Re: HP 48G vs HP 50G Message #17 Posted by Marnus Malan (RSA) on 8 Sept 2009, 7:18 a.m., in response to message #1 by Mendl Lategan
Hello Mendl,
At which uni / tech are you studying? I own the 48S, 48G+, 50G and a few aother calculators. I started with a 42s and then a 49G. People who have problems with the layout of the 50g started with the 48 series. If you are used to a 48, keep using it, otherwise get used to the 50g and a 48 will feel like a dinosaur. I would recommend the 50g, primarily for the larger screen, the faster execution times AND the ability to power from USB when working at your desk as well as the SD expasion ability. If you use any GX you are stuck regarding memory. Expansion cards for the GX is expensive and scarce. I use my 50g on a daily basis, carry it with me to construction sites and have put it through intense use and it still looks as new - no wear on the keys and I am happy with it. The 48 might be robust but it is just too slow and fiddly with the pre-historic serial connection.
If your calc is allowed in exams the execution time on large matrix, fem and beam statics calculations become invaluable. If it is not allowed, get a 42s. It is also not allowed but it looks innocent enough that nobody notices.
on gumtree you can purchase an as new 50g for R1200 (new is R1800)or order from Eric at hpcalc.org (which I did).
The documentation of the 48 is usefull to understand the workings of the 50g.
Which year are you now? Come and see me, I need engineers and if your profile suits our company I can offer a bursary.
Regards
Marnus
Edit: DONT buy the TI, I have never seen anybody in the engineering industry or at any uni that uses a TI in SA. SA engineers stick to the HP's and that can not be without a reason...
Edited: 8 Sept 2009, 7:23 a.m.
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