X-memory Data with the card reader

[4ster]

I've had two "Memory Lost"s in the last few weeks. Both events happened without the "BAT" annunciator showing up. The first time the HP emitted some unusual tones and it threw me off. I kept trying to start it and the display wouldn't come on, just beeping, then the dreaded message. The other one was a surprise too, but no beeping.

In the past, using alkaline batteries, I have run the calculator for a couple of years until the "BAT" appeared then changed the batteries. (It has been lightly used for about a decade.)

There was a slight hint of corrosion on the battery holder's springs. I think that may have been the problem. I cleaned them with electrical contact cleaner (DeOxIt), so far so good. Fortunately the foil contacts look good.