Calculators Vector capable calculator recommendations?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on recommendations for vector-capable calculators for a vector analysis course. Users suggest that while calculators like the TI-83 can handle basic vector operations such as dot products and cross products through matrix manipulation, reliance on advanced calculators may not be necessary. The HP 50g is mentioned as a potential option, but many participants advocate for using simpler scientific calculators or manual calculations for efficiency. Overall, the consensus is that for basic vector operations, existing tools like the TI-83 suffice.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of vector calculus concepts
  • Familiarity with the TI-83 calculator functions
  • Basic knowledge of matrix operations
  • Awareness of programming capabilities in calculators
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the capabilities of the HP 50g calculator for vector analysis
  • Explore programming options on the TI-83 for custom vector operations
  • Learn about MATLAB and Mathematica for advanced vector calculus applications
  • Investigate the differences between scientific and graphing calculators for vector operations
USEFUL FOR

Students in vector analysis courses, educators teaching calculus, and anyone seeking efficient methods for performing vector calculations.

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I'm taking a vector analysis course this semester and would like a vector capable calculator.

For calculus I have been using a TI-83.

Any recommendations? Price not an issue, but as always its better to get the job done for less.

Thanks!
 
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I've never come across a calculator that can do vector analysis on it's own..
I think vector calculus is the point where you need to start backing away from calculators and rely on pen on paper manipulation or mammoths like MATLAB and mathematica.

I could be wrong though
 
Just quick dot products and vector addition and the like to cut down the time on working problems and reducing possibility for careless errors.
 
If you're just doing stuff like that I'm pretty sure it would be quicker doing it by hand or doing each operation individually on a standard calculator than typing two whole vectors into a calculator.
 
A wonder they make them at all...



Does anyone have recommendations for a vector capable calculator?
 
There's no reason to use a calculator for a lot of that stuff, except for like 4 function and trig stuff. Honestly, A scientific calculator is all you really need. Graphing is nice, has a bunch of cool stuffs, but not necessary.
 
Just use your TI-83. Dot products and cross products can both be expressed by matrices, which is included in the TI-83. Alternatively, you can write a program that just spits out your desired numbers.
 
HP 50g
 

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