Today I received a Casio fx-991 EX Classwiz which I purchased last week. Here is a short video of both an unboxing and a demo. I plan to a more detailed review pretty soon.
Eddie
Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Tuesday, October 27, 2015
Casio fx-3650p: Programming - The Sequel
Casio fx-3650p: Programming - The Sequel
Time to revisit the Casio fx-3650p. Since the last time I did this, Casio released an updated fx-3650p. I still have the older version. And still, the fx-3650p is not sold in the United States (sigh).
Since the language of the fx-3650p is similar to the Casio graphing calculators and fx-5800p (in fact it is simplified, you can adopt and port these programs.)
Access to the first set of fx-3650P programs:
Contents for this blog:
1. Combination with Replacement
2. Great Circle (Distance in km)
3. Orbital Speed and Period
4. Eccentricity and Area of an Ellipse
5. Super Factorial
6. Escape Velocity
7. Finance: Payment of a Monthly Mortgage
8. Wind Chill Factor
9. Speed of Sound in Dry Air
Combination with Replacement
Formula: nCr(A + B - 1, B)
Program: (17 steps)
? → A : ? → B :
(A + B - 1) [nCr] B
Example:
A = 17, B = 8, Result: 735,471
A = 52, B = 5, Result: 3,819,816
Great Circle (Distance in km)
Input:
A = latitude 1 (North is positive), B = longitude 1 (East is positive)
C = latitude 2, D = longitude 2
Program: (49 steps)
? → A : ? → B : ? → C : ? → D :
cos⁻¹ ( sin A sin C + cos A cos C cos (B - D → Y :
Y * 6371 * π ÷ 180 → Y
Example: Los Angels to Rome
Los Angeles: Lat 34°03' N, Long 118°15' W (enter as negative)
Rome: Lat 41°54' N, Long 12°30' E
Result: (approx) 10,189.94397 km
Orbital Speed and Period
Input:
A = Mass 1 (kg), B = Mass 2 (kg), D = Distance (m)
Output:
X = Orbital Speed (m/s), Y = Time for One Orbit to complete (in years)
Program: (61 steps)
? → A : ? → B : ? → D : 6.67384E-11 ( A + B → C :
√ ( C ÷ D → X ◢ 2 π √ ( D³ ÷ C → Y : Y ÷ 315576000 → Y
Example:
Sun: 1.989E30 kg (A)
Earth: 5.927E24 kg (B)
Avg. distance between Sun and Earth: 1.496E11 m (D)
Results:
Orbital Speed (Earth around Sun): 29787.91714 m/s (X)
Orbital Period: 0.999924841 yrs (Y)
Eccentricity and Area of an Ellipse
Ellipse with semi-axis lengths A and B, assuming that A ≤ B.
Program: (25 steps)
? → A : ? → B :
√ ( 1 - A² ÷ B² → C ◢ π A B → D
Example:
A = 5, B = 10
Results:
Eccentricity: 0.866025403 (C)
Area: 157.0796327 (D)
Super Factorial
Formula: spf(n) = product(X!, X, 1, n)
For the Casio, n is an integer where 1 ≤ n ≤ 16
Source for formula:
Martin, Ángel M. Sandmath_44: Math Extensions for the HP 41. Rev 44_E. 2012
Program: (35 steps)
? → A : 1 → Y : 1 → M : Lbl 0 :
? → A : 1 → Y : 1 → M : Lbl 0 :
M! * Y → Y : 1 M+ : A > M - 1 ⇒ Goto 0 : Y
Examples:
spf(1) = 1
spf(2) = 2
spf(3) = 12
spf(4) = 288
Escape Velocity
Input:
A = mass (kg), D = radius (m)
Output:
Escape velocity in m/s
Program: (27 Steps)
? → A : ? → D :
√ ( 2 * 6.67384E-11 * A ÷ D
Example:
A = 5.927E24 kg (mass of Earth)
D = 6.371E3 m (radius of Earth)
Result: 11,143.37008 m/s
Finance: Payment of a Monthly Mortgage
Input:
A = Loan Amount
C = Annual Interest Rate
D = Number of payments
Output:
B = Monthly Payment
End of month payments are assumed. No balloon amounts are assumed. The program is set up to mimic behavior on most financial calculators (negative for outflows, positive for inflows).
