Preferred calculator program language

[grsbanks]

The machine I'm going to want to use, and therefore the language involved, depends on what I need to do.

If it's something fairly simple that doesn't require much thought to program then the first machine I'll reach for will be a HP-41C, DM41L or DM42. I can figure out the algorithm in RPN and program the keystrokes easily enough.

If I need a bit more structure then I'll reach for a HP 50g or a Prime. RPL means you have to sit down and think about what you're doing, resulting in less likelihood of an error creeping in. HP-PPL is good for sheer speed (especially on the Prime G2) but don't even think about entering a program directly on the Prime's keyboard. Use the ConnKit and the Virtual Prime to get everything working and transfer the program to a physical Prime to take it out in the field.

If I really need extreme speed then I'll reach straight for my Prime G2 or I'll write whatever I need in C for the TI Voyage 200, TI-92 Plus or TI-84 Plus CE.