Retro Review: Canon Palm Printer P1-DH V

Retro Review:  Canon Palm Printer P1-DH V

Quick Facts:

Model:  Palm Printer P1-DH DV
Company:  Canon
Type:  Printing
Years:   I think this model is around 2016, not sure, I got this from a search on Amazon.  The current version is P1-DH V3
Display:  12 digits
Batteries:  4 AAA Battery and/or AC Adapter AD-380
Original Retail Price:  about $30.00 to $35.00
Logic:  Chain

This review is on an older model P1-DH DV.  I think the current version at the time of this post is the P1-DH DV3. 

I will focus my review on the keyboard and features only, not on the printing features. 

The calculator will operate on AC power alone, without batteries, which I like. 

Unlike most printing calculators, the P1-DH V operates as a four-function Chain calculator instead of an adding machine.  For example:  to add 2, 7, and 11, type:

2 [ + ] 7 [ + ] 11 [ = ]

Result: 20

Features

This is a standard printing calculator that has the following features:

*  Decimal Point Selectors:  F (float, no indicator), 0, 2, 3, 4, A (add mode).  The mode is changed by the key [DEC].   Float is the default mode. 

*  Rounding/Truncate Toggle:  toggle between rounding and truncate with the [5/4] key.  When the 5/4 is on, the calculator is on rounding mode.  Note that this setting has no affect on results on when the decimal point selector is set to Float.

Example:

Float Mode:
1 [ ÷ ] 6 [ = ] returns 0.16 666 666 666

2 Decimal Place Mode:  (2 indicator)
5/4 on (Rounding mode):  1 [ ÷ ] 6 [ = ] returns 0.17
5/4 off (Truncate mode):  1 [ ÷ ] 6 [ = ] returns 0.16

*  One memory register is available, with sum and difference.   When [ M+ = ] is pressed, the calculation is completed and is added to the memory register.   When [ M- = ] is pressed, the calculation is completed and is subtracted from the memory register.

Example:

1000 * 298 + 928 * 172 - 442 * 180

[ RM/CM ] until memory is cleared
1000 [ × ] 298 [ M+ = ]
928 [ × ] 172 [ M+ = ]
442 [ × ] 180 [ M- = ]
[ RM/CM ]
Result:  378,056

*  Time Calculations:  You can enter hours-minutes for calculations in either AM/PM or 2400 hour format by using the [TIME CAL] key.  You know the calculator is ready to accept hours-minutes when the screen shows 00:00.  In AM/PM mode, switch between AM/PM by use the [TIME CAL AM/PM] button.  To calculate the difference between times, the required key is the key with the tilde mark on it.  ( [ ~ ] )

Example:  What time has passed between 23:17 and 11:16?  (2400 hours)

[TIME CAL] [TIME CAL] (00:00 without an AM/PM indicator means 2400 hours):
2 3 1 7 [ ~ ]
1 1 1 6 [ = ]

11:59 (11 hours, 59 minutes)

* Cost/Sell/Margin and Sales Tax Calculation.  See the next section.

The [ B ← → T ] Key

The [ B ←→ T ] rules what functions the blue keys execute on the P1-DH V. 

Indicator T:  Tax Mode (Default mode)

[ TAX+ ]:  Add tax using the rate stored
[ TAX- ]:  Subtract tax using the rate stored
[ RATE ]:  Press this key to enter the tax rate (RATE will be blinking), press [ RATE ] again to finish

Indicator B:  Business Mode

[ COST ]:  Cost
[ SELL ]:  Sell
[ MARGIN ]:  Margin

Enter any of the two values, the third is automatically calculated.

Example: 
Sell = $29.95,  Margin = 8%

[ B ←→ T ] until B appears
29.95 [ SELL ] (SELL flashes)
8 [ MARGIN ]

Result:  27.55 (COST indicator)

Keyboard

The keyboard is nice and light.  The keys are rubber and very responsive.  The key response and register is great.  My hands are a little too big but it is possible to speed calculate on the Palm Printer. 

I like the screen but I wish the indicators were bigger, as they are too tiny for my preference.  Just make sure you triple check which mode you are in.  This model I purchased in December 2019 at a Revivals Store in Palm Springs. 

Eddie

All original content copyright, © 2011-2020.  Edward Shore.   Unauthorized use and/or unauthorized distribution for commercial purposes without express and written permission from the author is strictly prohibited.  This blog entry may be distributed for noncommercial purposes, provided that full credit is given to the author.

