MHB Which graphing calculator to purchase

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the selection of graphing calculators, with a focus on the Texas Instruments Nspire CX CAS and the HP 50g. Participants express a preference for Texas Instruments models, particularly the TI-85 and TI-86, despite their discontinuation. The conversation highlights the superiority of Mathematica for complex calculations compared to CAS calculators, while also mentioning the HP 15c and 12c for specific use cases in scientific and financial calculations. Users are also exploring Mathematica for Students 8: Standard Edition as a powerful alternative to traditional graphing calculators.

PREREQUISITES
  • Familiarity with graphing calculator functionalities
  • Understanding of RPN (Reverse Polish Notation) versus Algebraic calculation
  • Knowledge of Mathematica software capabilities
  • Basic concepts of scientific and engineering calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the features of the Texas Instruments Nspire CX CAS
  • Compare the HP 50g with other graphing calculators
  • Explore Mathematica for Students 8: Standard Edition and its pricing options
  • Look for coupon codes or discounts for Mathematica software
USEFUL FOR

Students, educators, and professionals in engineering and science fields who are considering purchasing a graphing calculator or exploring software alternatives like Mathematica.

hatelove
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I'm considering buying a graphing calculator. Which one is good? Is the Texas Instruments Nspire CX CAS the best one on the market right now? I'm also looking at the HP 50g but I'm not bound to RPN so I'm fine with Algebraic calculation.
 
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If you are in secondary school use whatever is recommended.
 
My favorite is the TI-85 or TI-86; however, those are not made any more, so you'd have to get them used. In my opinion, TI has never made a better calculator, especially for engineering and science. I'm not a fan of CAS models of calculators: anything they can do Mathematica can do better, especially with a faster processor. I want my calculator to do relatively simple numerics quickly.
 
I own an HP 15c for everyday calculations, and if I go into finance I might purchase a 12c for that purpose, but I find the 15c very nice for scientific/engineering purposes. I'm not tied down to RPN though, so it doesn't really matter to me.

I am considering the Mathematica for Students 8: Standard Edition. For the cost of a cutting-edge graphing calculator this seems more powerful, but I'm first trying to find out more information about what I get for the price. Does anyone have any coupon codes for this?
 

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