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(More customer reviews)In my whole life I have owned ten calculators made by five different manufacturers, with TI accounting for four of them. I enjoy discussing the pros and cons of the various models with my friends and I have come to realize that choosing a programmable calculator is a very personal, even subjective, matter. That is why I respect different opinions about calculators, even if I do not fully agree with them. Sometimes the choice of a calculator boils down to a much-needed feature. This is true in my present case. My favourite calculator so far is the Casio Algebra FX 2.0, and that choice hinges on one vital feature: the ability to process matrices containing complex elements. Whereas some other calculators can handle matrices, they usually handle only those containing real elements. As any electrical engineer (like myself) can tell you, this seemingly small difference is critical. Anyone who does circuit analysis with inductive or capacitive components will encounter matrices and simultaneous equations containing complex elements. Complex matrices take ten times as long as real matrices to calculate, and the calculation is very error prone. It is precisely here that many textbooks (e.g. Hughes Electrical Technology) make numerous calculation errors. It is so easy to overlook the simple fact that the square of i is minus one, and when you make that one mistake, it ripples through the whole matrix. As far as I know, the Casio Algebra FX 2.0 is the lowest cost calculator that can handle complex matrices and complex simultaneous equations. By comparison, the TI-83 (which costs the same) can only do real matrices. The TI-86, on the other hand, can do complex matrices, but it is more expensive.... I have examined the other features of the Casio FX 2.0, and have been impressed by their depth. As to its ergonomics, the keys have a nice feel, the LCD is sharp and clear, the plastic case is solid, and the calculator does not wobble at all. My only complaint is that the PC link cable is an optional extra (a real letdown).
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Casio Algebra FX 2.0 Graphing CalculatorFor students in any field, but especially math and sciences, Casio's FX 2.0 algebra graphing calculator is a problem-solving tool with features for storing, graphing, and analysis using the computer algebra systems, programming, statistical functions, and many other features.
The large, readable display exhibits 8 lines and 21 characters in black and white with icon and pull-up menus. You can factor/expand and simplify simultaneous equations with a maximum of 30 orders. The FX 2.0 analyzes up to 10 matrices combined with data storage in lists containing up to 999 elements per list. It solves equations interactively for different variables and calculates mean/median and sum, distribution, mode results and regression coefficient.
Readily accessible functions from basic math include random numbers, DMS, auto zoom, decimals/fractions, first/second derivatives, integration, complex functions, matrix functions, and base-n calculations. It also performs statistical functions like histograms/broken line, box plots, modified box plots, distribution curve, scatter plot/XY line, med-med line, and linear/quadratic/cubic and quartic regression. Additionally, sinusoidal regression, logistic regression, trace of regression graph, and copy of regression expression are easily accessed features. Program functions incorporate user-defined programs, a search for program name, and a search for program data.
The algebra tutor shows step-by-step solutions or allows the student to manually solve equations. The FX 2.0 includes 128 KB RAM and 768 KB flash ROM. A communication port enables linking to a personal computer, to another FX 2.0, or to a Casio data analysis device. With unlimited history, catalog function, up to 20 function memories, calculation window, clipboard, resume, up to 20 pictures, and three languages (English, Spanish, and French), the FX 2.0 is essential equipment for Algebra 1 and 2 and in physics and engineering courses. It is powered by four AAA alkaline batteries and one lithium battery for backup to preserve memory.
The Casio FX 2.0 comes with a comprehensive guidebook and is supported by a one-year limited warranty. --Barbara Price
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