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Hewlett Packard Calculator Comparison Tool
Your Preferred CurrencyUNITED STATES OF AMERICA (THE)
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Model Count : 153Not Released Models : 1Realistically Collectible Models : 167
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Additional Cosmetic Variants : 16April Fools Jokes : 2
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Display and KeyboardHP-17BHP-19BHP-27SHP-48GXHP-49g+HP-50g (Black)HP-48gII (v2)HP-38GHP-39GHP-39gs1
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Calculator Type (Sci/Fin/Graph)FinancialFinancialScientificGraphingGraphingGraphingGraphingGraphingGraphingGraphing2
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Series Code NamePioneer TRADERClamshell TYCOONPioneer MENTORCharlemagne HAMERCharlemagne AppleF2229AACharlemagne Mid AppleCharlemagne ELSIEKimmiApple3
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Display typeLCDLCDLCDLCDLCDLCDLCDLCDLCDLCD4
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Display format {Chars x Lines (pixels)}2 Line4 Line2 Lines22 x 8 (131 x 64 pixels)131 x 80 pixels131 x 80 pixels22 x 8 (131 x 64 pixels)22 x 8 (131 x 64 pixels)22 x 8 (131 x 64 pixels)22 x 8 (131 x 64 pixels)5
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FIXed number formatYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes6
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SCIentific number format-YesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes7
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ENGineering number format--YesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes8
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STanDard / ALL number formatYesYesYes*YesYesYesYesYesYesYes9
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Alpha messages and promptsYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes10
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Softkeys labeled by mag. card or overlay----------11
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Softkeys labeled by display menusYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes12
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Softkeys with neither labeling system----------13
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Status annunciatorsYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes14
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Redefinable keyboard---YesYesYesYes--Yes15
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Customizable User Menu----YesYesYes--Yes16
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# of digits displayed (internal # of digits)*(10)23x4 (10)22x2 (10)12 (12)12 (15)12 (15)12 (15)12 (10)12 (10)(15)17
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Exponent range (+/-)49949949949949949949949949949918
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Number of Functions2504502502600+2300+2300+2300+600+2600+600+19
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Number of Keys3778374951515147515120
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LogicHP-17BHP-19BHP-27SHP-48GXHP-49g+HP-50g (Black)HP-48gII (v2)HP-38GHP-39GHP-39gs22
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Logic systemAlgebraicAlgebraicAlgebraicRPN, AlgebraicRPN, Algebraic, TextbookRPN, AlgebraicRPN, Algebraic, TextbookAlgebraicAlgebraicAlgebraic23
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Stack levels444*UnlimUnlimUnlimUnlimUnlimited (History)Unlimited (History)-24
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Last xYes*YesYes*YesYesYesYes--Yes25
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Undo---YesYesYesYes---26
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Precedence-*-YesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes27
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ParenthesesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes28
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Storage Addition (STO +)YesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes29
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Storage Arithmetic (STO +, −, ×, ÷)YesYesYesYesYesYesYes--Yes30
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Storage Exponentiation (STO ^)YesYesYes-------31
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Recall Arithmetic-Yes-------Yes32
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Named variables-Yes-YesYesYesYes--Yes33
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Multiple data types---YesYesYesYesYesYesYes34
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Directories---YesYesYesYes---35
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Traditional Enter key op (Yes - RPN, No - eRPN)*---NoNoNoNo---36
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MathHP-17BHP-19BHP-27SHP-48GXHP-49g+HP-50g (Black)HP-48gII (v2)HP-38GHP-39GHP-39gs38
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+, −, ×, ÷Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes YesYesYes 39
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1/xYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes40
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YesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes41
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x2YesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes42
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LOG xYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes43
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10xYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes44
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LN xYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes45
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exYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes46
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yxYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes47
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πYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes48
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%YesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes49
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% changeYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes50
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INTeger truncation and ABSolute value-YesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes51
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Trigonometric functions (SIN, COS etc.)-YesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes52
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Hyperbolic trig. (SINH, COSH etc.)-YesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes53
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# of trig. modes (degrees, radians, grads)-323333YesYes354
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Advanced MathHP-17BHP-19BHP-27SHP-48GXHP-49g+HP-50g (Black)HP-48gII (v2)HP-38GHP-39GHP-39gs56
