I had the Hp15c (and still have) but always deeply longed for the hp28s, which was the first to implement a lisp-like programming language in a calculator. Had I bought that one, who knows how different my computing life would have been…
HP re-releases classic computer science calculator: The HP-16C
41–50 of 140 posts
Re: HP re-releases classic computer science calculator: The HP-16C
#42If this uses similar parts as the HP-15C Collector’s Edition in 2023 (which seems likely), then be advised that it doesn’t match the quality of the original in terms of display, key feel, and key labeling (colors). The back side of the 15C CE is also pretty ugly in my opinion [0] compared to the original [1]. [0] https://commerce.hpcalc.org/images/15c-ce-back-medium.jpg [1] https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/comm…
The originals (I still have my 1987 HP-15C) used silicon-on-sapphire technology, normally used for space, that ensured the amazing battery life. The keyboard domes had a complicated fabrication process to ensure optimum feel. The keycaps were double shot for durability. No modern calculator is going to be made to that standard, it would cost at least $1000.
I loved the keyboard on my HP-48G. It had such a nice crisp tactile feel to the key presses - a bit of snap - that I got to where it could usually operate it by touch without looking.
(These days it's stored safely away with batteries removed, so I don't use it that much anymore. For convenience, I usually just use either Droid48 on my phone, or Emacs Calc at my computers.)
Re: HP re-releases classic computer science calculator: The HP-16C
#43I would love a programmers' calculator but I really hate RPN. I wish they would make one without it. Back in the day they did it for efficiency. But that's no longer an issue these days.
I do still have a mint HP48GX but never use it for the same reason. The successor the 49 had normal math as an option but it was not as iconic.
Re: HP re-releases classic computer science calculator: The HP-16C
#44With this and Casio's S100X-JC1-U is there some kind of retro calculator fever?
Re: HP re-releases classic computer science calculator: The HP-16C
#45They are doing this also for the science version, the 15C. I bought a 15C in the 1980s, and have enjoyed it ever since. It is like a rock. Despite being treated roughly over the years, nothing is wrong with it apart from some dents in the metal parts and my name, scratched on the back. I suppose I've replaced the batteries a couple of times, but that's it. This thing just refuses to die. The main thing is that the ke…
They released the 15C before a couple of times.
Re: HP re-releases classic computer science calculator: The HP-16C
#46I'm a lifelong fan of HP calculators. I have a 15c in front of me right now that I've had since the mid-ish 80s. Still works perfectly. But the 15c 'Collector's Edition' had some issues, and I wonder about the build quality and reliability of this new one, too. Plus: my guess is you can get an original working 16c on eBay for less than this is going to cost. Honestly, it pains me to say it but I'd recommend a SwissMi…
From what I’ve seen,
eBay runs more than this for a used original. My collection of all Voyagers ran about $200 each a few years ago.
Re: HP re-releases classic computer science calculator: The HP-16C
#47With this and Casio's S100X-JC1-U is there some kind of retro calculator fever?
That Casio isn’t a retro calculator, it’s a work of art calculator.
Re: HP re-releases classic computer science calculator: The HP-16C
#48I would love a programmers' calculator but I really hate RPN. I wish they would make one without it. Back in the day they did it for efficiency. But that's no longer an issue these days. I do still have a mint HP48GX but never use it for the same reason. The successor the 49 had normal math as an option but it was not as iconic.
They did it for user efficiency, not machine efficiency. And it is still better today for hand calculation.
Re: HP re-releases classic computer science calculator: The HP-16C
#49Gosh I need one so badly. Used ones are up to about 500USD. Pity the international shop is down
hp48 is still on Android for free, as HP released the ROMs to public domain while they were still an awesome company. The unit converter is still very handy. =3
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.ab.x48&hl=...
Re: HP re-releases classic computer science calculator: The HP-16C
#50I would love a programmers' calculator but I really hate RPN. I wish they would make one without it. Back in the day they did it for efficiency. But that's no longer an issue these days. I do still have a mint HP48GX but never use it for the same reason. The successor the 49 had normal math as an option but it was not as iconic.
RPN felt so weird and alien to me, and then one day I felt my brain pivot, and now it's the only method I can bear. RPN isn't just more efficient for the calculator to process. I mean, it is, but that's not the selling point. It's way more efficient to use. It requires the least number of keystrokes necessary to enter a formula, and never requires parentheses for grouping. You can start at the innermost nested, hairy bits of a formula, then quickly work your way outward. That's the part I love and would hate to be without.