Is the HP-12C the Most Expensive RPN Calculator?

  • Thread starter Thread starter ffleming7
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Notation Reverse
Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the pricing and availability of RPN (Reverse Polish Notation) calculators, specifically the HP-12C and other models. Participants explore the reasons behind the HP-12C's cost, compare it to other calculators, and inquire about affordable alternatives.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether HP is the only manufacturer of RPN calculators and expresses curiosity about the high price of the HP-12C.
  • Another participant suggests that the HP-12C is considered pricey due to its compact size and ease of use for RPN enthusiasts, mentioning a comparable model, the HP-15C.
  • A later reply confirms the existence of the HP-15C but notes its discontinuation, expressing a desire for an affordable RPN calculator.
  • One participant mentions finding the HP-12C listed for under $100, arguing it is not expensive for a high-capability calculator.
  • Another participant introduces the HP10b as a financial calculator that uses RPN, available for around $40, but notes shipping limitations.
  • The HP33s is mentioned as another model that can switch to RPN.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the pricing of the HP-12C, with some considering it expensive while others argue it is reasonably priced for its capabilities. There is no consensus on the availability of affordable RPN calculators.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference specific models and their features, but there are limitations regarding the availability and shipping of certain calculators, as well as the potential for outdated information about discontinued models.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals interested in RPN calculators, particularly those seeking affordable options or comparing different models.

ffleming7
Messages
25
Reaction score
0
Is HP the only company that sells calculators with RPN?
Why is the HP-12C so expensive? It doesn't look expensive.
I was wondering if it was possible to get a small pocket calculator that used RPN that wasn't too expensive?
 
Computer science news on Phys.org
The 12C is pricey because it is small and easy to use if you like RPN. There was also a comparable scientific (not financial) version of this calculator that was just as compact and was very handy. I think it was the 15C, but don't hold me to that. It's been about 20 years.
 
It was the 15C, but they don't make these anymore, and that was why I was wondering if I could still get a relatively cheap RPN calculator. I have recently learned about RPN and the HP-15C on the Cosmic Variance blog. RPN sounded amazing and so did the HP-15C, and now I want an RPN calculator.
 
I see the 12C listed for less then $100, for a high capability calculator that is not expensive.

There is a HP10b financial, which should be RPN, for ~$40. This can only be shipped in the US, so that may be a problem for you.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
9K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
17K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
8K
Replies
9
Views
9K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
10K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
18K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
7K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 30 ·
2
Replies
30
Views
3K
  • · Replies 16 ·
Replies
16
Views
33K