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Solver / root finderYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes57
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Numeric integration---YesYesYesYesYesYesYes58
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Complex numbers---YesYesYesYesYesYesYes59
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Matrix operations---YesYesYesYesYesYesYes60
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Matrix writer---YesYesYesYesYesYesYes61
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Equation writer---YesYesYesYesYesYesYes62
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Symbolic operations (CAS)---YesYesYesYes-(with 40G firmware)-63
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Fractions---Yes*YesYesYesYesYesYes64
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Plotting and graphics (display)-Yes*-YesYesYesYesYesYesYes65
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Plotting and graphics (printer / plotter)-Yes*-OptionOptionOptionOptionOptionOptionOption66
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Equation List---YesYes *Yes *Yes *-- (Applets)Yes67
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Long exact number support---YesYesYesYesYes(with 40G firmware)Yes68
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StatisticalHP-17BHP-19BHP-27SHP-48GXHP-49g+HP-50g (Black)HP-48gII (v2)HP-38GHP-39GHP-39gs70
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Mean, standard deviation (# of variables)112MultipleMultipleMultipleMultiple22271
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Σ of n, x, x2YesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes72
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Σ of n, x, x2, yYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes73
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Σ of n, x, x2, y, xyYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes74
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Σ of n, x, x2, y, y2, xyYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes75
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Σ of listsYesYesYesYesYesYesYes--Yes76
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Random number generator-YesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes77
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Linear regression, estimateYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes78
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Curve FittingYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes79
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Correlation CoefficientYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes80
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Normal Distribution-Yes-YesYesYesYesYesYesYes81
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FactorialYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes82
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Gamma x! -ve Numbers---YesYesYesYes---83
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Combinations and permutations-YesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes84
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Scientific and TimeHP-17BHP-19BHP-27SHP-48GXHP-49g+HP-50g (Black)HP-48gII (v2)HP-38GHP-39GHP-39gs86
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Polar / rectangular conversions-YesYesYesYesYesYes--Yes87
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Base conversions (2, 8, 10, 16)--YesYesYesYesYes---88
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Arithmetic in bases 2, 8 and 16--YesYesYesYesYes---89
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Bit operations (AND, OR, XOR, ...)-Yes-YesYesYesYes---90
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Selectable word size (1-64 bits)---YesYesYesYes---91
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Selectable complement mode----------92
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Decimal hrs / hrs.min.sec. conversions-YesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes-93
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Hrs.min.sec arithmetic-Yes-YesYesYesYes---94
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Time of day clockYesYesYesYesYesYesYes---95
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Timer &| (Auto Off)---YesYesYesYes- (Yes)- (Yes)- (Yes)96
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Dynamic calculations (timer × rate)----------97
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AlarmsYesYesYesYesYesYesYes---98
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Unit ConversionsHP-17BHP-19BHP-27SHP-48GXHP-49g+HP-50g (Black)HP-48gII (v2)HP-38GHP-39GHP-39gs100
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Centimeters / inches-Yes-YesYesYesYes---101
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Millimeters / inches-Yes--YesYesYes---102
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Meters / feet-Yes-YesYesYesYes---103
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Kilograms / pounds (mass)-Yes-YesYesYesYes---104
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Newtons / pounds (force)---YesYesYesYes---105
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British thermal units / joules---YesYesYesYes---106
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Liters / gallons-Yes-YesYesYesYes---107
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° Celsius / ° Fahrenheit-Yes-YesYesYesYes---108
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Other-Yes-YesYesYesYes---109
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User-defined units---YesYesYesYes---110
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Physics Constants---Yes (40)Yes (40)*Yes (40)*Yes (40)*--Yes (29)111
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Time Value of MoneyHP-17BHP-19BHP-27SHP-48GXHP-49g+HP-50g (Black)HP-48gII (v2)HP-38GHP-39GHP-39gs113
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Number of payments (n)YesYesYesOptionYesYesYes--Yes114
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Interest rate (i)YesYesYesOptionYesYesYes--Yes115
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Present Value (PV)YesYesYesOptionYesYesYes--Yes116
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Payment (PMT)YesYesYesOptionYesYesYes--Yes117
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Future Value (FV)YesYesYesOptionYesYesYes--Yes118
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Cash Flow AnalysisHP-17BHP-19BHP-27SHP-48GXHP-49g+HP-50g (Black)HP-48gII (v2)HP-38GHP-39GHP-39gs120
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Net present value (NPV)YesYes-OptionOptionOptionOption--Yes121
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Internal rate of return (IRR)YesYes-OptionOptionOptionOption--Yes122
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AmortizationHP-17BHP-19BHP-27SHP-48GXHP-49g+HP-50g (Black)HP-48gII (v2)HP-38GHP-39GHP-39gs124
