My RPN Calculator needs Repair

[David Root]

I have a HP 32S II which is giving me trouble after about 25 years of service. I now cannot use any non-RPN calculator.

Is there anyone out there who knows how to fix these? I am reduced to slamming it on the table when it acts up and I think it won't take this abuse much longer.

[martin manning]

David, it's time to let go. Really. I have a couple of HP calculators around, somewhere, but I use my phone now. And, yes, there is an app... But if you find that you just can't, http://www.fixthatcalc.com

[romberg]

This allows you to run many HP roms. The exact same code as the HP hardware runs. Even HP used this emulator for one of their newer models.

http://hp.giesselink.com/emu48.htm

Mike

[BTF]

Possible help...

If the problem you're describing is that the calculator won't respond to key punches, cuts off abruptly, or won't cut on, I had a similar problem with my prized Sharp Scientific (I have others, but I know the key locations by heart- others take me aeons to use...). I had to slam it against a solid object to make it work. Then after a while even that wouldn't help.

The Sharp's problem was that the membrane between the keys and the contacts on the board was dirty. I took the calculator apart, keeping the key-side down so as not to spill the keys. I peeled the membrane carefully from the board (it had actually bonded to the board), gently wiped its contact-side with clear rubbing alcohol, and let it dry. When replaced, the Sharp was good as new.

Don't know if this will help, but if you have no other options...

Good Luck, Bill.

[LeftyStrat]

In my Yoda voice "Calculate, you do."

Sorry couldn't resist.

[sliberty]

There are a variety of iPhone apps, and probably some Android apps that will replace all or most functions on an HP calc. Just search for HP RPN and see which you like best. For about $10 or so, you will be back in biz.

[David Root]

Thanx guys, I knew this place would have answers!

I checked out Martin's website, fix that calc. They charge $49 to fix the 32S II, and they have one tip to try before you break down and send it to them. You remove the batteries and short the battery terminals with a dime. This clears the memory. Put the batteries back in and the calculator works perfectly again! It works as advertized, all the functions I use are working normally again.

I'll bet that $49 fix is exactly what Bill suggested doing. I drop a lot of stuff while I'm building so I'm not sure I'd want to go under the hood myself like that if it starts acting up again.

So thanx again and I'm a happy old technofart once more!

[martin manning]

Cool, glad you got it going again!

[C Moore]

Pardon my ignorance.....
...but are Reverse PN calculators no longer made.?
Thanks

[BTF]

Delighted that you've got it working! I've never heard of that clearing trick. Thanks for posting it. You never know when a tip like that will help.

Congrats, Bill.

[John_P_WI]

I know how you feel David, I'll be in a world of hurt when my 28S takes a crap.

[David Root]

hired hand, yes, that is correct, RPN calculators are history.

I have never understood why, but my guess is the increasingly ineffective educational system has produced adolescents who can't even make change, let alone handle a non-intuitive calculator ie something that has to be learned.

Now that I'm old enough to enjoy the privilege of NOT going back to non RPN and having to re-learn how to use a calculator, there seems to be a certain kind of poetic justice in that...... there I go sounding like Clint Eastwood again, stop me if I start having conversations with chairs.

[Colossal]

...there I go sounding like Clint Eastwood again, stop me if I start having conversations with chairs.

Get off my lawn!

[C Moore]

Hey David -
So an RPN, if they are still made, would be expensive, compared to a real good (non RPN) scientific calculator that can be had for 20-40 bux.?
I briefly remember doing Algebra (circa 1980) with an RPN that belonged to a fellow student. Yeah, it was weird (non-intuitive as you say) but I can see how it would become second nature, and even "easier" to use for some.
Anyway.....good luck with it.

[Carsonius]

First post, and nothing about tubes...

If and when your calculator gives up the ghost, and if you have a smartphone of some type, download the RealCalc Scientific Calculator app for free. Click on the settings button, scroll down and find RPN, check box.

I know a virtual calculator will never be the same as a real one. My HP 12C financial calculator is still going strong after 23 years (a replacement for the one I bought in 1982 that got ripped off). I've changed the batteries twice...