DM41X

[kimwood]

My recently ordered DM41X beta unit arrived in Australia today (s/n: 00037). It didn't take too long at all. I also own a SwissMicros DM42 or three plus a number of other SwissMicros calculators including the recently available DM10L collector's edition.

Initial DM41X impressions? Uses same tough metal shell as the DM42 and is sturdy. The display looks to be the same used in the DM42 and is sharp and crisp. The keyboard has been reworked with lower profile keys and feels very nice. The key action is precise with a discernible click. Not too clicky though - and not too stiff. I like the keyboard a lot. That should silence any concerns. The yellow and blue shift keys are a little dull, but do not detract from the overall appearance.

There are three small slots on either side of the keyboard as per the DM42, so I assume that ROM overlays will be available in the future (from third parties?). The keyboard printing, both keys and fascia, is crisp and looks great. I guess that the keys are painted and not two-shot moulded, and may eventually show some wear. I have given my DM42's a lot of work, and can not see any key wear whatsoever, so I am optimistic that the DM41X will have a very long and useful life. Battery life, too early to tell yet, but I have not changed any button batteries on my various SwissMicros calculators since purchase. Assume battery life is long, very long.

As for the actual operation of the calculator, well you all know how an HP41 works. This particular SwissMicros implementation is beautifully done, and I am looking forward to playing with a few ROM images that I have not used previously.

Bottom line? A very nice implementation in brand new hardware. No brittle plastic to worry about. No NOS or printed parts to source on eBay. No messy battery compartments to clean up or battery packs to build. No need to worry about it expiring on me one day with no available replacement. No N-size batteries to find every couple of hundred hours. USB access for file/ROM upload/download. I/R implemented. Fairly priced. I have not detected any downside yet. Well worth considering by enthusiasts.