Review: Casio fx-991CW (and the lack of multi-statements)

Review:  Casio fx-991CW (and the lack of multi-statements)

Quick Facts

Model:  fx-991CW

Company:  Casio

Years:  Internationally: 2022 - present, United States: April 2023 - present

Type:  Scientific

Power:  Solar with 1 LR44 backup battery

Display:  Multiline, 4-color gray display

Original Price:  $21.00 - $22.99 U.S. Dollars, varies on the specific version

Number of Variables:  9

Operating System: Algebraic

Update on the Classwiz

The fx-991CW is an update in Casio's Classwiz series, specifically on the 2015 fx-991EX Classwiz.  

Check out my review on the fx-991EX Classwiz from November 2015 here:

http://edspi31415.blogspot.com/2015/11/casio-fx-991ex-classwiz-review.html

The modes on the Classwiz are:

Calculate:  the main app for mathematical calculations

Statistics:  1 to 2 variable statistics.  Regressions include:

Linear:  y=a+bx

Quadratic: y=a+bx+cx^2

Logarithmic:  y=a+b*ln(x)

Exponential:  y=a*e^(bx)

Power I:  y=a*b^x

Power II: y=a*x^b

Inverse:  y=a+b/x

Distribution:  Calculations involving the binomial, normal, and Poisson.  The Inverse Normal deal with the lower tail (left) probability only.  

Spreadsheet:  Like the fx-991EX and Casio's current graphing calculators, the fx-991CW has a spreadsheet which has a 5 x 45 cell capacity.  The total memory is increased to 2,380 bytes (from 1,700 bytes on the fx-991EX).  Basic spreadsheet features included are:  labeling cells, sum, mean, minimum, maximum, absolute cell references ($), copy, cut, and paste.  

Table:   Generate a table of one function or two functions.   The functions are defined as f(x) and g(x).  With a QR code, you can generate a graph of these functions.

Equation:   Solve linear systems, up to 4 x 4 equations.  Solve polynomials, up to 4th order.  Real coefficients only but complex roots are calculated.   The general equation solver is moved to this mode.   

Inequality:  Solve inequalities up for polynomials of orders 2, 3, and 4.

Complex Number:  Complex number arithmetic with polar/rectangular conversion, integer powers, real/imaginary parts, conjugate

Base N:  Integer arithmetic with Boolean logic.  Instead of keys, the [FORMAT] key cycles through the four modes: Decimal, Hexadecimal, Binary, Octal.   Binary integers are up to 31 bytes with 1 sign bit.  We can not store or recall varaible values in this mode.

Matrix:  Works with four matrices up to 4 rows and 4 columns.  Functions include transpose, inverse, and determinant.

Vector:  Works with 4 vectors with either 2 or 3 elements.  Functions include dot product, norm, and cross product.

Ratio:  Solves common ratio problems.

Math Box:  This is the a new feature to the Classwiz.   For the United States, the Math Box has two simulations:  Dice Rolls and Coin Toss.   Depending on the country, the CW may include additional features.  

Emulator and Classpad.net

Purchasing a fx-991CW came with a emulator license with ClassPad.net.   The license number can be obtained using the Get Started option from the Settings menu.   Use the QR code.  For my calculator, the license for using ClassPad.net is seven years at no cost.  However, using an emulator without first purchasing an eligible calculator will require an additional cost.  

You can find details about Classpad.net here:  https://classpad.net/intl/features/

Keyboard, What is Added, and What is Subtracted

The keyboard of the fx-991CW is quite different from the previous Casio calculators.   The keys are now round with a lot less labels.   Most of functions are now stored in the catalog and tools.  Let's go over some of these keys:

[ house icon ]: [HOME].   This is where we switch the modes of the fx-991CW.   There are no numerical shortcuts, so we have to arrow and scroll to select the mode we want.  

[ three lines ]: [SETTINGS].  The settings key replaces the SETUP key sequence.   

Also note that the sub menus are selected by either pressing [ → ] or [ EXE ].  If there are radio buttons, select the option desired.  