Program: (40 Steps)
? → A : ? → C : ? → D : C ÷ 1200 → X :
- A * X ÷ ( 1 - ( 1 + X ) ^ -D ) → B
Example:
A = 400,000
C = 5%
D = 360
Result:
B = -2,147.286491 (payment of 2,147.29 per month)
Wind Chill Factor (US Units)
Source for formula:
Glover, Thomas J. Pocket Ref. 4th Edition. Sequoia Publishing Inc. Littleton, CO. 2012
Input:
A = temperature in °F
B = speed of the wind in mph
Output:
C = Wind Chill in °F
Program: (47 steps)
? → A : ? → B : 35.74 + .6215 A
- 35.75 B^.16 + .4275 * A * B^.16 → C
Example:
A = 45°F
B = 15 mph
Result:
C = 38.23993448 °F
Speed of Sound in Dry Air
C = √ ( γ R (T + 273.15))
γ = 1.4 (ratio of specific heat of dry air)
R = 286.9 J/(kg K) (Individual Gas Constant)
T = temperature in °C
Sources:
"Speed of Sound" NASA. Glenn Research Center.
Retrieved October 27, 2015
"The Individual and Universe Gas Constant". The Engineering Toolbox.
Retrieved October 27, 2015
Input:
C = temperature in °C
Output:
Speed of sound in m/s
Program: (25 Steps)
? → C : √( 1.4 * 286.9 * (C + 273.15
Example:
For 20°C, the speed of sound is approximately 343.1422868 m/s
Enjoy! Happy Halloween!
Eddie
This blog is property of Edward Shore. 2015
Tuesday, October 20, 2015
Staples Binder/Ruler/Scientific Calculator Review
Staples Binder/Ruler/Scientific Calculator Review
Staples has two binder calculators:
* Regular Calculator for $4.99. The regular calculator comes in different colors and is sold online.
Link: http://www.staples.com/Staples-Better-Binder-Calculator/product_150007
* Scientific Calculator for $7.99. Model 27952. I have yet to find this calculator sold online.
Both calculators are solar.
This review will focus on the scientific calculator.
Features:
* 136 Function Scientific Function
* 5 inch ruler on the side of the calculator
* Holes that will fit the calculator in a binder. And yes, I'm happy to report that the calculator still works after being in the binder.
Function wise, the calculator is pretty much a clone of the Sharp 501-EL. Basically the features are:
* One line scientific calculator. One -argument functions (trigonometric, logarithmic, exponential, square root, cube root) are executed after the number has been entered. For example: calculate the log 1.23, press: 1.23, [log].
* Binary, Decimal, Octal, and Hexadecimal conversions
* The two keys,[ a ] and [ b ] serve two purposes: polar/rectangular conversions and entering complex numbers (a + bi).
* The TAB function, normally called FIX, sets the number of decimals to be displayed (0-9), with the decimal point representing floating mode.
* Three angle mode toggle: Degrees > Radians > Grads
* "Straight-forward" percent key.
I would include statistics but unfortunately, when I tried to activities statistics mode, the calculator just clears itself.
The keyboard is very interesting but it looks like a standard 2-line scientific calculator. However, what would normally be the arrow keys are all the trigonometric keys and the hyperbolic function. I thought it was a nice touch deviating from the norm.
However, the some of the keys require more pressure for the key to activate. I found this to be for the [ - ] key, as well as the [ a ], [ b ], and [2ndF] keys. You really can't type on the keyboard quickly.
