inkspace.wacom.com to sign up or log in.

Do I need to use Inkspace (Wacom cloud) to use the Bamboo Spark?

No, you can use your Bamboo Spark without a Wacom Cloud account. However, in order to access all of the Bamboo Spark capabilities including the ability to share files across devices, you need to sign up for an Inkspace account (Wacom Cloud).

I have two devices with the Bamboo Spark app. Do I need to access Inkspace to synchronize my notes?

No. Once you log-in to Inkspace from each Bamboo Spark app on the device, the note will be synchronized without accessing Inkspace.

Troubleshooting

I’ve already paired my Bamboo Spark with my device and it transferred my first note, but now it’s not transferring anything. What happened?

Please try re-pairing your Bamboo Spark to your device.

1. Go to the general settings

2. Select Bamboo Spark

3. Select Pair Bamboo Spark

4. The Bamboo Spark app will guide you through the pairing process.

For more information, visit wacom.com/bamboo-spark-start.

If you continue to experience this, go to wacom.com and click on “Support”.

When I sync my notes, they appear upside-down in the Bamboo Spark app. How can I change the orientation in the app for left-handed use?

In the Bamboo Spark app, you can flip the orientation of the device for left-handed use by going to Bamboo Spark settings and selecting ‘device orientation.’ To adjust the orientation, place your finger on the orange dot and turn the image of the device so the notepad is on the left side. You can now use the notepad on the Bamboo Spark on the left side.

I forgot to push the ‘Page’ button and now my pages are overlapping. Can I separate the pages afterwards?

Yes, in the Bamboo Spark app you can use the ‘split’ feature to separate your notes into different pages.

For iOS:

Open the page you want to split. Press the ‘edit’ button then select ‘split.’ Use the time line slider at the bottom of the page to select the point where the note should be separated. Press the ‘split’ button at the top to confirm. When you return to your library you will see that your pages have been split.

For Android:

Open the page you want to split. Press the menu button in the top right-hand corner then select ‘Split Page’. Use the time line slider at the bottom of the page to select the point where the note should be separated. Press the menu button again and select ‘Create Note.’ When you return to your library you will see that your pages have been split.

My notes are separated onto two different pages. Can I combine them?