HP50g or TI-89 Titanium: Which Calculator is Best for Calculus II?

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  • Thread starter Thread starter Robert Pinney
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    Ti-89 Titanium
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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the choice between the HP50g and the TI-89 Titanium calculators for use in Calculus II, with considerations for future engineering studies and general math coursework.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that the HP50g is a better choice for those pursuing engineering, citing it as a "safe pick."
  • Others mention that for students only taking math courses casually, any regular calculator would suffice.
  • One participant lists their personal preference for calculators, ranking the HP50G first, followed by the Casio 9860GII and the TI89.
  • A participant emphasizes the importance of learning RPN syntax to fully utilize the capabilities of the HP50G.
  • A freshman in high school expresses their intention to take more math classes, implying a need for a suitable calculator.
  • One participant references previous discussions on the topic in another forum, suggesting that older threads may provide additional insights.
  • Another participant expresses a desire for new ideas beyond what has already been discussed in previous threads.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants have differing opinions on which calculator is superior, with no consensus reached on the best choice for Calculus II or future studies.

Contextual Notes

Participants' recommendations may depend on individual academic paths and preferences, and there are references to previous discussions that may contain additional viewpoints.

Robert Pinney
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I am currently in Calculus II and would like to know which calculator to get. I have read good arguments for both and am leaning towards the HP.
 
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If you are going to go further into engineering then go with HP its the safe pick. If you're just simply taking math courses for the hell of it then any regular calculator would do.

My personal choice would be.

1. HP50G

2. Casio 9860GII

3. TI89.
 
Duckrice44 said:
If you are going to go further into engineering then go with HP its the safe pick. If you're just simply taking math courses for the hell of it then any regular calculator would do.

My personal choice would be.

1. HP50G

2. Casio 9860GII

3. TI89.

I would like to add that if you choose the HP 50G, take the time to learn RPN syntax -- that's where you will REALLY see the power of the HP 50G.
 
I'm a freshman in high-school, so I'll be taking a lot more math classes.
 
There are some threads about the HP 50g versus the TI-89 in the "Computing & Technology" forum, to which this thread has been moved. You might want to check out the older threads here.

Here's a long-running thread:

https://www.physicsforums.com/showthread.php?t=133304
 
I've seen those and would like new ideas from other people.
 

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