Scientific Calculators Two Ways of Entering Complex Numbers

Scientific Calculators Two Ways of Entering Complex Numbers

On scientific calculators, there are two primary ways complex numbers are entered:

1. Using the [ a ] and [ b ] keys 

2. Using a + bi notation

Complex Numbers using the [ a ] and [ b ] Keys

Calculators:  Canon F-605, Sharp EL-501X, Texas Instruments TI-35 Plus, Texas Instruments TI-52, most bargain Dollar Store calculators

This applies to most basic level scientific calculators.  Only arithmetic operations and polar/rectangular conversions apply in this mode.

Entering complex numbers:   real part [ a ] imaginary part [ b ]

Entering polar complex numbers (for conversion to rectangular complex numbers only):  magnitude [ a ] argument/angle [ b ]

Please be aware that in this mode where the [ a ] and [ b ] keys have to be used, the order of operations are not followed.

Example:  (3 + 3i) + (2 + 3i) * (4 + 3i)

(What is really calculated:  ((3 + 3i) + (2 + 3i)) * (4 + 3i))

Key Strokes: (in complex mode)

3 [ a ] 3 [ b ] [ + ] 2 [ a ] 3 [ b ] [ × ] 4 [ a ] 3 [ b ] [ = ]

Result:  2 + 39i (2 is stored in a, 39 is stored in b)

Example:  Transform 8 – 3i to Polar representation, use degrees mode

Key Strokes: (in complex mode)

Press [ DRG ] until the calculator is in Degrees mode (DEG indicator)

8 [ a ] 3 [ +/- ] [ b ] [ 2nd/SHIFT/INV ] (R→P, →rθ)

Result: 

([ a ]) 8.544003745  ( r )

[ b ] -20.55604522 ( θ )

Complex Numbers using the a + bi Notation

Calculators:  most multi-line scientific calculators (Casio fx-115ES, fx-991ES, fx-991 Classwiz, Texas Instruments TI-36X Pro, Sharp EL-W516, Canon F-792SGA, most graphing calculators  

Complex numbers using a + bi notation are entered exactly as they are written.  This mode is present on more advanced scientific calculators, particular the multiline calculators, as well as all graphing calculators.   The ability to calculate and display complex numbers may be turned on in a separate mode, or turned on through a set up menu.

Typically the available functions for complex numbers are:

* Arithmetic

* Inverse

* Square

* Polar/Rectangular Conversion

* Absolute Value

* Argument

* Real and Imaginary Parts

* Conjugate

* Square Roots (graphing calculators, all HP calculators with complex numbers)

* Exponentials and Logarithms (graphing calculators, all HP calculators with complex numbers)

* Powers, both real and complex (graphing calculators, all HP calculators with complex numbers)

* Trigonometric functions (TI-85, TI-86, TI-89, Casio Classpad, all HP calculators with  complex numbers)

In this complex numbers mode, the order of operations is followed.

Example:  (3 + 3i) + (2 + 3i) * (4 + 3i)

Key Strokes:  (*key strokes may vary)

[ ( ] 3 [ + ] 3 [ i ] [ ) ] [ + ] [ ( ] 2 [ + ] 3 [ i ] [ ) ] [ × ] [ ( ] 4 [ + ] 3 [ i ] [ ) ]

Result:  2 + 21i (2 [ Re<>Im ] 21)

Example:  Transform 8 – 3i to Polar representation, use degrees mode

Key Strokes: (in complex mode)

Press [ DRG ] until the calculator is in Degrees mode (DEG indicator)

Alternative 1:  (8 – 3i) >r∠θ,  (8 – 3i)>Polar

Alternative 2:

r:  abs(8 – 3i)

θ: angle(8 – 3i), arg(8 – 3i)

Result:

8.54003745 ∠ -20.5604522,  8.54003745*e^(-20.5604522*i)

That is two primary ways how complex numbers are entered on scientific calculators.

Eddie

All original content copyright, © 2011-2018.  Edward Shore.   Unauthorized use and/or unauthorized distribution for commercial purposes without express and written permission from the author is strictly prohibited.  This blog entry may be distributed for noncommercial purposes, provided that full credit is given to the author.  Please contact the author if you have questions.