The manual is nice. Though it is a fold-out manual, the fold-out only expands to 3 pages, and you can easily divide the manual in half. The font is also readable, which I appreciate. There is one typo I have to point out:
On page 9 for the memory example, [CE] should replace [ON/C]. [ON/C] clears the memory and resets into Decimal/Floating Mode. [CE] just clears the entry.
Final Thoughts
If you buy this calculator (Staples 27952), the best features are that this calculator can be carried in a binder and the ruler/straight edge comes in handy. Overall, the keyboard is so-so and the [2ndf] [ON/C] not turning the statistics mode makes the calculator feel incomplete. I will still keep it in the collection, if only for the novelty.
I have no opinion on the regular, non-scientific calculator, but I'm sure it would score better than this scientific model.
Eddie
This blog is property of Edward Shore. 2015
Staples has two binder calculators:
* Regular Calculator for $4.99. The regular calculator comes in different colors and is sold online.
Link: http://www.staples.com/Staples-Better-Binder-Calculator/product_150007
* Scientific Calculator for $7.99. Model 27952. I have yet to find this calculator sold online.
Both calculators are solar.
This review will focus on the scientific calculator.
Features:
* 136 Function Scientific Function
* 5 inch ruler on the side of the calculator
* Holes that will fit the calculator in a binder. And yes, I'm happy to report that the calculator still works after being in the binder.
Function wise, the calculator is pretty much a clone of the Sharp 501-EL. Basically the features are:
* One line scientific calculator. One -argument functions (trigonometric, logarithmic, exponential, square root, cube root) are executed after the number has been entered. For example: calculate the log 1.23, press: 1.23, [log].
* Binary, Decimal, Octal, and Hexadecimal conversions
* The two keys,[ a ] and [ b ] serve two purposes: polar/rectangular conversions and entering complex numbers (a + bi).
* The TAB function, normally called FIX, sets the number of decimals to be displayed (0-9), with the decimal point representing floating mode.
* Three angle mode toggle: Degrees > Radians > Grads
* "Straight-forward" percent key.
I would include statistics but unfortunately, when I tried to activities statistics mode, the calculator just clears itself.
The keyboard is very interesting but it looks like a standard 2-line scientific calculator. However, what would normally be the arrow keys are all the trigonometric keys and the hyperbolic function. I thought it was a nice touch deviating from the norm.
However, the some of the keys require more pressure for the key to activate. I found this to be for the [ - ] key, as well as the [ a ], [ b ], and [2ndF] keys. You really can't type on the keyboard quickly.
The manual is nice. Though it is a fold-out manual, the fold-out only expands to 3 pages, and you can easily divide the manual in half. The font is also readable, which I appreciate. There is one typo I have to point out:
On page 9 for the memory example, [CE] should replace [ON/C]. [ON/C] clears the memory and resets into Decimal/Floating Mode. [CE] just clears the entry.
Final Thoughts
If you buy this calculator (Staples 27952), the best features are that this calculator can be carried in a binder and the ruler/straight edge comes in handy. Overall, the keyboard is so-so and the [2ndf] [ON/C] not turning the statistics mode makes the calculator feel incomplete. I will still keep it in the collection, if only for the novelty.
I have no opinion on the regular, non-scientific calculator, but I'm sure it would score better than this scientific model.
Eddie
This blog is property of Edward Shore. 2015
Handyman Calculator Android App Review
Handyman Calculator App Review
Developer: Kalyani
Platform: Android
Price: Free, but for $7.99 you can remove ads and gain the ability to save and email results
My review will focus on the Free Version.
Note: any apps that appear on the screenshots are coincidental, and not an endorsement of the companies supplying the ads.
The Handyman app is a list of solvers and conversion calculators for the fields of construction, electronics, carpentering, and machinery. It does not skimp on what is available either, we can practically find a tool for whatever is needed.
All the solvers and conversion calculators pretty much work the same way: enter the data you have on the blank lines, then scroll the worksheet down and press the (Convert) or (Solve) key and the rest is done. It is very easy to operate. If you are working in U.S. or metric units, Handyman has got you covered!
