Real Calc vs Emulator - My Experience

[Peet]

I do most calculations directly on the PC. In addition to math software and spreadsheets, a good little RPN calculator is almost indispensable for me here; the v41 currently fulfills this function. But I also always have a real pocket calculator (currently an HP-35S) on my desk, as it happens every now and then, that I have to do some quick calculations after I've just shut down the PC. Since this is mostly just about simple arithmetic, almost every RPN calculator fulfills this task for me, the HP-35S could just as much be done by an HP-12C or the Prime.

For "playing around" e.g. with "historical" program collections, I prefer emulators, my real HP48G is usually equipped with a finished configuration from the emu48.

For me, physical pocket calculators fulfill two functions 1. They are quickly accessible, 2. They are collectibles / play items similar to wristwatches - which no longer serve any real practical purpose, but are still fun as personal rewards, memories or jewelry. It's also quite simply more fun to play an old calculator-game on a real calculator than just on an emulator.

Unfortunately, no actual pocket calculator meets the haptic and qualitative requirements that I place on a high-quality watch, for example. Modern calculators are Swatch or Casio instead of Omega or Rolex. The 35S, 12C Platinum or Prime are OK, but don't feel as high-quality as an HP-41 or HP-11C from 1982.