Review: Canon F-792SGA Scientific Calculator

Here it is, a full in-depth review of the Canon Eco-Friendly F-792SGA calculator. For a hilarious intro video to the calculator, just click here:

http://youtu.be/F4QJZSLYLyk

Thanks Gina and Dad!

Quick Stats
Company: Canon
Price: The price ranges from $13 to $20.
Power: Solar, with battery backup (one CR2032 battery)
Where to Buy: Online. I am not aware of any stores in the United States (maybe Fry's?) that have them on sale. I got mine from amazon.com.
Package: Blister package. The calculator comes with two foldable manual sheets: one in English, the other in Spanish.
Special Note: The calculator's shell is made of recycled plastic.
Year Manufactured: first manufactured in 2013

Official web page from Canon: http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/consumer/products/calculators/compact_calculators/f_792sga

At the time of this blog post, Canon does not offer an electronic version of the manual. Hopefully it will be uploaded soon.

Calculator Modes Offered
(First page)
1: COMP - Regular Calculator Mode
2: CMLX - Complex Number Mode
3: STAT - Statistics Mode
4: BASE - Base Calculations
5: EQN - Simultaneous Equations up to 4 x 4 systems, Quadratic, Cubic, and Quartic polynomial solver
6: TABLE - Function table of one variable
7: MATX - Matrices with operations for up to 4 x 4 matrices
8: VCTR - Vectors with operations for up to 3-element vectors
(Second Page)
1: INEQ - Inequality Solver
2: RATIO - Ratio Solver

General Math Mode

The F-792SGA allows for linear or textbook input and output. In textbook input, exact roots and multiples of π are displayed. Pressing the F-D key converts answers between exact and approximate.

Keyboard and the Apps Key

The keys are nice and responsive. Also, the keys stay in place when pressed and don't make slight shifts, giving the keyboard stability.

The keyboard is also nicely organized. The dedicated Apps button gives the user access to functions depending on the mode.

COMP: Π (product), Σ (sums), Max (of at least 2 numbers), Min (of at least 2 numbers), Q...r (quotient and remainder), Mod, LCM (of at least 2 integers), GCD (of at least 2 integers)

CMPLX: Polar and rectangular conversions, real part, imaginary part, conjugate, argument

STAT: ability to change regression type, edit data, regression variables, normal distribution area calculations

BASE: AND, OR, XOR, XNOR, NOT, NEG, base markers

EQN: change equation type

MATX: edit matrices, determinant, transpose, generate identity matrices, inverse of matrices (Inv), adjoint to matrices

VCTR: edit vectors, dot product. (Use × for cross product)

RATIO and INEQ: change type

Advanced Functions on the Keyboard

In COMP mode, you can calculate numerical derivatives of f(X), definite integrals of f(X), random numbers, and random integers (Press [Alpha], [ . ]).

Solving Equations in COMP Mode

To solve an equation, type in the equation, follow it with a comma (Press [Shift], [ ) ]). Then press [Shift], [CALC]. You can use the variables A through F, X, Y, and M.

38 Built In Formulas

Canon has a nice feature that is exclusive to the Canon scientific calculator line: that is the 38 built in formulas. On the F-792SGA, just press [Alpha], [ ( ]. Then scroll to get the formula desired, press the equals key. You are prompted for the variables and the result is returned.

For reference, I will have the 38 formulas listed at the end of this review after the Verdict section.

Complex Mode

The complex mode is a separate mode. The nice thing is that there are real and imag functions. Unfortunately, transcendental functions (powers, logs, trig) are not available with complex numbers.

Statistics Mode

You can turn the frequency column on and off. The F-792SGA can store up to 80 single points or 40 pairs. With the frequency column turned on, the number of slots are halved.

Regressions available are: Linear, Exponential (y = a*e^(b*x) and y = a*x^b), Power, Logarithmic, Inverse, and Quadratic (nice!)



F-792SGA vs. Other Scientific Calculators

The display and operating system of the Canon F-792SGA is practically the same of Casio's current Natural-V.P.A.M calculators (such as the fx-115ES PLUS). However, this is not a straight-knock off of the Casio counterpart.

Here are some differences:

* The F-792SGA has 79 scientific constants and 170 conversion pairs compared to the fx-115ES PLUS's 40 and 40, respectively. For further comparison purposes, the Sharp EL-W516X has 52 and 44, respectively. The nice thing about the F-792SGA is that you don't need to type a code to access the constants and conversions.