[ curved arrow ]: [EXIT/EDIT].  This key, on the 2nd row, 2nd key from the left, will be used to exit menus and re-edit expressions.   

[ double up arrow ]/[ double down arrow ]:  This key, top right of the calculator, is used to quickly scroll through menus or lists.  Think of this key as the Page Up/Page Down key.

[ < >x] ]/[VARIABLE]:  This is the variable key.

Here is where we will store and edit values that are stored in each of the nine variables.   This key replaces the STORE key.     If we are operate in a mode that does not allow for editing or store values, there will be a lock icon with the selected variable.  

To store a result:

1.  Execute operation or recalling a calculated stat variable.

2.  Press [VARIABLE].

3.  Select variable, press [ OK ].

4.  Select Store, press [ OK ].

To edit a variable's value:

1.  Press [VARIABLE].

2.  Select variable, press [ OK ].

3.  Select Edit, press [ OK ].

4.  Enter the new value, press [ OK ].

To recall a variable in a calculation:

1.  Press [ SHIFT ].

2.  Press any of the following keys to get the variable:

[ 4 ]:  A

[ 5 ]:  B

[ 6 ]:  C

[ 1 ]:  D

[ 2 ]:  E

[ 3 ]:  F

[ 0 ]:  x

[ . ]:  y

[ x10^ ]:  z

There is no ALPHA key as it was in past Casio calculators.  

[ f(x) ]/[FUNCTION]:  

Here is where we can store and use up to two functions: f(x) and g(x).  The great news is that f(x) and g(x) are no longer limited to the Table, they can be used in other modes such as Calculate.   The equations f(x) and g(x) are retained while switching modes but not retained when the calculator either is turned off or the Input/Output setting is changed.  A missed opportunity for the latter.

A plus is that either f(x) or g(x) can be a composite function.  That is f(x) can contain g(x) or g(x) can contain f(x).  

There are two ways to access the x variable:  its own key [ x ] or the key sequence [ SHIFT ] [ 0 ].  

[book]/[CATALOG]:  This is where all the functions and commands can be accessed.  The menu order of the catalog changes depending on the mode used.  Some submenus include:

Function Analysis:  The calculus functions, that used to be on the keyboard, are now stored in the Function Analysis menu:  derivative, integral, summation, logarithm*, log*, ln* (* also on the keyboard)

Probability:   % (divides the number by 100), factorial, permutation, combination, random number, random integer

Numeric:  Absolute Value, Round Off (round the number to the Fix settings internally)

Angle/Coord/Sexa...:  angle units (degrees, radians, grads, degrees minutes seconds*), polar/rectangular conversions (* also on the keyboard)

Sci Constants:  47 scientific Constants

Unit Conversions

[ three circles ]/[ TOOLS ]:  The TOOLS menu changes dynamically based on the mode.   For example, the Calculate mode will have an Undo function.

[ FORMAT ]:  Instead of the [S<=>D] key, we have the [FORMAT] key, which asks how to change the value:  Standard, Decimal, Improper Fraction, Mixed Fraction,  ENG (Engineering) Notation, Sexagesimal (degrees-minutes-seconds).

In Base mode, the [ FORMAT ] key toggles between the four bases (decimal, hexadecimal, binary, octal).

I did three comparison speed tests between the fx-991CW and fx-991EX  here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cj0Odnv0Mwk

As I understand, the fx-991CW has a faster processor than the previous fx-991EX.

Now let's talk about what is subtracted in this update.  You read this correctly, several features did not make it from the fx-991EX to the fx-991CW:

The  CALC feature where we could type in a formula, press [ CALC ] and have formula evaluation.  I was not able to find the CALC feature on the fx-991CW.

There is no longer the independent memory M, nor the storage arithmetic functions M+ and M-.  I miss this feature the most.  I really wish scientific and graphing calculators in general embrace store arithmetic like Hewlett Packard and Swiss Micros.

