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HP re-releases classic computer science calculator: The HP-16C

hpcalcs.com

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Re: HP re-releases classic computer science calculator: The HP-16C

#91

They 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…

I somehow got my 15C's slip case wet and so the calculator sticks out the end a wee bit. And a couple of the rubber feel fell off and got lost. Other than that, it works perfectly despite being treatly roughly as well. Like yours, the keys are still in Day 1 condition. And like yours, I've changed the batteries maybe two or three times since I got it back around 1984, which is unfathomable to me.

It is probably the finest piece of electronics I've ever owned.

Re: HP re-releases classic computer science calculator: The HP-16C

#92
What's going on with tech companies now releasing "limited editions" or "limited runs" of a calculator? I find that a hit ridiculous. Not long ago there was a post on a japanese made Casio laccquered calculator that costs a fortune. Have people started to collect calculators?

Re: HP re-releases classic computer science calculator: The HP-16C

#96

Earlier quoted context omitted.

The prices for all kinds of vintage electronics have shot out like crazy. Calculators, computers, cameras and other stuff are super expensive.

I wonder if anyone wants my old red LED HP calculator... it's got some nice chunky buttons. HP-35 or something, ehhh. Looks like maybe $100.

I may actually be interested

Re: HP re-releases classic computer science calculator: The HP-16C

#97
post #28

Earlier quoted context omitted.

I’d pay that much, but alas.

They can be found on ebay.

I have two originals, which is why I could make the comparison, but they are not in pristine condition like a new one would be.

Re: HP re-releases classic computer science calculator: The HP-16C

#98

What's going on with tech companies now releasing "limited editions" or "limited runs" of a calculator? I find that a hit ridiculous. Not long ago there was a post on a japanese made Casio laccquered calculator that costs a fortune. Have people started to collect calculators?

Not quite: people never stopped collecting calculators.

There’s a difference between this and the Casio though. It’s a pretty, limited edition display piece. These are genuinely useful computation devices, for people who like using physical keys to solve problems more complex than a basic calculator could handle. There probably aren’t that many cases where someone needs to use a physical HP calculator anymore, yet some people just enjoy using them anyway.

The kinds of people who’d want to use a re-issued HP probably wouldn’t be too interested in that Casio, and vice versa.

Re: HP re-releases classic computer science calculator: The HP-16C

#99
post #24

I have one of the originals. It's useful if you do low-level programming a lot, and in a pinch you can also use it as a standard calculator. The biggest limitation is that the screen can only show 8 digits. In binary mode, this can be awkward if you're working with variables that are more than 8 bits. The calculator has functionality for scrolling around the number that's being displayed to try to work around this, b…

What would you use it for? I’ve done plenty of 16 bit hex math back in the day so I can see some level of handiness there, but never quite got what it was meant for, or why someone would want a physical device for it. However, I’d love to hear more!

Re: HP re-releases classic computer science calculator: The HP-16C

#100

I 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.

It's simply not for you then. That's okay.

I'm the opposite. I can't use a non-RPN calculator. Getting the numbers out of my head and onto the stack is how I achieve clarity in what I'm doing.

I used the 49 in high school until I wore out the substandard keyboard. Then I did what I should have in the first place and bought a 48GX which I still have 20+ years later.

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