Graphing Calculators Mini–Review

By Pamela Stevens

Math classes beyond Algebra may require a graphing calculator. These types of calculators can be time and grade saving assistants in Geometry, Trigonometry, Physics, Chemistry, Statistics and Calculus classes.

Nearly all graphing calculators can plot graphs, perform basic math and trigonometry functions, solve equations, work with matrices, contain log functions and so on. We looked at four popular products that are appropriate for classroom use in the $70 to $100 price range. Products priced lower than this range do not offer as many features and those over $100 perform beyond what most students need.

Beyond the basic features, they all do different things or offer special features, such as:

Sharp EL-9900C

This product has an LCD screen, the ability to split screens, perform multiple slide shows, and has a two–sided reversible keypad that provides more advanced functions as the student progresses.

Its equation solver has 99 stored equations including Algebraic, Newton and graphic solutions and it can build matrices up to 99 columns by 99 rows.

It comes with batteries and a hard case.

Texas Instruments TI–73

This one has the option of being purchased with a 128 KB Flash ROM for extended memory. It is keystroke–for–keystroke compatible with the TI–84 Plus family. It has upgradeable operating system and software.

Casio CFX-9850GC Plus

This product has color display with color shading, tracing and coding and over 900 preset functions included. It has battery–powered back up, automatic shut off and comes with a hard case. Unlike the others, it has NTSC Calculator–to–Television interface for classroom instruction

Hewlett Packard HP 39g+

This product provides the most amount of memory without add–ons at 200 KB of user memory and 256 KB of total memory. It can communicate with PCs and other HP 39g calculators. This product enables students to create their own applications or access built in electronic lessons. It has over 600 preset functions.

Comparison Chart

Pruct Title	EL–9900C	TI–73	CFX–9850GC Plus	HP 39g+
Manufacturer	Sharp	Texas Instruments	Casio	Hewlett Packard
Product's HomePage	HomePage	HomePage	HomePage	HomePage
Price	$69.99	$99.99	$79.99	$79.99
Memory (KB)	64	24 RAM	64 Total	200
Display Size (Pixels)	132X64	64X96	about 132X64	131X64
PC Link	YES	NO	YES	YES
Purchase

Overall, for the price the HP calculator is a good choice, it provides a large amount of memory, users can create their own applications and is a good choice for “techie” types.

However, the Casio has color display and more preset functions than the HP. Students that like color and have no interest in writing their own applications or “artsy” types may want to consider the Casio.

Additionally, since the TI series has been so popular, some classes offer instruction in or integrate Texas products into their curriculum, which should be inquired about before purchase.

©2003 – 2008 TopTenREVIEWS, Inc.