HP-71B: 82490A or 82441A

[smp]

(08-27-2015 12:34 AM)rprosperi Wrote:  

(08-26-2015 01:29 PM)smp Wrote:  My question to the group is this: If I were to drop an outrageous sum of money to acquire one of these ROMs, which one should I choose?

Generally speaking, the 41 Translator variant is more rare and as a result, more expensive.

My suggestion is to search for complete HP-71B systems; many such systems have a Forth/Assembler (or 41-Translator) ROM included and often can be bought for less than the price of the standalone ROM listings, which are generally aimed at collectors (as the prices prove).

Also, there were many programs, tips, hints, etc. for HP-71 Forth submitted to the PPC Computer Journal, CHHU and HPX newsletters in the late 80's; by coincidence, I've been researching some of these exact articles recently. A DVD with all those issues (plus a ton more) is available from Jake Schwartz here. Strongly recommended for all fans of classic HP Calculators.

Hi Bob,

Thanks very much for your thoughts.

Since I already have a good working HP-71B, I was not considering acquiring another one. Those that have come up for sale containing some of these special ROMs seem to go for high prices, too, because of folks like me who know what they are looking at and then drive up the bid accordingly. Sigh.

Thanks also for the pointer to that treasure trove of information. I will be looking into that.

smp

UPDATE: Whoo Hoo! I have now made it to become a Member!