Texas Instruments TI-30X IIS 2-Line Scientific Calculator Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)Main Points:
I used this calculator for over 10 years before it finally stopped working, and I treated it fairly roughly (e.g.,coffe spills). I think others here have attested to the functionality of the TI-30, so I just want to emphasize that it's a tough little gadget as well. Yes, the buttons are on the small side and there is a bit of play, but this was never a major problem (although at times it slows down data entry). You can go to http://education.ti.com/downloads for a good overview of TI calculators, and you can scope out one of TI's major competitors at http://www.casio.com.
A Little History:
This was also one of the first commercially available low-priced calculators that had two-line display and backspace to correct or edit data entry. The dual-power and scrolling display features were also once unusual. The top line (for data entry) shows up to 11 characters; you can scroll backwards or forwards up to 88! The bottom line (shows results) displays up to a 10-digit answer along with a 2-digit exponent.
Individual Needs Differ:
From the reviews here, it appears that high school math is now more difficult than it once was. If you know that you're going to need graphing capability, then obviously this is not the choice for you. Similarly, the prevalence of laptop computers and math/stats software may obviate the need for some of the more advanced features.
Recommendation:
The layout is very good and, for such a low price, it packs a lot of calculating might. However, high school (or college)students may want to narrow their choices and then ask their teacher which one has the most relevant functions for the next few years of math. Compared to twenty-five or so years ago, one can now get a lot more calculator for the money. Depending on your budget, therefore, you might determine that a calculator like this is sufficient for your short-term needs, but that you'll need a new one if you go on to more advanced stats and math. In any event, this is a durable calculator that works very well.

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New 2-line display.Dual power:solor and battery.View entry abd results at the same time.Edit current entry.Edit and view previous entries.Menus with functions and mode settings.Five variable memories.One and two variable statistics, results, for linear tegression, trendline.Fractions and fraction/decimal conversions.Trigonometric functions in degrees and radians.

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Casio CFX-9850GC Plus Graphing Calculator (White) Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I am a math teacher at a new private Bronx high school, and compared the TI-83 with the Casio in numerous regards before deciding which one our school would use. Hands down, the Casio wins, and it is cheaper as well. Note - I do not work for Casio or TI.
A) The calculator is more user friendly. The options are menu driven in a more intuitive way. What took me a minute or two to locate and figure out out the TI, took less than half the time on the Casio. Don't trust me- see for yourself.
B) The Casio is slightly faster than the TI
C)Features: The casio adds a dynamic graphing system (lets you change a coefficient and watch the graph change), which is very useful when teaching. I also like the EQUA feature, which lets my students calculate 2/3 equations, 2/3 unknowns, and solve quadratic or polynomial equations. Maybe the TI does this too, but I couln't figure it out.
D) The color thing I suppose is nice, but I use the CFX-9750, which is black and white and cheaper.
The only downside is that most colleges use the TI's, unfortunately. I liken it to most places using Microsoft when there are better alternatives out there (monopoly power). Anyway, a student who uses the Casio can do anything the TI-83 can do.
I'm a big fan, and my students seem to like it.


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For students in any field, but especially math and sciences, the Casio CFX-9850GC PLUS graphing calculator is a problem-solving tool with over 900 features for storing, graphing, and analysis. You can execute evaluation tables on a split screen (which allows you to trace the graph and scroll table values simultaneously) to display graphs and tables. With a long list of features, you can master list-based, one- and two-variable statistical calculations, a variety of regressions, statistics, hypothesis testing, and advanced financial calculations.
The large, readable display exhibits eight lines and 21 characters (15-digit, 10-plus-2 display) in three colors. Graphing functions include rectangular and polar coordinates, parametric, inequality, and vertical lines. Since graphing is animated, you can change the variables in a formula and watch the graph move accordingly.
It also performs statistical calculations such as scatter plots, histograms, box and whisker plots, and eight regression types. The dual screen shows two graphs: a graph and zoom or a graph and table on the same display. In statistical graphing you can use list-based matrix calculations of up to 26 matrices. The list editor manages up to 36 data lists and exchanges data with matrix and table modes. An instant-replay key recalls your previous entries.
The built-in communications port enables linkup to a personal computer. The CFX-9850GC PLUS stores up to 38 programs with 32 KB total memory. It is protected by a hard slide case and powered by four AAA alkaline batteries and a lithium battery for backup to preserve a constant memory even when the unit is turned off.
The Casio CFX-9850GC PLUS comes with a comprehensive guidebook and is supported by a one-year limited warranty. --Barbara Price

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