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Accumulated Interest (ACC INT)YesYesYesOptionYesYesYes--Yes125
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Balance (BAL)YesYesYesOptionYesYesYes--Yes126
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DepreciationHP-17BHP-19BHP-27SHP-48GXHP-49g+HP-50g (Black)HP-48gII (v2)HP-38GHP-39GHP-39gs128
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Straight line (SL)YesYes-OptionOptionOptionOption---129
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Sum of the years digits (SOYD)YesYes-OptionOptionOptionOption---130
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Declining balance (DB)YesYes-OptionOptionOptionOption---131
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Bonds and calendar functionsHP-17BHP-19BHP-27SHP-48GXHP-49g+HP-50g (Black)HP-48gII (v2)HP-38GHP-39GHP-39gs133
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Bond priceYesYes-OptionOptionOptionOption---134
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Bond yieldYesYes-OptionOptionOptionOption---135
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Date arithmetic / calendar functionsYesYesYesYesYesYesYes---136
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Black-Scholes (Included / Prgm for financial calcs*)Solver (2,500 bytes)Solver (2,500 bytes)Solver (2,500 bytes)Bringslid Business Pac 1------137
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Business FinanceHP-17BHP-19BHP-27SHP-48GXHP-49g+HP-50g (Black)HP-48gII (v2)HP-38GHP-39GHP-39gs139
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Margin Calculation----------140
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Markup Calculation----------141
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Sales Pricing / Discounting----------142
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Memory and ProgrammingHP-17BHP-19BHP-27SHP-48GXHP-49g+HP-50g (Black)HP-48gII (v2)HP-38GHP-39GHP-39gs144
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Programming language(s) / - Not Programmable--*-RPLRPL / AssemblyRPL / AssemblyRPL / AssemblyAlgebraic RPLHP Basic / SYS RPL transHP Basic145
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RAM / Max # of variables or registers6.7 KB / 10 registers6600 Bytes / 64 KB ROM6.7 KB / 10 registers128 KB512 KB512 KB256 KB32 KB27 variables27 variables146
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Max # of program steps---UnlimUnlimUnlimUnlimUnlim200 KB200 KB147
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RAM / Max vars or regs with full optional RAM---4252 KB------148
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Max # of prog steps with full optional RAM----------149
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Merged program steps / Tokenised commands---YesYesYesYesYesYesYes150
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Manual register / program memory allocation----------151
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Automatic register / program memory allocation---YesYesYesYesYesYesYes152
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Overlapped register and program memory---YesYesYesYesYesYesYes153
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Continuous memoryYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes154
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Flags---128128128256---155
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Conditional tests---ManyManyManyManyYesYesYes156
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Subroutine levels---UnlimUnlimUnlimUnlimYesYesYes157
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Indexed looping (increment by +/- 1, end at 0)---YesYesYesYesYesYesYes158
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Indexed looping (choice of increment and end)---YesYesYesYesYesYesYes159
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Multiple index / loop registers---YesYesYesYesYesYesYes160
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Line number addressing----------161
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Branching by relative line number----------162
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Global program label addressing---YesYesYesYes---163
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Local program label addressing---YesYesYesYes---164
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Indirect / computed addressing and control---YesYesYesYes---165
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Multiple indirection registers---YesYesYesYes---166
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Pause---YesYesYesYes---167
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Alpha messages and prompts in programs---YesYesYesYesYesYesYes168
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Alpha program listings---OptionOptionOptionOptionYesYesYes169
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Alpha string manipulation---YesYesYesYes---170
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Program step insert / delete---YesYesYesYes---171
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I/O and Expansion FeaturesHP-17BHP-19BHP-27SHP-48GXHP-49g+HP-50g (Black)HP-48gII (v2)HP-38GHP-39GHP-39gs173
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ROM modules---Yes------174
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RAM modules or expansion option---Yes------175
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General expansion slots / connector----------176
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Magnetic card reader/writer----------177
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Tape drive----------178
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Disk drive---Option------179
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Upgradeable firmware----YesYesYes--Yes180
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Optical wand----------181
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Serial port / USB---Yes (RS232 4-pin)Yes (no serial port)Yes (RS232 4-pin)Yes*YesYesYes182
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Infrared input---YesYesYesYesYesYesYes183
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Infrared outputYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes184
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Communication Protocol(s)IrDAIrDAIrDAKermit (protocol), IrDA, XmodemKermit (protocol), IrDA, XmodemKermit (protocol), IrDA, XmodemKermit (protocol), IrDA, XmodemHP SIR, IrDAIrDAKermit (protocol), IrDA, Xmodem185
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PrinterOptionOptionOptionOptionOptionOptionOptionOptionOptionOption186
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Other method of program exchange----YesYes----187
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Other storage----SD CardSD Card----188
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ProcessorHP-17BHP-19BHP-27SHP-48GXHP-49g+HP-50g (Black)HP-48gII (v2)HP-38GHP-39GHP-39gs190
