The PAL DPB-7001 and the NTSC DPB-7000, were literally just digital paint machines, with stencils/layers introduced nine months later, and font and text functions implemented by Pepper Howard in 1983.

Combining the latest hardware, custom software which had solved usable digital paint issues and an artist-friendly familiar way of creating artwork that required no computer knowledge meant that the Paintbox was an instant success.

The second generation V-Series Paintbox was released in 1989[5] as a modernized and more compact and affordable model;[6] with internal hardware improvements, better tablet, upgraded keyboard and a cordless stylus.

In the late 1980s, Quantel filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Spaceward Graphics for creating the Matisse system, which was marketed as a cheaper version of the Paintbox.

Despite becoming the industry standard TV graphics and post production computer with hundreds sold around the world, Quantel lost all its market share against cheaper systems and software.

Graphic Paintbox was used to create the posters for The Silence of the Lambs, JFK, The Doors, and record covers for Nirvana's Nevermind, and the Beastie Boys' Paul's Boutique.

Artists and filmmakers using the workshop included Richard Morrison,[16] Jeff Keen, Robert Cahen, Tamara Krikorian, Pictorial Heroes, Judith Goddard and many others.