Graphing complex functions can be time-consuming on the TI-89 calculator, leading users to seek alternatives on PC. Gnuplot is recommended as a free and user-friendly option for plotting both 2D and 3D functions, as well as data. While Excel is another potential tool, users may encounter difficulties in finding a straightforward installation file for Windows. Maxima is also mentioned, but it lacks an option for graphing polar equations, limiting its functionality for some users. For Windows users, downloading the Gnuplot gp43win32.zip package is suggested for an efficient graphing solution.