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CPUSaturnSaturnSaturnSaturnARM9ARM9ARM9SaturnSaturnARM191
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Clock Frequency1 MHz1 MHz1 MHz3.68 to 4 MHz75 MHz75 MHz48 MHz4 MHz4 MHz75 MHz192
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Code NameLewisLewisLewisYorkeARM920TARM920TARM920TYorkeYorkeS3C2410X193
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Onboard ROM64 KB64 KB64 KB512 KB2 MB2 MB512 KB512 KB1 MB1 MB194
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Onboard RAM8 KB6.6 KB8 KB128 KB512 KB512 KB256 KB32 KB256 KB256 KB195
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Memory Clock Frequency2 MHz196
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User Memory197
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GeneralHP-17BHP-19BHP-27SHP-48GXHP-49g+HP-50g (Black)HP-48gII (v2)HP-38GHP-39GHP-39gs199
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SoundsYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYesYes200
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Self testYesYes-YesYesYesYes---201
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Languages-English, German, French, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish*--English, French, SpanishEnglish, French, SpanishEnglish, French, SpanishROM Dependant. Region of purchaseROM Dependant. Region of purchase-202
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Soft Case &/ Hard case HardHardSoftSoftSoftSoftHardSoftHardHard203
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Additional Features----------204
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Batteries3 x SR/LR443 x N Cells3 x SR/LR443 x AAA3 x AAA, 1 x CR20324 x AAA, 1 x CR20324 x AAA & 1 x CR20323 x AAA3 x AAA4 x AAA, 1 x CR2032, USB205
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Length mm (inches)149 mm (5.87")165 mm (6.50")149 mm (5.87")180 mm (7.09")184 mm (7.24")184 mm (7.24")184 mm (7.24")180 mm (7.09")187 mm (7.36")187 mm (7.36")206
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Width mm (inches)80 mm (3.15")191 mm (7.52")80 mm (3.15")81 mm (3.19")87 mm (3.43")87 mm (3.43")87 mm (3.43")81 mm (3.19")89 mm (3.50")94 mm (3.70")207
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Height mm (inches)15 mm (0.59")13 mm (0.51")15 mm (0.59")28 mm (1.10")24 mm (0.94")24 mm (0.94")24 mm (0.94")19 mm (0.75")28 mm (1.10")31 mm (1.22")208
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Weight g (oz)143 g (5.04 oz)227 g (8.01 oz)143 g (5.04 oz)229 g (8.08 oz)220 g (7.76 oz)220 g (7.76 oz)220 g (7.76 oz)264 g (9.31 oz)264 g (9.31 oz)249 g (8.78 oz)209
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Manufacturing Location(s)USA, SingaporeUSAUSA, SingaporeSingapore, IndonesiaChinaChinaChinaSingapore, IndonesiaIndonesia, ChinaChina210
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Year of introduction04/01/198804/01/198804/01/198801/06/199328/10/200301/07/200601/06/200706/04/199514/04/200001/07/200629/07/1900
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Year ceased production31/01/199001/09/199031/12/199330/05/200330/09/200620152008200330/05/2003201230/07/1900
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Original Introduction RRP$110 USD$175 USD$110 USD$350 USD$175.99 USD$150 USD$130 USD$109 USD$79.99 USD$79.99 USD31/07/1900
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Simulation/Emulation AvailableWinWinWindows, Mac, Linux, iOS and Android.Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS and Android.Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS and Android.Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS and Android.214
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PredecessorHP-18CHP-18CHP-11CHP-48SXHP-49GHP-49g+HP-48G+New LineHP-38GHP-39g+02/08/1900
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SuccessorHP-17BIIHP-19BIIHP-22S / HP-32SHP49GHP-50GHP Prime G1HP-50GHP-39G, HP-40GHP-39g+HP-40gs, HP-39gII03/08/1900
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Additional cosmetic Variants2; one with recessed LCD display that reduces glare and increases contrast.04/08/1900
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Permitted Exam Use USASee detail on Data SheetSee detail on Data SheetSee detail on Data SheetSee detail on Data SheetSee detail on Data SheetSee detail on Data SheetSee detail on Data Sheet218
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Permitted Exam Use Rest of the worldSee detail on Data SheetSee detail on Data SheetSee detail on Data SheetSee detail on Data SheetSee detail on Data SheetSee detail on Data SheetSee detail on Data SheetSee detail on Data SheetSee detail on Data SheetSee detail on Data Sheet06/08/1900
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Latest FirmwareVersion BBVersion BVersion RVersion 2.15Version 2.15Version 2.08Version 2.22220
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DocumentationHP-17BHP-19BHP-27SHP-48GXHP-49g+HP-50g (Black)HP-48gII (v2)HP-38GHP-39GHP-39gs222
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Brochure Link / DatasheetHP-48GX Datasheet (Spanish)HP-49g+ DatasheetHP-50g (Black) DatasheetHP-48gII Data Sheet V2HP-38G DatasheetHP-39gs Datasheet223
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Quick Start Guide LinkHP-48G Series Quick Start GuideHP-50g Quick Start GuideHP-39G/HP-40G Quick Start GuideHP-39G/HP-40G Quick Start Guide224
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User Manual LinkHP-48G Series User's GuideHP-49g+ User's GuideHP-50g User's GuideHP-48gII User's GuideHP-38G User's GuideHP-39G/HP-40G User's GuideHP-39gs User's Guide225
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Owner Manual LinkHP-17B Owner's ManualHP-19B Owner's ManualHP-27S Owner's ManualHP-48G Series User's GuideHP-49g+ User's ManualHP-50g User's ManualHP-48gII User's Manual226
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HP Museum.org Link hpmuseum.orgHP-17BHP-27S227
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Calculator-Org Link Calculator.orgHewlett Packard HP-17BHewlett Packard HP-19BHewlett Packard HP-27SHewlett Packard HP-48GXHewlett Packard HP-49G+Hewlett Packard HP-50gHewlett Packard HP-48gIIHewlett Packard HP-38GHewlett Packard HP-39GHewlett Packard HP-39gs228
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Purchase Link229
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Wikipedia LinkHP-17B - WikipediaHP-19B - WikipediaHP-27S - WikipediaHP-48 series - WikipediaHP-49/HP-50 series - WikipediaHP-49/HP-50 series - WikipediaHP-49/HP-50 series - WikipediaHP-38G - WikipediaHP-39/HP-40 series - Wikipedia230
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NotesHP-17BHP-19BHP-27SHP-48GXHP-49g+HP-50g (Black)HP-48gII (v2)HP-38GHP-39GHP-39gs1
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General NotesGeneral notes:
Features in optional ROMs are listed as Option.
Features in HP mag card or tape Application Pacs are listed as +.
Other software is not included.

