| HP
codename, series |
Monte Carlo, Pioneer |
| Type,
Precision, Input mode |
Scientific, 12 BCD digits,
exponent ±499, Algebraic |
| Programmable |
Yes, keystrokes, symbolic labels 0-9, A-Z. |
| Performance Index |
|
| Memory |
10 data registers (0-9), 99
program steps, permanent memory |
| Dispay |
12 digit 7-segment LCD plus sign |
| Special
features |
Probability functions, extended
statistics, 6 built-in applications
that can be loaded into program memory using the LOAD key: A: One
sample
test statistics, B: Two sample test statistics, C: Linear regression
test
statistics, D: Chi-square test statistic, E: Binominal probability
distribution,
F: Time value of money. |
| Original
Pricing, Production |
3.1.1989 ($49.95) - approx. 1992 |
| Batteries |
3x small button sized cells |
| Dimensions |
Length 14.7cm, Width 7.8cm,
Height 1.5cm |
| Links |
|
| Comment |
In principle a very powerful
machine - but the lack of the RPN entry
mode really makes things unintuitve. For example the big INPUT key: On
RPN machines this would be the prominent ENTER key but here it doesn't
have much functionality. It is only used to separate inputs for certain
functions that require two arguments, like permutation and
combinations.
So you ask why addition or substraction would not be a function of two
arguments? Well, right here the confusion begins! I tried "2 INPUT 3 +"
but the result was not what I had hoped for.
The same applies to the other algebraic models: HP-10B,
HP-18C,
HP-19BII,
HP-20S
and HP-27S. The HP-30S
is different in a sense that it was originally designed as an
algebraic-entry
model and didn't have to reuse the typical RPN style keyboard layout
with
the big ENTER key. The HP-17BII
and HP-49G are different as well
because
they offer both RPN and algebraic mode.
Interestingly, the algebraic models were introduced only in
the later
1980s with the HP-18C in 1986
being
probably the first one. Also, half of these calculators are
business/financial
type models: The HP-10B, HP-18C,
HP-19BII,
and to some extent the
HP-27S. A number
of developments probably influenced this decision:
-
Scientist were not using handheld calculators any more but rather the
much
more powerful PCs and laptops.
-
Business people never liked (or understood?) RPN.
-
Handheld calculator sales declined in general due to more widespread
use
of PCs/laptops. To open a new market students and highschool kids had
to
be targeted with cheap and algebraic models (ie. HP-20S,
HP-21S, HP-30S).
|
