When it comes to calculators, most people think of their smartphones or the built-in calculator app on their computers. However, there is one calculator that has stood the test of time and is still widely used today - the Hewlett Packard 12c, including the HP 12c Platinum. This calculator was first launched 30 years ago, on September 1, 1981, and has since become a vital tool in finance, business, and academia.
The Secret to the HP 12c's Success
What makes the HP 12c so special? According to Dennis Harms, the project manager of the original HP 12c, there are a few key factors. Firstly, it was the first calculator from HP to feature Reverse Polish Notation (RPN), which significantly improves user input efficiency. With RPN, you can perform calculations faster and with fewer keystrokes.
Additionally, the design of the HP 12c is a standout feature. It minimizes the number of components inside, with only three main parts: the processor, the RAM ROM Display Driver chip (aka r2d2 ), and a digital clock. This simplicity allows the calculator to last for years on just two miniature replaceable batteries. The processor itself computes in decimal, rather than binary, making calculations accurate and fast. The use of CMOS for its circuit-board and 10-digit registers as its memory was also innovative at the time.
But perhaps the most significant reason for the HP 12c's enduring popularity is its reliability and instant functionality. While smartphones and personal computers may have calculator apps, the HP 12c doesn't require any loading time and just works. It is a testament to HP's emphasis on quality at the time of its creation. The company took their time to ensure that the product was as good as it could be, and it has paid off.
A Calculator That Exceeded Expectations
When the HP 12c was first introduced, it was expected to last just a few years on the market. However, its success far exceeded HP's expectations. The product was initially ordered by college bookstores, who ordered four times the number of units they expected to sell immediately. The bookstores ordered 4 million units, anticipating selling only 1 million. To everyone's surprise, all 4 million units sold out at launch.
Where is hewlett packard manufactured?Thirty years later, the HP 12c remains in use, despite the availability of calculator apps on smartphones and computers. This is a testament to its timeless design, reliability, and functionality. It has become a staple tool for financial professionals and is still one of only two standard calculators permitted for use during financial professional certification exams.
The Future of the HP 12c
As technology continues to advance, it's natural to wonder how long the HP 12c will remain relevant. According to Harms, the calculator's date calculator can handle dates only up to 11/16/4096 due to memory limitations. After that point, its reliability may be compromised. However, considering the calculator's longevity and continued popularity, it will likely be a while before it needs to be replaced.
If you don't already own an HP 12c, you're in luck. HP recently announced the release of the 30th Anniversary Edition of the calculator. This edition is essentially the same as the original, with the addition of a unique production number laser-etched on its back. Each 12c comes in a gift box and is priced at $79, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone in need of a reliable and efficient calculator.
The Hewlett Packard 12c, including the HP 12c Platinum, is a calculator that has stood the test of time. Its innovative design, featuring Reverse Polish Notation (RPN) and a simplified internal structure, sets it apart from other calculators. Its reliability, instant functionality, and focus on quality have made it a favorite among finance professionals and students alike. While technology continues to evolve, the HP 12c remains a valuable tool that continues to hold its value. With the release of the 30th Anniversary Edition, it's clear that this calculator is here to stay for years to come.
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