"-" denotes either no or unable to be located. Many models have limited information available and some are prototypes with no publications to reference.

Unlim. means limited only by available memory.

"# of digits displayed (internal # of digits)" Internal # of digits refers to the number of mantissa digits that are stored in the stack, internal CPU and storage registers. Note that some operations may *temporarily* use more digits internally during calculations as guard digits. These extra digits are discarded (rounded up) when the result is stored in a register.

"Traditional Enter key operation" A Yes indicates that the Enter key duplicates a new number entered onto the X and Y stack levels. This is the way traditional RPN HP calculators worked. A No indicates that the ENTER key only places a new number entered onto the lowest level of the stack. This alternative "Entry RPN" or "eRPN" entry method is typical of HP RPL models such as the HP 28/48/49/50 series.

Black Scholes only noted Inc/Prgm for Financial models, other models with programmable features and sufficent memory should be able to use one of the various programs referenced. Ref DataFile V22N3 with follow up in V23N3 improvement and discussion.

Steve Simpkin's original work links:
- HP Plus RPN Calculator Comparison Table (Excel) https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1O82oYq6zW09Us3kpUQEEXlh3_nS3M8b9/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=106636599262622618548&rtpof=true&sd=true
- HP Plus RPN Calculator Comparison Table (PDF) https://drive.google.com/file/d/1CNxktf9obofCWqHE_7H1cv7vUCVRQmMO/view?usp=sharing

Note: There have been changes to permitted calculators. See additional notes in the reference links tab. Widespread change in the USA for most from August 2025, The UK appears to be Casio focused, and with few exceptions no HP calculators in New Zealand have been authorised for exams. Otherwise permitted for exam use noted from HP Published Data Sheets, please refer to relevant data sheet for trademark rights and details..

LR vs AG batteries, the LR44 and AG13 referenced for many calculators are interchangable, with the LR44 being better suited ot warmer climates and the AG13 to cooler climates. Somewhat explaining why I haven't seen the AG13 around in New Zealand/Australia and the LR44 prevails. Where one is noted the other is an alternative.

The owners manuals for most HP calculators are available at: https://literature.hpcalc.org/
Built on the existing work of Steve Simpkin with the creation of the initial tables and tools linked.
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Specific NotesHP-17B notes: Had functions for getting sum xy etc. based on the summation list. LAST extracted number from history stack to the calculator line.
The calculator didn't have precedence but the solver did.

To start the self test, with the calculator on, press and hold the fourth menu key from the left and press the ON/CLR key.
Pressing the + key will step through a series of tests (including printing a copyright) until you see KBD 01.
Then you must press each key from the upper left from left to right and then down until you see KBD OK.
Pressing + again displays OK-17B-E. If there is a problem, you will see a FAIL message.
To exit the test, at any point, press and hold the third menu key and then press the ON/C key.
Instead of stepping through the general tests, you can start some specific self tests after pressing LOG+ON/EXIT by pressing
- 1st Menu key: SPD
- 2nd menu key: Beep
- 3rd menu key: DISP
- 4th menu key: ROM
- 5th menu key: DRAM
- 6th menu key: URAM
- RCL: ESD (electro-static discharge test?)
- STO: KBD
- %: Displays the OK message
- A continuous test (minus the keyboard test) can be started by holding 1/x and pressing ON/C.
- Exit this test in the same way as the individual test.

This had the same hardware as the HP-27S released at the same time.
HP-19B Notes: Successor to HP-18C with folding case. Plotting & Graphing for statistical histogram possible. Language not specified in the manual, assuming this is the same as the HP-19BII I referenced.HP-27S notes: Algebraic logic with a "history stack". LAST retrieved value above on stack.

To start the self test, with the calculator on, press and hold the fourth menu key (LN) and press the ON/CLR key.
Pressing any key will step through a series of tests (including printing a copyright) until you see KBD.
Then you must press each key from the upper left from left to right and then down until you see KBD OK.
After another key, you'll see OK-27S-E. If there is a problem, you will see a FAIL message.
To exit the test, at any point, press and hold the third menu key (ex) key and then press the ON/CLR key.
A continuous test (minus the keyboard test) can be started by holding the firth menu key (yx)and pressing ON/C. Exit this test in the same way as the individual test.
This was the same hardware as the HP-17B released at the same time.
There were rumours of a HP-27SII prototype with RPN similar to the 17BII & 19BII but was never released.
HP-48GX Notes: Upgrade to the successful HP-48SX, hardware similar with expansion slots for library functions and memory.
Like the HP-48G double the processor speed and memory of the HP-48S/SX series with the HP-48GX also getting a substanital increase in user memory.
Without expansion or increased user memory, like the HP-48S/SX before, functionally the same as the HP-48G.

Because the screen is only 131 pixels wide, it technically cannot display 22 full characters in the standard font. It displays 21 full characters and cuts off the very last pixel column of the 22nd character.
- This is why many users recall it as "22 characters," even though physically it falls 1 pixel short of supporting that perfectly.
The HP 48 series supported a "Mini" font (4 pixels wide x 6 pixels high), which allowed for:
- 33 Characters per line (131 \div 4 \approx 32.75).
- 10 Lines of text (64 \div 6 \approx 10.6).
Some expansion cards were in other languages.
HP-49G+ notes: Functionally similar to the HP-48gII and HP-50G systems. The HP48gII lacking the speed and SD Card expansion of the HP-49G+ and HP-50g. Most user guides and manuals are combined for the three models. Essentially the HP49G+ and HP-50G's are the same internally, but lacking the serial port the HP50g has.
* Latest firmware for equation library and physical constants
HP-50g notes: Functionally similar to the HP-48gII and HP-49G+ systems. The HP48gII lacking the speed and SD Card expansion of the HP-50g and HP-49G+. Most user guides and manuals are combined for the three models. Essentially the HP49G+ and HP-50G's are the same internally with the HP49g+ lacking the serial port added for the HP50g. This was primarily done to enable connection to external equipment needed by surveyors and engineers. The keys on the HP-50g returned to the hinged keys typically seen with HP's
* Latest firmware for equation library and physical constants
HP-48gII notes: USB (Mini-B), IrDA, 1×4-pin 3.3 V TTL serial (RS-232 via active converter)
Functionally similar to the HP-49G+ and HP-50G systems. Lacking the speed and SD Card expansion of the later models. Most user guides and manuals are combined for the three models.
The fundamental hardware for the three models appears to me similar, with the HP49gII having the display controller capability of the HP-49g+ and HP-50g but produced with the prior HP-48 display format of 131 x 64 pixels.

