Hi everyone. Today I am giving a short review of the Sharp EL-W516X solar calculator. I bought this calculator at Target for $17.99.
The main features of the EL-W516X include: WriteView mode, statistical operations, matrix operations, base calculations, complex operations, and a drill mode. The drill mode tests your mathematical ability on arithmetic problems. While this mode has been panned, I find the drill mode enjoyable, and I challenge myself to see how fast I can correctly answer a set of questions.
Generally, this calculator is a remake of the Sharp EL-W516 calculator. A picture of both models are shown below, with the newer EL-W516X on the left, and the older EL-W516 on the right.
The set of operations of the EL-W516X is the same as the EL-W516. The normal mode allows you enter calculations in a linear format or a textbook format (WriteView ™). The textbook format reurns exact answers (fractions, fractions of π, square roots) whenever possible. Decimal equivalents can be accessed by pressing the CHANGE key (sometimes twice).
Some of them include:
Catalog. This calculator contains a catalog of all the functions available by pressing MATH, 0. The catalog is available in every mode.
Calculus. Functions include single variable numerical integration, single numberical derivatives, and the sum function (Σ). I am happy to report that on the several tests calculations I made with the EL-W516X, the calculator boasts a faster processor than its predecessor.
Statistics. Regressions include linear, quadratic, power, exponential, logarithmic, inverse, and general exponential (y = a * b^x). Normal distribution calculations are include in this mode. (finding the area but not inverse)
Base Operations.. The calculator offers five bases: decimal (standard), binary, octal, hexadecimal, and pental (base 5). To enter a base mode, all you Ned to do is to perform a conversion. To access the A-F in hexadecimal mode, you just need to press the corresponding key (no ALPHA key required). The logic operations (and, not, or, etc) are found in the catalog.
Equation Solving. In addition to the ability to solve any equation in one variable (X), the calculator has solvers for 2 x 2 and 3 x 3 linear systems, and the quadratic and cubic equation. The general solver is in form f(X) = 0, you supply the f(X).
Complex Mode. . This mode in my opinion, falls a little short. This mode can not use WriteView and it's operations are limited to polar/rectangular conversions, square (x^2), cube (x^3), and the arithmetic operations. I would have liked for it to do at least exponential and logarithms, as well as exponential powers beyond 3.
Definable Functions.. You can store up to four operations in memories D1 - D4 for later use. Not very useful because what you can store is limited.
Definable Formulas. You can store up to four formulas (including integrals, sums, and derivatives) in memories F1 - F4 for later use. I find this ability useful, you can store formulas for calculation or even for reference. The ALGB function (MATH, 1 in Normal Mode) can be used to substitute values for variables.
Other. The calculator offers basic matrix, lists, and table operations.
OVERALL
I like the sharp, crisp display of the EL-W516X. The calculator also has a faster processor - which means faster calculations (it pays truly pays off when doing numerical calculus). Function wise, this calculator has a lot to offer and us good pick up for anyone who wants an inexpensive calculator with a lot of function. 4 out 5 stars.
