Re: 15c LE sqr and sqrt problems Message #39 Posted by robert rozee on 17 Sept 2011, 10:43 a.m., in response to message #35 by Paul Gaster
given the back labels are likely shuffled semi-randomly (put on in no particular order) it is no surprise that the unit's limited edition number appears between closely numbered ok units.
my own manufacturing experience is with firmware being loaded right at the end of the production line just before units are boxed up for shipping (CB430 winCE boxes loaded with o/s and machine control software). in that way completed units can be stockpiled in the factory and the absolute latest firmware added just before they go out the door. in the case of HP calculators, this would mean final testing and loading firmware would be combined into a single step on a single jig.
so it could be a whole run of calculators have had the wrong firmware loaded. i'd certainly like to see photos of the unit in question to verify:
- back label markings (12c or 15c)
- keyboard escutcheon (12c or 15c)
- key labelling (12c or 15c)
- badge next to LCD (12c or 15c)
including two different firmwares, that gives 32 possible assembly combinations. if the unit in question has mismatched physical components (like 12c key labelling and 15c escutcheon) then it COULD be a rare collectable unit indeed.
btw, i must ask anyone at HP who is listening: how many times in the past has HP shipped a calculator with the firmware or PCBs or ROMs for a different model fitted? i'm picking this instance is probably the absolute FIRST...
Edited: 17 Sept 2011, 11:16 a.m.
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