I'm in love

[bxparks]

(01-28-2024 05:03 AM)richmit Wrote:  So I needed a pocketable scientific calculator, and the HP-42S became my constant companion. I love that calculator, but sometimes it frustrates me because so much of it's functionality is hidden in menus.

I'm curious, can you expand on which functions you found difficult to access on the 42S versus the 15C? For complex numbers that you mention, I find the 42S easier because it has a 2-line display, and the complex number is displayed on a single line, instead of being split into Re and Im parts. I think most functions that operate on complex numbers are accessible using a button the 42S.

The problem I have with the 15C is that I don't use the 15C often enough to remember all the shortcuts, flags, and magic incantations needed access some features. A soft menu system seems easier on my brain, especially since I cycle through many different brands and types of calculators. I also find the single-line display of the 15C limiting. Maybe I've been spoiled by smartphones and the large displays on modern calculators. There are also critical features (for me) missing on the 15C, like bitwise BASE operations. The 42S has enough BASE functions for emergencies, but even that can be too limited in some cases compared to the 16C.