There is no longer the ability to use multi-statement expressions, with each expression separated with a colon.  Even when it was available, (1) storing results immediately terminated the expression (forcing the use of Ans and when available, PreAns to make using results in the next part possible), and (2) when replayed, the statement was broken up into separate parts.  

Addendum 

Note (4/12/2023):  I am wrong when I said that storing results in multi-statements on the fx-991EX (not the fx-991CW) is impossible.  We use the equals key ([ALPHA] ( = )), as in this example:

A = 9 : B = 8 * A

Csaba Tizedes uses the multi-statement and CALC feature on the fx-991EX to create an IF-THEN-ELSE structure.  In this video Tizedes uses this structure to solve equations using the Bisection method.  The IF-THEN-ELSE structure tests whether a number is positive or negative.  Please take a look his video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=umxScZL1V6A

Gratitude to Csaba Tizedes, this video is shared with his permission.  

Final Thoughts

Overall, the fx-991CW is pretty solid calculator with a readable screen and a lot of features.  My favorite part of the updated is the ability to use the functions f(x) and g(x) outside of the table function.  I also like the catalog key and the page up/page down key.

I get that Casio is going for a simpler, non-busy keyboard.  However, I prefer a separate ALPHA key, along with a STORE key: it's the most efficient way to store variables.   A consequence of a non-busy keyboard is that a lot of the commands can only be accessed through menus.  The ALPHA key could have freed nine keys for more common shifted keys such as x!, polar/rectangular conversions, etc.   I would have liked to see a couple of customizable keys where we can store commands, which could be the shift of the multiplication and division keys.  The financial calculator FC-200V has two slots to store commands.

The faster processor and the better screen are pluses.  You will still get a lot for the money spent on the fx-991CW. 

Caveat:   However, if you want, need, or require subtracted features described above (CALC feature, independent memory, multi-statement expressions), you are better off buying the former fx-991EX or a fx-115ES Plus 2nd Edition.  

Unfortunately, removing the multi-statement, Casio sapped it's algorithmic power with the fx-991CW, and it needs to come back.  Furthermore, please put integer part, fraction part, and sign functions.   

Eddie

All original content copyright, © 2011-2023.  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. 

Casio fx-991EX Classwiz Tips: Tables and Graphs

Casio fx-991EX Classwiz Tips:  Tables and Graphs

This week I am going to show some things that can be done with the Casio fx-991EX Classwiz.  

Believe it or not, the Classwiz can produce graphs of functions.   But not in the way we are used to.  

Generating Tables and Graphs

To generate a table, press [ MENU ], 9: Table.  The Classwiz will always ask for two functions f(x) and g(x).  The function g(x) can be left blank.

You are asked for:

Start:  minimum x value

End:  maximum x value

Step:  change of x

number of steps =  ceiling((End - Start) / Step)

The maximum number of steps for f(x) alone is 45, it gets reduced to 30 if both f(x) and g(x) are used. 

The table of values are displayed.

While the table is displayed, you can generate a graph by pressing [SHIFT] (QR).  This has the Classwiz generating a QR code.  You will need a QR reader, which you can use the Casio EDU app to read the code.

Once the QR code fits into the camera, you are given a link.  Below are examples of graphs:

I hope this week has been helpful in highlighting some of the features of the Casio Classwiz.   For the students in school, I wish you a happy and successful school year.

The next blog post will be on September 15, 2022.   Also, I am going to talk about HHC 2022 in Nashville.  

Eddie

All original content copyright, © 2011-2022.  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. 

Casio fx-CG 10, fx-CG 20, fx-CG 50 Update to Software Version 3.1

Casio fx-CG 10, fx-CG 20, fx-CG 50 Update to Software Version 3.1

If you want to see my original review of the fx-CG 50, please click here: 

http://edspi31415.blogspot.com/2017/06/casio-fx-cg50-review.html

What’s New with Software Version 3.1

  

Major Graph3D App Update!

Wow!  Casio hit it out of park with their updated 3D Graph mode.

When I first reviewed the Casio fx-CG 50 last June, one of the new features highlighted was the 3D Graph mode.  At the time, the mode was limited to lines, planes, spheres, and cylinders.  A good start, but limited mode. 