Here is a small sample of what Handyman offers:
Square and Cubic Footage Calculator
3-4-5 Rule Calculator (feet-inches or meters)
Air Conditioning (determine what BTUs are needed given room size and population)
Concrete Steps, Curbs, and Gutters
Deck Board Calculator (calculate number of boards required)
Drill Size Chart
Density Chart of Metals and Alloys
LED Resistors
Oil Pressure
Calculate the number of Sand Bags given length and width of area
Water Flow Rates
Again, this is only a small sample.
You can change the font type, color, and size. Press the triple vertical dots from the main menu and select Preferences. Changes will take effect the next time you run Handyman.
There are two other features worth noting:
* Metal Detector. Use the phone to point to where metal may be detected. The magnetic field is calculated (in micro telsas). Hunting for gold anyone?
* Roof Pitch Calculator, probably my favorite feature of the App. Tilt the phone to landscape position and lay it like the angle of the roof (or whatever you are trying to measure). The angle, in 1 degree increments, is calculated. (between 0 and 90 degrees). The app is sensitive so holding the phone is key.
Final Thoughts
This app is wonderful if you work in the construction, electronics, or home improvement. Really, for anyone. If you don't work in those fields, it is nice to have an app that you can refer to whenever the occasional home improvement questions come up. If you can stand apps, the Free version is great. Either way, free or paid, this app is worth the download.
Eddie
This blog is property of Edward Shore. 2015
Developer: Kalyani
Platform: Android
Price: Free, but for $7.99 you can remove ads and gain the ability to save and email results
My review will focus on the Free Version.
Note: any apps that appear on the screenshots are coincidental, and not an endorsement of the companies supplying the ads.
The Handyman app is a list of solvers and conversion calculators for the fields of construction, electronics, carpentering, and machinery. It does not skimp on what is available either, we can practically find a tool for whatever is needed.
All the solvers and conversion calculators pretty much work the same way: enter the data you have on the blank lines, then scroll the worksheet down and press the (Convert) or (Solve) key and the rest is done. It is very easy to operate. If you are working in U.S. or metric units, Handyman has got you covered!
Here is a small sample of what Handyman offers:
Square and Cubic Footage Calculator
3-4-5 Rule Calculator (feet-inches or meters)
Air Conditioning (determine what BTUs are needed given room size and population)
Concrete Steps, Curbs, and Gutters
Deck Board Calculator (calculate number of boards required)
Drill Size Chart
Density Chart of Metals and Alloys
LED Resistors
Oil Pressure
Calculate the number of Sand Bags given length and width of area
Water Flow Rates
Again, this is only a small sample.
You can change the font type, color, and size. Press the triple vertical dots from the main menu and select Preferences. Changes will take effect the next time you run Handyman.
There are two other features worth noting:
* Metal Detector. Use the phone to point to where metal may be detected. The magnetic field is calculated (in micro telsas). Hunting for gold anyone?
* Roof Pitch Calculator, probably my favorite feature of the App. Tilt the phone to landscape position and lay it like the angle of the roof (or whatever you are trying to measure). The angle, in 1 degree increments, is calculated. (between 0 and 90 degrees). The app is sensitive so holding the phone is key.
Final Thoughts
This app is wonderful if you work in the construction, electronics, or home improvement. Really, for anyone. If you don't work in those fields, it is nice to have an app that you can refer to whenever the occasional home improvement questions come up. If you can stand apps, the Free version is great. Either way, free or paid, this app is worth the download.
