Slashdot Mirror


Ask Slashdot: Cheap Second Calculators For Tests?

Rich0 writes "I own an HP 48 calculator that I'm quite content with, but soon I'll need to take a certification exam where this calculator will not be welcome. I'm sure this is a common problem for those who own higher-end calculators. Sure, I could just buy a random $15 calculator with a few trig functions, but I was wondering who makes the best moderately-priced calculators for somebody who already has and appreciates a programmable calculator and just needs something simple. Bonus points if the calculator can handle polar vector arithmetic and unit conversions, but it has to be simple enough that virtually any exam would accept its use."

2 of 328 comments (clear)

  1. Calculator by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Informative

    I believe the TI-36X Pro would probably do what you are looking for. It is approved for use on Professional Engineer tests, from what I have read.

    1. Re:Calculator by skutterbob · · Score: 5, Informative

      I have a ti-36 solar... if you're taking the PE exam check the NECEES website,http://ncees.org/exams/calculator-policy/ that is the definitive site for what is allowed. Get the calculator a few weeks ahead of time if possible take a short practice exam with it... since you "know" your normal calc. (which btw is not allowed) Heck have a spare anyway... I had 2. shit happens Engineers Prepare for anything ;)