Not anymore.  First, the update added cones to the template.

The 3D Graph mode has become an official graphing mode because the mode now has functional graphing in the form of Z(X,Y).

It doesn’t stop there.  The mode also offers parametric graphing in the form of (X(S,T), Y(S,T), Z(S,T)).  This might be my favorite part of the Graph 3D app.

Finally, you can rotate Y(X) functions either by X or Y axis, to give a really neat visualization of functions.

The update adds analysis for planes and lines.  Analysis includes intersection points and relational type analysis (intersection vs. orthogonal vs. rotational vs. parallel, etc.)

QR Codes Added to the Catalog

QR (Quick Response) codes, those small square bar codes that people scan with their smartphones to connect to certain webpages, have been added to most of the commands in the Catalog.  Any QR reader should do.  A successful reading of the bar code leads to Casio’s online manual. 

Count on Casio continuing the use of QR codes, in both graphing and non-graphing models.  Recall that the fx-991 EX Classwiz has QR codes to display stat plots and screen shots through Casio’s Casio EDU+ software and app. 

Yes, QR codes generated by the catalog can be read by the Casio EDU+ app. 

For more details, click here:

https://edu.casio.com/products/graphic/fxcg50/

Wish List

I wish in the next update, Casio increases the number of colors to display text and graphs, currently there are still seven (black, blue, red, magenta, green, cyan, and yellow).  At least put an RGB function. 

I think a differential equation graph mode or type would fit well with this series, even if it is just in the form of y’ = f(x,y,constants) and the Runge Kutta 4th order method is used. 

I suspect the next hardware of this series will have memory increased to at least 256MB or more.   This series of calculators deserves to have such increase because of all the great things this series offers!

Download Links

Software Update: https://edu.casio.com/download_service/en/download/index.html

Please keep in mind you will need to install the Graph3D for the fx-CG 10 and fx-CG 20 Add-In separately.  The Graph3D already comes with the fx-CG 50.

Manual:  http://support.casio.com/storage/en/manual/pdf/EN/004/fx-CG50_Soft_v310_EN.pdf

The era of third-dimensional graphing is here to stay!

Eddie

This blog is property of Edward Shore, 2017.

Casio fx-991EX Classwiz Review

Casio fx-991EX Classwiz Review

Casio FX-991EX 

The next incarnation of the fx-991 line of Casio calculators is the fx-991 EX. 

Cost:  Approximately $20 - $21 USD

Availability:  Online. 

Power:  Solar + 1 Battery LR 44

The general features of the fx-991 EX Classwiz

* Calculation Mode:  A choice of either linear or textbook input/output

* Prime Factorization of integers

* Calculus functions include:  numeric derivative, definite integrals, summation

* Solver

* Complex numbers (arithmetic, polar/rectangular conversions only).  The [ENG] key works as the imaginary unit (i, shift for angle).

* Base calculations:  Binary, Octal, Decimal, Hexadecimal; with the usual logic operations and, or, not (1’s compliment), xor, xnor, neg (2’s compliment).  In binary mode, 32 bits are displayed, with the left most bit as the sign bit (0 for positive, 1 for negative).  This is double the 16 bits of previous models. 

*  Up to 4 x 4 linear systems and 4^th order polynomials can be solved through the Equation Mode (up from 3 x 3 and 3^rd order from previous Casio models, respectively).

* Statistics regression models include linear, quadratic, logarithmic, exponential, power (a*b^x and a*x^b), and inverse.  (see the QR section later)

* Tables of two functions, f(x) and g(x), of which functions can be graphed (see the QR section later).

* Distribution Mode:  Normal curve (and inverse), binomial, Poisson. 

* Other modes include inequality testing, basic vector mode, and ratio solving mode.

* 10 variables (A, B, C, D, E, F, x, y, M), 47 constants, and conversions. 

   

There are four features that make the fx-991 EX Classwiz stand out: 

* A fast processor, which reduce waiting time for long calculations.  In the few short tests I did, I am impressed.