Eddie
This blog is property of Edward Shore. 2015
Sunday, October 18, 2015
HP Prime Programs Update: BOOLLIST and SAM
Two typos had to be corrected for the BOOLLIST (choose a list's elements by use of a boolean list) and SAM (random perumtation). Both of the program listings are now correct and are the links are listed here:
BOOLLIST
EXPORT BOOLLIST(LA, LB)
BEGIN
LOCAL LC, n, s, k, j;
// Initialization
LC≔{ };
j≔1;
s≔SIZE(LA);
n≔SIZE(LB);
// Process
FOR k FROM 1 TO s DO
IF LB(j)==1 THEN
LC≔CONCAT(LC,LA(k));
END;
j≔j+1;
IF j>n THEN
j≔1;
END;
END;
RETURN LC;
END;
SAM
Input: SAM(n)
EXPORT SAM(n)
BEGIN
LOCAL s,L0,L1,I,c;
L0≔MAKELIST(X,X,1,n,1);
L1≔{ };
I≔0;
REPEAT
c≔RANDINT(1,n);
IF L0(c)≠0 THEN
L1≔CONCAT(L1,{L0(c)});
L0(c)≔0;
I≔I+1;
END;
UNTIL I==n;
RETURN L1;
END;
Eddie
This blog is property of Edward Shore. 2015
Thursday, October 15, 2015
Update: A Possible Future HP Prime App
Update: A Possible Future HP Prime App
I am working on making a new App for the HP Prime. My plan is for the app is to have a collection of special functions (such as super factorial, Bessel function of the 1st kind) and application calculations (such as Dew Point, Millman Theorem). The reason why I am optioning for an is that the functions can be accessed through the Toolbox-App menu. It is still in its infant stage right now.
I also want to do a geometry tutorial series, my first choice is for the HP Prime's Geometry App but I am open to doing a short series for the TI 84's Cabri Jr. instead.
Please let me know any suggestions in the comments. Thank you,
Eddie
Sunday, October 4, 2015
HHC 2015 Conference Talks
 |
| HP Prime. Picture from HHC 2014 Conference Materials |
The HHC 2015 took place in Nashville a couple of weeks ago (September 26 and 27, 2015). I was not able to go this year (my father passed away).
Here are some videos that hpcalc.org posted on YouTube. I thank both hpcalc.org and the HPMOC. I always have a great time at these conference and really hope to go next year’s conference.
Links to individual talks are listed below, but you can access the channel hpcalc.org on YouTube to get access to all of them as well.
Enjoy!
Eddie
HHC 2015: TI vs. HP and Fast Mode – Gene Wright
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WIN2y-SnA6c
HHC 2015: HP-41CL Update – Gene Wright
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4B3SS6D6sw
HHC 2015: Prime Savage (speed/"accuracy" comparisons) - Włodek Mier-Jędrzejowicz
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5c5YsMO5VM
HHC 2015: Genetic Algorithm Optimization using the HP Prime – Namir Shammas
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qwrcpdV4_k
HHC 2015: HP-65 Pro emulator for the Apple iPad – Namir Shammas
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pBP1e3d-H0
HHC 2015: Fritzing, China, and the NP-25 – Jim Johnson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5wyOlnvBDfs
HHC 2015: A Numeric Compression Algorithm for the HP Prime (VCR Plus+) - Jackie Woldering
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ofCRF1iVaY4
HHC 2015: Informal Demos, System upgrades, etc. – Geoff Quickfall
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCUNOdwv3pg
HHC 2015: FRAM71 Introduction – Bob Prosperi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z6rN5-a6daA
HHC 2015: Random Number Generators using Integer Array Shuffling with the HP Prime – Namir Shmmas
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4gGUhYn-5E
HHC 2015: Particle Swarm Optimization using the HP Prime – Namir Shmmas
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZECsjOWIPx4
HHC 2015: Virtual HP-IL (and related topics) Update – Bob Prosperi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jul5fetcFSE
HHC 2015: Review of DM-41 and the brand-new DM-15L
- Richard Nelson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tMSxxZ0QnNU
HHC 2015: Children of Stone – A Self-Publishing Saga - Mary Woldering
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_KEU5fmjPMs
HHC 2015: The Glacial Pace of Scaled Reptiles - Eric Smith
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKt4Ijqp3hw
HHC 2015: Update on 342 page Calculator References List Project – Felix Gross
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1vsk3c3L0U
HHC 2015: The WP-43S (The specification needs a platform) – Jake Schwartz
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jqdQhsunei4
HHC 2015: HP 50g System Flash Upgrade - Günter Schink
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5tTBjqRnpOw
HHC 2015: Woodstocks in the Twenty-First Century - Geoff Quickfall
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d4tYbkMdv6Y
This blog is property of Edward Shore. 2015
Here are some videos that hpcalc.org posted on YouTube. I thank both hpcalc.org and the HPMOC. I always have a great time at these conference and really hope to go next year’s conference.
