Calculator for FS exam

I was in a similar situation when gearing up for the FS, and settled with a HP 35s.

If you do end up using a 35s, I'd recommend taking a look at the MnDOT programs for it- the programs provided cover everything you'd need, and it's pretty straight forward for a new user.

https://www.dot.state.mn.us/surveying/software/hp35s-programs.pdf

I would recommend the Casio for the FS exam (and beyond). My model is the fx-115ES PLUS, but I see that the fx-991EX is very similar.

The DMS button is great. Makes it so easy for angular entry and conversions. I use it all the time. I also like the display layout, trig buttons, decimal-to-fraction button, and there's a handy feature for unit conversions, too.

I'm a fan of RPN and the HP35s. Not that hard to learn RPN.?ÿ

RPN = Reverse Polish Notation

Everyone finds it odd at first and then you begin to wonder why you ever used anything else.

I used two Sharp 305s when I took the Survey exam

Any reliable calculator with a couple of memories and a polar to rectangular function will get the job done.

HP35s are the goto unit that you will use for the rest of your career if taken care of.

Sweat and the elements of working outdoors are very hard on them.

good luck

Common, my wife learned RPN and preferred to grab my HP 11 to do the check book over straight models.

Second, I don't think anyone needs a pre-programmed calculator for any exam. I used an HP 11 for FS and PLS and saw no need for anything else.

The new HP 35 is like the HP 11 in that you need to change D.MMSS to D.dec for functions by keystrokes and back, and that is what you need to learn smoothly to speed them up.

Paul in PA

Either will work fine its just important to get used to using them. Pick one and use it for calcs at work and studying for the test. Don't fall back on the ti-89. As for RPN, I hated it at first but now I love it and my 35 travels with me across the US on survey jobs. If you hand me a regular calculator it takes me longer than I like to admit to "retrain" my myself.

As for programming I don't think its necessary, the calculations are fairly simple and you'll find you have ample time provided you study. Though it's allowed and personal preference. If you go through the practice exam and can knock out the 50 or so questions in 2-2.5 hours you won't need a program. If you can't or are overly worried about it then get a programmed one.?ÿ

-Tim

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I used the TI-30xa with a TI-30xii for a backup. DMS entry is quick. It's memory is limited to three values but that was all I seemed to need.?ÿ?ÿ

Whatever you decide, I recommend bringing a backup calculator.

I use a phone app or the DC for calcs now.

@murphy  I have two of those TI-30XA, one just to my left now and one on the drafting table behind me.

And they cost a whopping $7.32 each!

I used an hp48gx with a tds card, I guess those were the good 'ol days.

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@rundatline

Not all hope is lost... some state-specific exams allow you to use a 48. I know I'll be using mine during the California state-specific.

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Thanks for all of the info and suggestions. It sounds like I could probably get by with the Casio.

@rundatline I passed my exams in 1993 using an HP 41CX with the plug in survey module.  It died a long time ago but I still have it for sentimental value.

I did my FS in 1997 with a HP48Gx and SMI card. Which was "legal" at the time. But out of 165 questions there were about 5 that I really used the COGO functionality. All of the questions are multiple choice. Typically at least two of the available four answers are absurd. In almost all cases the correct answer can be devined by examining the options, and finding that only one of them is reasonable. If you try to cogo 165 questions you are going to run out of time.   

My advice is to get your hands on every practice exam you can find - there are a number of them - and get used to what to expect.  

I used a Casio many years ago--fx-115MS.  I still use it and highly recommend it.  The DMS is great and it does fractions.  I had a 48 with me for the test as well, but I just don't like RPN.

HP 33s (if you pick up RPN). You can program them for survey calcs yourself in about 90 minutes, but don't really need any programming for the FS (or the PS).  The calcs are pretty simple.  They don't ask you to calc elevations on a vertical curve, do any spherical trig or even brg/dist intersection coordinates.  My favorite was the HP 11C.  I think I changed batteries once in 25 years and dug it out of a storm drain one afternoon.  It was a tank.

also, if you weren't aware, the computer based version of the FS has "the booklet" linked to the test screen that allows you to open and look up a wide variety of technical survey info from circular curve equations to current ALTA and National Map standards.  To me it essentially made it an open book exam with all the study material well organized in a searchable document.

I used a HP41CX with survey rom in 1990. Found an app for it that I put on my phone. simulates the HP41CX. Use it for angles in the field all the time. DMS

If you are an HP calculator type person, here is a company that makes reproductions of  the entire line. A few are even credit card size. The look really nice with larger screens and stay faithful to key layout on the various models.

https://www.swissmicros.com/products

Used a HP 32S11(my college calculator) for the LSIT in 01 since I didn't have a 48 yet.  They banned the 48 and 32 before I took my LS in 06.  I used a 33 for it and the subsequent tests in 11 and 12 for other states.