Because the screen is only 131 pixels wide, it technically cannot display 22 full characters in the standard font. It displays 21 full characters and cuts off the very last pixel column of the 22nd character.
- This is why many users recall it as "22 characters," even though physically it falls 1 pixel short of supporting that perfectly.

The HP 48 series supported a "Mini" font (4 pixels wide x 6 pixels high), which allowed for:
- 33 Characters per line (131 \div 4 \approx 32.75).
- 10 Lines of text (64 \div 6 \approx 10.6).

* Latest firmware for equation library and physical constants.
HP-38G notes: Language was determined in the ROM and regional differences with English, French, German & Spanish version appear to have been produced.HP-39G Notes: Identical to the 40g without CAS. Sys PRL is able to be used with PC Connectivity kit. Language was determined in the ROM and regional differences with English, French, German & Spanish version appear to have been produced.HP-39gs Notes: Identical to the 40gs except memory 256 KB RAM, 1MB Flash, no CAS. The ARM processor emulated the Saturn environment at a faster speen than was possible for the 39G. Discontinued date matched to sucessor HP-39gII232
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Additional PublicationsHP-17BHP-19BHP-27SHP-48GXHP-49g+HP-50g (Black)HP-48gII (v2)HP-38GHP-39GHP-39gs234
241
Books 1HP Calculator Self-Test FunctionsAn Easy Course in Using the HP-19BStep-by-Step Solutions: Business Finance and Accounting (17B/19B/27S) - HP Calculator LiteratureSee other HP-48S & 48G models for additional resourcesAn Introduction to Programming HP Graphing CalculatorsAn Introduction to Programming HP Graphing CalculatorsAn Introduction to Programming HP Graphing CalculatorsA Guide to the HP 38G Math Menu and ProgrammingHP 39/40 Math Applications HP StreamSmart 400 User Guide235
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Books 2https://literature.hpcalc.org/items/1463Math for Accounting and Finance Using the HP CalculatorStep-by-Step Solutions: Marketing and Sales (17B/19B/27S) - HP Calculator LiteratureAlgebra and Pre-Calculus on the HP 48G/GXHP 49/50 Database ApplicationsHP 49/50 Database ApplicationsHP 49g+ and HP 48gII Advanced User's Reference Manual - HP Calculator LiteratureGraphing Technology Guide for Calculus - HP Calculator LiteratureHP 39/40 Science and Engineering Programs HP StreamSmart 400 User Guide236
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Books 3https://literature.hpcalc.org/items/1745Setting the Language - HP Calculator LiteratureStep-by-Step Solutions: Personal Investment and Tax Planning (17B/19B/27S) - HP Calculator LiteratureAn Easy Course in Using and Programming the HP 48G/GXHP 49/50 Entry PointsHP 49/50 Entry PointsHP 50g/49g+/48gII Advanced User's Reference ManualHP 38 ApplicationsHP Calculator Self-Test Functions HP StreamSmart 410 User Guide237
244
Books 4Math for Accounting and Finance Using the HP CalculatorStep-by-Step Solutions: Business Finance and Accounting (17B/19B/27S) - HP Calculator LiteratureStep-by-Step Solutions: Real Estate, Banking, and Leasing (17B/19B/27S) - HP Calculator LiteratureAn HP 48G Calculus CompanionHP 49/50 PIMs (Personal Information Managers)HP 49/50 PIMs (Personal Information Managers)HP Product Page (Live Nov 2025)HP 38 Documentation FilesHP-related Programs for the PC HP StreamSmart 410 User Guide (39/40 Edition)238
245
Books 5Setting the Language - HP Calculator LiteratureStep-by-Step Solutions: Marketing and Sales (17B/19B/27S) - HP Calculator LiteratureStep-by-Step Solutions: Technical Applications (27S/19B) - HP Calculator LiteratureAn Introduction to HP 48 System RPL and Assembly Language ProgrammingHP 49/50 Spreadsheets and Matrix ToolsHP 49/50 Spreadsheets and Matrix Toolshttps://hp.manymanuals.com/calculators/f2226a/datasheet-656HP 38 Gameshttps://literature.hpcalc.org/items/341HP 39/40 Math Applications239
246
Books 6Step-by-Step Solutions: Business Finance and Accounting (17B/19B/27S) - HP Calculator LiteratureStep-by-Step Solutions: Personal Investment and Tax Planning (17B/19B/27S) - HP Calculator LiteratureAn Easy Course in Using the HP-27S - HP Calculator LiteratureAn Introduction to HP 48 System RPL and Assembly Language Programming [Remake]HP 49/50 Text Editors and ViewersHP 49/50 Text Editors and Viewershttps://literature.hpcalc.org/items/1752HP 38 Math Applicationshttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp39/docs/cascommands.zipHP 39/40 Science and Engineering Programs240
247
Books 7Step-by-Step Solutions: Personal Investment and Tax Planning (17B/19B/27S) - HP Calculator LiteratureStep-by-Step Solutions: Real Estate, Banking, and Leasing (17B/19B/27S) - HP Calculator Literaturehttps://literature.hpcalc.org/items/1661Analytical and Numerical Methods with the HP 48G/G+/GX Programmable CalculatorHP 49g+ and HP 48gII Advanced User's Reference Manual - HP Calculator LiteratureHP 50g/49g+/48gII Advanced User's Reference Manualhttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp48/docs/misc/hpirda.zipHP 38 Programming Toolshttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp39/docs/hpbasiclessons.zipHP StreamSmart 410 Quick Start Guide241
248
Books 8Step-by-Step Solutions: Real Estate, Banking, and Leasing (17B/19B/27S) - HP Calculator LiteratureStep-by-Step Solutions: Technical Applications (27S/19B) - HP Calculator LiteratureHP Calculator Self-Test FunctionsApplications of the HP 48G Series Calculator in Probability and StatisticsHP 50g/49g+/48gII Advanced User's Reference ManualHP Calculator Self-Test Functionshttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/docs/misc/cartes-radio.zipHP 38 Science and Engineering Programshttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp39/docs/sysrpllessons.zipHP-related Programs for the PC242
