The HP 50g Graphing Calculator is a great improvement of the much-criticized previous models, HP 49g or HP 49g+.
With this model, not only has HP fixed the keyboard bounce issue of HP 49g, it retains many of the good features such as SD card slot (up to 2GB), 2.5 MB total memory (512 KB, 2 MB Flash ROM), USB connectivity and with an additional asynchronous serial port.
In terms of appearance, the HP 50g returns to a more traditional HP calculator look. Using dark black plastic for the entire body, white, orange and yellow for function shift keys appear to be very exquisite.
While the previous model runs on 3 AAA cells, this one needs 4 of them.
For the users of HP48GX, HP 49g or other previous models, you find it quite easy to become familiar with the HP 50g especially knowing how the efficient RPN (Reverse Polish Notation) works.
Large Equation Libraries and complex computation handling
As a graphing calculator, it is nothing new to many that the HP 50g supports almost any complex algebras, graphing features (2-D function, polar, and parametric plot, as well as 3-D, differential equation, and bar plot), finance math equations, unit conversions, engineering equations and etc. with pretty fast processing if you compare it with other calculators.
With the large equation library, previously found in the 48G series and over 2,300 built-in functions make this calculator truly ideal for math, science, engineering professional and college students.
However, with greater functionality, the user will have a steeper learning curve to make full use of the functions, but it is worth the effort.
Efficient RPN (Reverse Polish Notation) and algebraic data entry
HP 50g comes with both RPN and algebraic (default mode) data entry. Most loyal HP users know that RPN is far superior to the later. For example, it requires fewer keystrokes, eliminates thinking of “closing brackets” all the time and etc.
The advice is to spend some time (anyone should be able to do with only a few days) to learn the RPN logic. It may seem troublesome at first, but, it ends up making more sense in the long run and is faster and more efficient than algebraic. Frankly, you need to master RPN to unlock the true potential of this calculator.
Are there any drawbacks
Well, nothing is perfect in this world. And the same goes for the HP 50g, the layout of this model is a bit different than the previous ones. The obvious change would be the ENTER key has been re-sized to a smaller button and moved from middle left to right bottom. If you are used to the old keyboard layout which is consider to be better according to most of the existing customer, then there is a little adjustment and adaption here.
The other much commented subject is the poor quality of manual. According to an advanced user, although it comes with the 50-page “Quick Start Guide” and a more advanced user guide in a PDF format, but they have not had many examples on programming or higher functions. Fortunately, things are easy to find with Google nowadays.
Those who prefer hard copy manual had also voiced their dissatisfaction that the advanced user guide only shipped in soft copy. The trouble of having a PC to read the manual, and using the HP-50g at the same time, just do not appear to be something right for them. If that is the case, print out only the chapters you wish to learn is something can be done to make the learning process easier.
What’s in the box
50G graphing calculator supplied with batteries, user’s manual (50-page Quick Start Guide), CD (with connectivity software and advanced user’s guide), USB cable, and premium pouch (leather case).
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- Read what existing customers said about this model.
- You can download many applications and guides of HP calculators from www.hpcalc.org.
- The HP 50g Graphing Calculator manuals.
Pros
- It runs on a ARM processor similar to the speeds on low-end pocket PCs. Graphs and algebraic operations are processed very quickly.
- It has an infrared port and a SD expansion card (up to 2GB), so it has no realistic memory limits.
- The HP 50g eliminates the keyboard issues of the 49G+. The keys are firm but responsive.
- The infrared transmitter and SD card capability is compatible with the older version, HP 49g+.
- It also has a better look and feel than HP 49G+.
- There is a lot of additional software for HP 50g on www.hpcalc.org.
- HP includes the equation library from the HP 48g series for the HP 50g. It has also 2300+ built-in functions and built-in equation writer.
- It is cheaper than the TI-89 and supports RPN entry mode.
- The leather case is really nice.
Cons
- Screen is a little smaller than TI-89
- It supplies the hard copy of basic manual. The advanced user guide is in software copy stored in a CD
- The manuals lack of information on the programming.
- Different key layout compares to previous models.