Links to individual talks are listed below, but you can access the channel hpcalc.org on YouTube to get access to all of them as well.
Enjoy!
Eddie
HHC 2015: TI vs. HP and Fast Mode – Gene Wright
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WIN2y-SnA6c
HHC 2015: HP-41CL Update – Gene Wright
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4B3SS6D6sw
HHC 2015: Prime Savage (speed/"accuracy" comparisons) - Włodek Mier-Jędrzejowicz
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h5c5YsMO5VM
HHC 2015: Genetic Algorithm Optimization using the HP Prime – Namir Shammas
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qwrcpdV4_k
HHC 2015: HP-65 Pro emulator for the Apple iPad – Namir Shammas
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6pBP1e3d-H0
HHC 2015: Fritzing, China, and the NP-25 – Jim Johnson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5wyOlnvBDfs
HHC 2015: A Numeric Compression Algorithm for the HP Prime (VCR Plus+) - Jackie Woldering
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ofCRF1iVaY4
HHC 2015: Informal Demos, System upgrades, etc. – Geoff Quickfall
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCUNOdwv3pg
HHC 2015: FRAM71 Introduction – Bob Prosperi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z6rN5-a6daA
HHC 2015: Random Number Generators using Integer Array Shuffling with the HP Prime – Namir Shmmas
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m4gGUhYn-5E
HHC 2015: Particle Swarm Optimization using the HP Prime – Namir Shmmas
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZECsjOWIPx4
HHC 2015: Virtual HP-IL (and related topics) Update – Bob Prosperi
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jul5fetcFSE
HHC 2015: Review of DM-41 and the brand-new DM-15L
- Richard Nelson
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tMSxxZ0QnNU
HHC 2015: Children of Stone – A Self-Publishing Saga - Mary Woldering
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_KEU5fmjPMs
HHC 2015: The Glacial Pace of Scaled Reptiles - Eric Smith
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FKt4Ijqp3hw
HHC 2015: Update on 342 page Calculator References List Project – Felix Gross
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r1vsk3c3L0U
HHC 2015: The WP-43S (The specification needs a platform) – Jake Schwartz
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jqdQhsunei4
HHC 2015: HP 50g System Flash Upgrade - Günter Schink
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5tTBjqRnpOw
HHC 2015: Woodstocks in the Twenty-First Century - Geoff Quickfall
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d4tYbkMdv6Y
This blog is property of Edward Shore. 2015
Friday, October 2, 2015
Mathlab Android App Review
Mathlab Android App Review
Developer: Mathlab
Apps, LLC
Cost: Free
Version, and a Paid Version $4.99*
Engine: Android
* For some reason
apps through Google Play, sales tax is charged for downloaded apps.
Review
My focus will be on the paid version. The free version does not have 3D Graphing,
the ability to store constants, functions, or expressions.
The calculator app has three main modes: Calc, Graph, and Table.
Calc Mode
From the initial looks of things, the keyboard on the
Calc mode is simple with a limited amount of functions. Don’t let the minimalist look fool you. Behind many of the keys lie many additional
functions, which can be accessed by either repeated presses of the button or
holding down the button to access functions.
For example:
Holding the n! key grants access to n!, nCr, and nPr.
Holding the x^n key grants access to x^n, x’, x” (for
derivative calculations). Yes, Mathlab
does the symbolic first and second derivative of f(x). You can combine x’ and x’’ for third and
higher derivatives. With the degree key
(°), x’ and x’’ can be used to execute calculations using degrees-minutes-seconds.
