Plus42 algebraic expressions update

[Vincent Weber]

(03-06-2021 07:10 PM)BruceH Wrote:  

(03-05-2021 12:37 AM)Vincent Weber Wrote:  Hi Thomas,
Cool !
Btw I think I found a non-disruptive way of entering one-step complex numbers, à la 35S, like I mentioned before.
While in number entry mode, there are two keys that are forbidden to type twice in a row: "." and "E". So on the second keypress, "." could be changed to "i" and "E" to "theta", thus allowing complex entry without altering 42S normal behaviour, nor changing the skin. This also could be used in equation mode, to solve complex values (and allowing complex equation variables) symbolically when possible, as discussed earlier.

What do you think ?

Cheers

On the HP32SII pressing 1..2 enters 1/2. What if we ever wanted to introduce a fraction mode? ;-)

I have been thinking about this again, and I think there is a simple way to allow both 35S-style complex entry and fraction mode: dedicate the "." key to fraction mode. Use only "E" for complex entry with the following mecanism: one press is normal "E". Two presses changes "E" to "i" or "theta", depending on the current RECT/POLAR mode (seems logical to have less keypresses for the current mode). Three presses toggles "i" and "theta", for the cases where you have to enter a complex number in the other form than the current mode.
Simple, non-disruptive of the 42S operations, and "." Is free for a potential (useless IMHO, but some may want it) fraction mode