249
Books 9The Home Buyer Income Qualification Manual, 1991 Supplement - HP Calculator LiteratureThe Home Buyer Income Qualification Manual, 1991 Supplement - HP Calculator LiteratureBusiness Pac. 1 - HP Calculator LiteratureHP Calculator Self-Test Functionshttps://literature.hpcalc.org/items/2074https://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/docs/programming/vraiscycles.zipHP 38 Utilitieshttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp39/docs/ti83hp39.ziphttps://dn790001.ca.archive.org/0/items/manualzilla-id-7153805/7153805.pdf243
250
Books 10The HP-19B Pocket BookCalculus Investigations with the HP-48G/GXhttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp48/docs/misc/hpcv6n2.ziphttps://literature.hpcalc.org/items/2083Introduction to Saturn Assembly Language - HP Calculator LiteratureHP 38G User's Guidehttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp39/docs/ti83hp39html.ziphttps://hp.manymanuals.com/calculators/f2223aa/datasheet-22437244
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Books 11The HP-19B Pocket Guide: Just in CaseCalculus Mathematic Pac 2: Professional Extension - HP Calculator Literaturehttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp48/docs/misc/hpcv6n3.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp48/docs/misc/hpcv6n2.zipHP Calculator Self-Test Functionshttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp39/pc/advapletprgrm.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp39/docs/cascommands.zip245
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Books 12Calculus New Mathematic Pac 1: High School and College - HP Calculator Literaturehttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp48/docs/misc/hpirda.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp48/docs/misc/hpcv6n3.zipHP Graphing Calculator PC Connectivity Kit User Guidehttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp39/pc/apletconv.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp39/docs/connkitwin10.zip246
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Books 13Calculus on the HP 48G/GXhttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/docs/misc/cartes-radio.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp48/docs/misc/hpirda.zipHP-related Programs for the PChttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp39/pc/apletframe.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp39/docs/hpbasiclessons.zip247
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Books 14CalcWare Calculus and Advanced Math - HP Calculator Literaturehttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/docs/misc/casenglish.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/docs/misc/cartes-radio.ziphttps://literature.hpcalc.org/items/1658https://www.hpcalc.org/hp48/docs/misc/hpcv6n2.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp39/docs/sysrpllessons.zip248
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Books 15CalcWare Mechanics and Thermodynamics - HP Calculator Literaturehttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/docs/misc/casenglish.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/docs/misc/casenglish.zipInVision 48 Overhead Display - HP Calculator Literaturehttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp48/docs/misc/hpcv6n3.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp39/docs/ti83hp39.zip249
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Books 16CalcWare Optics, Waves and Relativity - HP Calculator Literaturehttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/docs/programming/vraiscycles.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/docs/misc/casenglish.zipQuick Guide to Using the HP 38Ghttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp48/docs/misc/hpirda.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp39/docs/ti83hp39html.zip250
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Books 17Co-Op 48CE Civil Engineering Card Manual - HP Calculator Literaturehttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/docs/programming/vraiscycles.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/docs/programming/vraiscycles.zipThe HP 38G Graphic Calculator Beginner's Guidehttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/docs/misc/cartes-radio.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp39/pc/advapletprgrm.zip251
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Books 18CVP Survey Pack - HP Calculator Literaturehttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/pc/rom/eqlibpertbl.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/docs/programming/vraiscycles.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/docs/misc/casenglish.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp39/pc/apletconv.zip252
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Books 19Differential Equations Using the HP-48G/GXhttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/pc/rom/hp-arm-models-bootloader.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/pc/rom/eqlibpertbl.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/docs/programming/vraiscycles.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp39/pc/apletframe.zip253
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Books 20Drive95 Portable Disk Drive User's Manual - HP Calculator LiteratureIntroduction to Saturn Assembly Language - HP Calculator Literaturehttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/pc/rom/hp-arm-models-bootloader.ziphttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp39/pc/hp39gs222.zip254