Holding the √ key grants access to square roots, cube
roots, and quartic roots.
To switch between trigonometric and hyperbolic functions,
press and hold the π and e keys, respectively.
And yes, you get access to the csc, sec, and cot (and all the relative
functions) on both modes. The angle
modes available are Degree and Radian.
When you enter fractions, Mathlab displays answers in
both fraction (mixed and improper, if necessary) AND the decimal
equivalent. Displaying multiple forms is
also present in calculations involving degrees-minutes-seconds and
factoring/expanding polynomials.
Just enter the calculation and the app makes the calculation
for you, despite the presence of an equals key. Calculations are terminated by pressing the
return key. I have to admit that this
takes getting used to. Also, when
entering expressions, I found it is easier to look at the entry line above the
output screen rather due to the automatic calculation. Entries on the output screen are shown in
textbook style.
This doesn’t mean that the equals key is useless. Mathlab
also solves equations and inequalities.
Once a variable is solved for, the value is stored in the variable. If you want to execute a new calculation with
the same variables (x, y, t, z, r, θ), press and hold the clear [C] button or
start a new worksheet.
Calc also features matrices, vectors (the multiplication
key holds both the dot and cross product), and full complex number
support. However, the factorial function
only works with integers. (You definitely can go higher than 69!). For the matrix functions norm, tr
(transpose), and det (determinant), you’ll need to type them in manually.
Mathlab can also convert numbers between binary, decimal,
octal, and hexadecimal mode. Start binary, octal, and hexadecimal numbers with
0b, 0o, and 0x, respectively. Conversion
functions include bin, dec, oct, and hex.
Graph
Graphing allows you to graph functions, polar equations,
parametric equations, and 3D (Pro version only). You can trace on anything that is graphed by
holding down on the screen and tracing the graph with your finger. If applicable, extreme points and roots are
shown. With the Calc mode, just swipe
the keyboard down for more of the output screen, until you are ready to operate
again.
For polar equations, insert the variable θ. For parametric, two expressions will be entered. The first will be in the format x = f(t),
press Enter, then enter the second in the format y = g(t).
For 3D, entering equations to be graphed is simple as in
2D mode. Mathlab defaults to colorized
mesh graphs, but if you want, you can turn off color and/or change 3D graphs to
dots.
Graph also offers inequality graphing. Unfortunately there is no shading, you get arrows
that indicate which area of the graph is covered.
If you enter a vector with an even number of elements,
you can create a scatterplot. The vector
will be in the format [x1, y1, x2, y2, …, xn, yn]. You can tap the vector on the
left side of the screen below the input screen (check mark) to get a linear
regression line.
Again, Mathlab does an excellent job getting many
functions in the little space of the phone size.
I also like the ease that you can zoom and scroll graphs. The app is very responsive.
Table
The Table function is an extension of the Graph
mode. Enter your expression in Graph
mode and switch to the Table to see it.
You can also enter additional expressions outside of Graph mode. The zoom and scroll also work dynamically and
well.
Storing Constants and Functions (PRO Only)
You can use the alphabetic and Greek keyboards to define
constants and functions. Obviously, if
you plan on using the app for an extended period of time, it pays to get the
Pro version. You will need to type in
all your constants, since Mathlab doesn’t provide a pre-library of constants.
Help
There are two help pages.
The first comes with the app, and it is just a quick help page. You do get the full keyboard mapping on this
page. The second page is through Mathlab
website (help.mathlab.us for the United States site) and is very thorough.
Final Thoughts
I’m impressed on how Mathlab manages to organize many functions
into what looks like a minimalist (clean) keyboard. The automatic results are great and the
zoom/scroll dynamics of graphs and tables are awesome. You get a lot for the Free version, but if
you plan to use this app for a long period of time, I would recommend getting
the full version, particularly for the ability to store constants and
customized functions.
This blog is property of Edward Shore. 2015.
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