My HP 48 that I have had since starting college, is starting to not be super dependable. Wont come on at times. [sarcasm]Seemed to happen coincidentally shortly after being dropped on a concrete floor.[/sarcasm] Have thought about buying another used one, but am considering changing to something more, let's say, 'current'.
I have an hp33s that I bought just for the sake of taking my professional exams (because they outlawed the 48). That 33 is in my brief case that I take everywhere, and use somewhat frequently.
I feel like I will have to fine tune my 33 skills, before it becomes as easy for me as my 48, and before it becomes my main calculator. So my main question...
If I have to learn to use that one, is there a different option that is better?
I have been using the "Droid48" app on my phone, but, I am coming to the conclusion that I just want a calculator on my desk. Looking forward to answers to your question
I've been using an HP35s for ordinary calculator stuff for a few years. I've not used my HP48 as a cogo generator for some years. I've got AutoCAD C3d for that in the office and data collectors in the field.
If there is a chance you will take more tests stick with an 'approved' calculator. Get rid of your other ones or tuck them away. Finger memory can take over when the pressure is on. During the Washington exam I lost 10 minutes on a simple problem. I kept punching 11C buttons on my 35...
is the 35 what is now allowed on exams?
I have the two states I care about most, but there is another one I am considering.
looked at samson cables?
notice they refurb and sell lots of refurbed 48s.
The only 2 HP models NCEES allows are the 33s and 35s. IMO eliminating the 11C is utterly ridiculous..
The HP 11 Was Removed Because It Is No Longer Sold New
I wrote NCEES about it and that is the reply I got. I think it is preferable for the exam because it is not worthwhile to do anything but use it as it is. I still prefer the HP 11 after 29 years of use.
I do not like the new HP 35 I have. I would sooner use my original HP 35, but that has not been portable for at least 25 years. Still works directly connected to the battery charger without batteries inside. For a few years I would stick regular AAs into an opened battery pack.
Paul in PA
I use HP15C around the office and Go41CX app on my phone.
4diff versions of SMI on HP48GXs around here. I only need something to collect 100 to 200 pts a day and cogo with a few dozen in the field on an average day. It is easy enough to balance angles and close traverses and update all points if needed. AT least one or two will do spiral curves and one will work with GPS lats and longs.
Recently acquired an Allegro with Carlson SurvCE that came with the Sokkia Set330R. Son #3 is learning that collector. Only me can touch that TS. Everyone else has their pick of the other three TS.
Every HP48GX came from EBAY except one that came from Allen Precision about 25yrs ago with SMI v5 Data Collection, I would part with that one. Has one skid mark and it has been tested and works perfectly.
I keep up with an EBAY search and prices are up to over $200 for a really nice HP48 and new ones in the box are still available and go for what you could get a used more modern system.
Several have been sent to FixThatCalc.com For some reason when they get out of my care someone takes them out of the armor case and puts them in their back pocket and sits down. That does a number on the frame and some buttons will not work again and then others don't know how to put them in the case without breaking the 4pin connector.
He is a great guy and does great work. Have not had any contact with him in over two years and his site has not been updated since Nov10,2013.
HP48GX :good:
Take a look at the HP-50g. It is much like the 48 in terms of the programming, and essentially in the same heritage, but much faster.
- jerry
When John Evers (who still frequents this board - Hi John!) was developing the DC50, he also had another product he called the DC50 Assistant. It was an HP50g with all the features and functions of the DC50 data collector, but without the enviromental box and without data collection capabilities. I acquired one back then and still use it every day!! Tons of surveying functions built in so I'm sure its not legal for any tests. The features are explained in the article: http://www.amerisurv.com/content/view/3528/153/
If you can find anyone who wants to part with theirs, I would highly recommend it!
The HP 11 Was Removed Because It Is No Longer Sold New
My issue with that logic is simple. NCEES administers State specific exams. Many of us grey hairs are still punishing ourselves and expanding our markets. Forcing us to learn a new calculator serves no purpose whatsoever.
My .02, Tom
mine got stolen, and I searched on the internets and found a hp48SX. It was like new, and they tend to go for a lot less $ the GX's. It says "Made in USA" on the back. It doesn't have the memory capacity of a GX but it has plenty of storage for a calculator if you don't need it as a data collector. (you have to get used to navigating to the hms and hr keys vs. the GX)
Many of the GX's have a kind of bug that it won't turn on sometimes, unless you kind of press on the upper-right corner of the calculator while you push the on-button in the lower left. I think I remember reading blogs on how to go in and fix it. You might search for that solution.
I've got a 49G+ that is very similar to the 50g. I use that beast almost every day. Faster than a 48GX by miles. Easily programmable. I've muddled my way through a lot of cool things on it. My favorite program is Chuck Rushton's SPC50 program. I also have a custom map closure program I use for every survey that goes out the door.
Where can I find Chuck Rushton's SPC50 program? How does your custom map closure program work?
Here is one source
I have a D'Zign Transportation Pac v2...
:stakeout:
Thanks for the information!