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Books 21FileMan 48 Surveyor's Database Reference Manual - HP Calculator LiteratureMiscellaneous HP 49/50 ApplicationsIntroduction to Saturn Assembly Language - HP Calculator Literaturehttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp48/docs/misc/hpirda.zip255
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Books 22Graphics on the HP 48G/GXProgramming in System RPL, Second Edition - HP Calculator LiteratureMiscellaneous HP 49/50 Applicationshttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/docs/misc/cartes-radio.zip256
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Books 23Graphing Technology Guide for Calculus - HP Calculator LiteratureThe Chemistry Collection - HP Calculator LiteratureThe Chemistry Collection - HP Calculator Literaturehttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/docs/misc/casenglish.zip257
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Books 24Helgesen Flight Navigation System Pilot's Operating Manual - HP Calculator Literaturehttps://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/docs/programming/vraiscycles.zip258
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Books 25HP 48 Hacker's ROM Owner's Manual259
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Books 26HP 48 Insights Part I (HP 48G/GX Edition) - HP Calculator Literature260
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Books 27HP 48 Serial Interface Kit 82208C261
268
Books 28HP 48 to Dos/Windows Compatible PCs Serial Interface Kit User's Guide262
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Books 29HP 48G Message Booklet Multilingual (Moravia)263
270
Books 30HP 48G Series Advanced User's Reference264
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Books 31HP 48G Series Examples in Math Education - Part 2265
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Books 32HP 48G Series Message Booklet Multilingual266
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Books 33HP 48G/GX Calculator Enhancement for Science and Engineering Mathematics267
274
Books 34HP 48G/GX Investigations in Mathematics268
275
Books 35HP 82208B Getting Started with the Program Development Link269
276
Books 36HP 82240B Infrared Printer Operating Instructions270
277
Books 37HP Calculator Self-Test Functions271
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Books 38HP Graphing Calculator PC Connectivity Kit User Guide272
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Books 39https://literature.hpcalc.org/items/1178273
280
Books 40https://literature.hpcalc.org/items/1183274
281
Books 41https://literature.hpcalc.org/items/1218275
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Books 42https://literature.hpcalc.org/items/1319276
283
Books 43https://literature.hpcalc.org/items/1380277
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Books 44https://literature.hpcalc.org/items/1393278
285
Books 45https://literature.hpcalc.org/items/1642279
286
Books 46https://literature.hpcalc.org/items/372280
287
Books 47https://www.finseth.com/hpdata/viruses.php281
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Books 48https://www.hpcalc.org/hp48/docs/misc/hpirda.zip282
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Books 49https://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/docs/misc/cartes-radio.zip283
290
Books 50https://www.hpcalc.org/hp49/docs/programming/vraiscycles.zip284
291
Books 51HYDRAtools Hydraulic Calculator Reference Manual285
292
Books 52Introduction to RPL - HP Calculator Literature286
293
Books 53Introduction to Saturn Assembly Language - HP Calculator Literature287
294
Books 54InVision 48 Overhead Display - HP Calculator Literature288
295
Books 55Linear Algebra Investigations with the HP 48G/GX289
296
Books 56Mastering the HP 48G/GX290
297
Books 57Math+ User Manual - HP Calculator Literature291
298
Books 58NAVCOM 48 HP-48 Marine Navigation Library - HP Calculator Literature292
299
Books 59Omnibus Spreadsheet for the HP 48SX/GX User's Guide293
300
Books 60Party Chief Surveying Software Reference Manual - HP Calculator Literature294
301
Books 61Product Registration Form - HP Calculator Literature295
302
Books 62Programming in System RPL, First Edition - HP Calculator Literature296
303
Books 63Programming in User RPL - HP Calculator Literature297
304
Books 64Richard's Plain Geometry Owner's Manual - HP Calculator Literature298
305
Books 65SURVcalc Surveying Software - HP Calculator Literature299
306
Books 66TDS TFR TFR-LINK DC-LINK User's Manual - HP Calculator Literature300
307
Books 67TDS-48GX Survey Pro Reference - HP Calculator Literature301
308
Books 68TDS-48GX Survey Pro User's Manual - HP Calculator Literature302
309
Books 69TDS-48GX Surveying Card User's Manual - HP Calculator Literature303
310
Books 70The 48 Business Pac Users Manual - HP Calculator Literature304
311
Books 71The Advanced Pocket Professional Spice48 Owner's Manual - HP Calculator Literature305
312
Books 72The Chemistry Collection - HP Calculator Literature306
313
Books 73The HP 48 Handbook, Second Edition307
314
Books 74The HP 48 Pocket Book308
315
Books 75The Pocket Professional Chemistry Reference Pac Owner's Manual - HP Calculator Literature309
316
Books 76The Pocket Professional EE-Pro Owner's Manual - HP Calculator Literature310
317
Books 77The Pocket Professional Math-Pro Owner's Manual - HP Calculator Literature311
318
Books 78The Pocket Professional Statistics Pac Owner's Manual - HP Calculator Literature312
319
Books 79The Regression Analysis Package for the HP 48313
320
Books 80VERBB Circuit Analysis Software Manual - HP Calculator Literature314
321
Books 81VERBB Circuit Analysis Software Quick Reference Card - HP Calculator Literature315
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