Which Graphing Calculator is Best for EE: TI-89 Titanium vs. HP 49g+

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the comparison of two graphing calculators, the TI-89 Titanium and the HP 49g+, specifically in the context of their suitability for electrical engineering (EE) applications. Participants explore features, usability, and personal experiences with both calculators.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants highlight the TI-89 Titanium's built-in computer algebra system (CAS) as a significant advantage.
  • Others mention concerns about the HP 49g+'s keyboard issues, including loud keys and unresponsive buttons.
  • One participant notes that the HP 49g+ has a memory card slot, which could be seen as a benefit over the TI-89.
  • Several users express a strong preference for the TI-89, citing its user-friendly interface and reliable performance.
  • There is a mention of the HP's use of reverse Polish notation, which some argue can be faster once mastered, but may present a learning curve for new users.
  • One participant suggests considering MathCAD for work-related tasks instead of a calculator, indicating that it may provide greater utility.
  • Another participant questions whether postfix notation is the only option for the HP calculators or if there are alternatives like infix or prefix notation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally express a preference for the TI-89 Titanium, but there are competing views regarding the HP 49g+ and its features. The discussion remains unresolved regarding which calculator is definitively better for EE applications, as personal preferences and experiences vary.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention various features and usability aspects of the calculators, but there is no consensus on the overall superiority of one model over the other. The discussion includes subjective experiences and technical specifications that may depend on individual needs and preferences.

abdo375
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I'm thinking of buying a graphing calculator, I think my options are TI-89 Titanium or the HP 49g+, so do u guys know which is better for an EE and if there is any other choices.
Thanks.
 
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I have the TI-89 Titanium. It has lots of features. One of the best feature is a built in computer algebra system (CAS). I've never used the HP 49g+, but upon checking the specs of the HP 49g+, it also looks like a good buy.
 
ranger, first I really want to thank you for your post , but there is something that i must say, can you please reread your post; first you tell me that the ti is good and then you say the hp is a good buy, you only added to my confusion, again thanks for the time you spent for on your post but I just had to comment.
 
I wanted to buy hp 49G+ but I read too many reviews. Everbody complains the hp has keyboard problems, that they don't register and are loud.

So I changed my mind and bought ti-89 which works flawlessly.
 
I love the TI-89. My friend has the HP, and the keys are insanely loud. The only thing the HP has on the TI is that it has a slot for a memory card. However, the TI can connect to a PC via USB.
 
Get the TI. The HP interface with the pc is archaic at best. TI has really made things easy with the USB interface and the current round of TI-Connect software. I've had both the 89 and the HP and I love my 89. The keys were annoying on the HP. I also hated the interface on the HP, I didn't think it was very well thought out. However it was a powerful machine. I'm NOT saying it is more powerful then the 89 however (maybe faster though).

I couldn't recommend the 89 more. It rocks. Although a TI Voyage might be nice too :)
 
Get a slide rule. No batteries.
 
abdo375: Is this for School or for work? If it is for work, I recommend investing the money and time to learn MathCAD. You will get a lot more out of it then what you will get out of any calculator, IMHO.

If it is for School, then I'd go with the TI-89 as it is easy to use. The pretty print helps out a lot to track input errors such as misplaced parentheses. The HP line of calculators use reserve polish notation. Once learned, you can use it faster then someone using a TI-89 because you won't have to use parentheses. So there is that to consider.
 
Yep I'd have to say the TI-89. I have the regular 89, but I did use the Titanium for a while (they're basically the same, just look different and the Titanium has more memory). I absolutely couldn't be happier with my TI. I love it. :)
 
  • #10
Shadrack said:
abdo375: Is this for School or for work? If it is for work, I recommend investing the money and time to learn MathCAD. You will get a lot more out of it then what you will get out of any calculator, IMHO.

If it is for School, then I'd go with the TI-89 as it is easy to use. The pretty print helps out a lot to track input errors such as misplaced parentheses. The HP line of calculators use reserve polish notation. Once learned, you can use it faster then someone using a TI-89 because you won't have to use parentheses. So there is that to consider.
Is postfix the only notation or do you have a choice between that and infix (maybe prefix as well?)
 

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