The NumWorks graphing calculator [LWN.net]

The NumWorks graphing calculator

Posted Sep 29, 2017 0:17 UTC (Fri) by daney (guest, #24551)
In reply to: The NumWorks graphing calculator by Lionel_Debroux
Parent article: The NumWorks graphing calculator

I think a big reason that "the established calculator manufacturers cartel" is so effective is that The College Board (proprietors of SAT college entrance exams and AP curriculum) as well as ACT (another college entrance exam) only seem to all TI products to be used. Because of this, most US high school students effectively have no choice when it comes to calculator purchases.

CAS or no CAS, unless students are permitted to use the device, I don't think it will be commercially successful.

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The NumWorks graphing calculator

Posted Sep 29, 2017 0:23 UTC (Fri) by daney (guest, #24551) [Link] (1 responses)

OK, so I just looked at the NumWorks web site. I guess they are cognizant of the need to get the thing ACT and AP/SAT approved. They claim that you can use it on the ACT, which is a good start.

I wonder though, with the ability to load custom firmware, if it can be certifiable for these tests, as you could in theory add functions to gain an advantage over others who would have only standard firmware.

The NumWorks graphing calculator

Posted Sep 29, 2017 14:10 UTC (Fri) by cpitrat (subscriber, #116459) [Link]

You can load any program on a TI. Back in my days, people were (uselessly) copying their notes in the calculator hoping it would help them. What could you possibly do in a firmware that you can't do in a program and that would bring you some 'advantage' ?!