The screen

* The screen resembles the Casio Prizm graphing calculator screen.  According to Casio, the screen has a 192 x 63 pixel resolution.  Even the mode menu represents a matrix of graphic icons similar to the Casio graphing calculator counterparts.

The fx-991EX Classwiz Menu

* Spreadsheet

* The ability to capture screen shots and get graphs of functions and statistics with the QR codes.

I will talk about the Spreadsheet and QR Codes in later sections.

Notes

Vs. Canon F-792GA

* The Canon F-792SGA’s binary mode also has 32 bits.  To cycle through bits (8 at a time), press [Shift] [ ln ] (<Blk).   The nice thing about the Casio fx-991EX Classwiz is that all 32 bits are displayed at once!

* Similarly, Casio (fx-991EX Classwiz) now joins Canon (F-792SGA) in the order of which linear systems and polynomials can be solved (4).   

* Also, like the F-792SGA, the fx-991EX Classwiz has an Options button that organizes many functions that are not on the keyboard. (Canon has [Apps], Casio has [OPTN])

They Didn’t Make It

* The functions that did not make it from the fx-115 ES Plus to the fx-991EX Classwiz:  GCD, LCM, Int (integer part), Intg (integer part), and product (Π).

The Keyboard of the fx-991EX Classwiz

* The fx-991EX Classwiz has a dedicated [ x ] key, eliminating the need to press [ ALPHA ], [ ) ] (x). 

* The Store and Recall have been switched.  Previously, recall was primary function and store was the shifted function.  For the fx-991EX Classwiz, the store is the primary function and recall is the shifted function. 

The fx-991EX Classwiz has two exciting firsts for solar scientific calculators:  Spreadsheet and Graphing (via QR codes read through your smart phone/iPod Touch/tablets)

Spreadsheet

Spreadsheet of the fx-991EX Classwiz

The spreadsheet is a basic spreadsheet that contains 225 cells (45 rows and 5 columns).  While the ability to name cells and ranges are not present (hopefully the next version will provide such ability), classical spreadsheet analysis is present: Sum, Minimum, Maximum, Average (Mean), and filling cells with a certain value.  We also have the option of using relative or absolute cell references.   In spreadsheet mode, pretty much every function is accessed through the Option menu.   The fx-991 EX Classwiz allocates 1,700 bytes for the spreadsheet function (I think this is exclusive memory set aside for this mode).

QR Codes:  Displaying Results and Graphs

 

QR demonstration

One of my dream capabilities is for a solar calculator with that can graph functions.   The fx-991 EX Classwiz takes a step towards that.  While the calculator does not display graphs itself, it can send information to a smart phone app to display graphs. 

What is needed is a Casio EDU+ app, which is available for the iOS and Android.   Your device needs to be connected to the internet. 

How to use to generate QR code:

1.  Get to the screen you want to capture.  For graphs, capture a table from Table mode or Statistics mode.

2. Press [SHIFT] [OPTN] (QR).  A QR code (a box) is generated.

3. On your device, run the Casio EDU+ app and choose QR code.  You are prompted on the app to point the camera at the calculator.  Adjust the calculator and/or app as necessary.  It may require patience and practice.

4. At success, you will be notified that by the app.  The results will be shown on the device’s browser.   The website is run by Casio and ke!san.  (www.casio.com). 

Note:  The Start and End represents the Xmin and Xmax, respectively of the graph.  Choose an appropriate Step.  For a wide domain, choose a large Step, as the Table mode is limited to display 45 rows (for one function) or 30 rows (for two functions).

Results can be emailed, saved, or put into Latex code. 

Final Thoughts

I am excited in the direction Casio is going with their scientific calculator line.  Is it worth getting?  Sure, especially if you like the functions that the fx-991EX Classwiz has to offer.  I am happy with the introductory spreadsheet mode, crisp display, and the fast processor.  The QR connects the calculator to the internet service where results can be graphed and communicated. 

Casio does a great job of offering a lot of capabilities for a low price.

Eddie

This blog is property of Edward Shore.  2015.