Main Functions of Scientific Calculators
The mathematical functions that characterize good scientific calculators are usually related to slightly advanced levels of calculation, here you can find some examples:
- Fractions
- Square root and powers of integer and fractional exponent
- Logarithms
- Trigonometric functions
- Scientific notation
- Tables with variables
- Statistics functions
- Unit Conversion
- Include some scientific constants
- More complex mathematical functions
- Complex numbers
- Inverse hyperbolic functions and exponential functions
- Equations and systems
- Matrices
- Spreadsheet
- Integrals and derivatives
- Monomials and polynomials calculator
Before choosing a scientific calculator
In order to choose the best scientific calculator for you, you should take into account the following buying guide:
§ What use are you going to give your calculator?
The first thing you should consider is the use you are going to give it and the minimum level of calculation you need. Since, it is not the same to be studying or working in the field of engineering, where complex mathematics is constantly used, than to be studying ESO. It is not necessary to think about it in a very detailed way, because later we will talk about the characteristics of calculators aimed at each audience, you just have to get a minimal idea.
§ How to determine the price you should pay for a calculator?
This factor goes hand in hand with the one we discussed in the previous section, mainly because the calculation complexity of the model will determine the price. And if you want a very powerful graphing calculator, you can find cheap models, but not as cheap as some basic scientific calculator models. Therefore, in the top below, we will show models of all types and prices, including calculators that cost as little as 10 euros and others that reach 300 euros.
Once you have clarified the purpose for which you want to buy the calculator and the maximum cost you want to pay for it, you can start to get an idea about the ideal model for you. For this reason, in the following section we will show you the main components of scientific calculators, so that you can finish distinguishing your priorities.
How to choose the best scientific calculator?
The main key elements to consider when buying a Scientific Calculator are: the numeric keypad, display, memory, software, and power:
Keyboard: scientific calculators usually have many buttons by default and the more complex it is, the more it will have. That’s why, that it is recommended to buy a calculator that has well-labeled buttons or on the contrary, you could get dizzy seeing so many keys.