* The F-792SGA has a ratio solving mode, which I think is unique to this calculator (or to the Canon line?). This mode solves for X in two ratio statements: a:b=X:d and a:b=c:X. This is in place of the fx-115ES PLUS' verify mode.

* Up to 4 x 4 matrices can be used with the F-792SGA. This is on par with the Sharp EL-W516X. However, I like the matrix handling and operation on the F-792SGA better.

* The F-792SGA is one of the few solar scientific calculators to solve quartic equations, if not the only one.

* The F-792SGA has 19 memory registers: A-F, X, Y, M, and 0-9. The numeric storage registers are good for longer-term storage of constants. This is first calculator of this time to allow the use of numeric registers.

* The F-792SGA has 38 built in formulas, exclusive to Canon scientific calculators. This is referring to all non-graphing calculators.

Verdict

The Canon F-792SGA is a solid calculator and can rival the solar scientific calculators that are available. Again, you may not be able to find Canon calculators in most stores (that is unfortunate), so the most realistic way to get one is to order online (assuming it is available in your country).

I hope you enjoyed this review.

Eddie

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List of Formulas included with the F-792SGA

1. Area of a Triangle: S = 1/2 * b * c * sin A

2. Area of a Circle: S = π * r^2

3. Fan-Shaped Area (Sector): S = 1/2 * r^2 * θ

4. Area of a Parallelogram: S = a * b * sin θ

5. Area of an Ellipse: S = π * a * b

6. Area of a Trapezoid: S = 1/2 * (a + b) * h

7. Surface Area-Sphere: S = 4 * π * r^2

8. Surface Area-Cylinder: S = 2 * π * r * (h + r)

9. Volume-Sphere: S = 4/3 * π * r^3

10. Volume-Cylinder: V = π * r^2 * h

11. Volume-Cone: V = 1/3 * π * r^2 * h

12. Sum-Arithmetic Progression: S = 1/2 * n * (2*a_0 + (n-1)*d))

13. Sum-Geometric Progression: S = a_0 * (r^n - 1)/(r - 1)

14. Σ(n^2) = 1/6 * n * (n + 1) * (2*n + 1)

15. Σ(n^3) = (1/2 * n * (n + 1))^2

16. Distance between two points: √((x_2 - x_1)^2 + (y_2 - y_1)^2)

17. Included angle between two lines: θ = atan((k_2 - k_1)/(1 + k_1 * k_2))

18. Law of Cosines-find side: a = √(b^2 + c^2 - 2*b*c*sin A)

19. Law of Sines-find side: a = 2 * r * sin A

20. Distance: d = v_0 * t + 1/2 * a * t^2

21. Velocity: v = v_0 + a * t

22. Circular Motion-Finding Period with velocity: T = 2 * π * r/v

23. Circular Motion-Finding Period with angular velocity: T = 2 * π/omega

24. Period of Simple Pendulum: T = 2 * π * √(l/g)

25. Electric Oscillation Frequency: f = 1/(2 * π * √(L * C))

26. Resistance: R = ρ * l/s

27. Joule's Theorem: P = V^2/R

28. Joule's Theorem: P = I^2 * R

29. Shunt Resistance: R = (R_1 * R_2)/(R_1 + R_2)

30. Kinetic Energy: E = 1/2 * m * v^2

31. Gravitational Potential Energy: E = m * g * h

32. Centrifugal Force: F = m * v^2/r

33. Centrifugal Force: F = m * omega^2 * r

34. Law of Gravity: F = G * M * m/r^2 (G = 6.6728*10^-11)

35. Electric Field Intensity: E = Q/(4 * π * epsilon * r^2)

36. Heron's Formula: S = √(Φ*(Φ-a)*(Φ-b)*(Φ-c)) where Φ=(a+b+c)/2. Only a,b, and c are asked for.

37. Optics-Reflective Index: E = sin I/sin r

38. Optics-Critical Angle-Total Reflection: θ = asin(n_2/n_1)

** g is assumed to be g = 9.80665 m/s^2. Use SI units.

Note: These formulas are included with most Canon scientific calculators, like the F-710. The notable exception is the F-604, where the formulas are not present.
Source: Canon F-792SGA Manual

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This blog is property of Edward Shore. 2014