HP 33S Scientific Calculator (F2216A)

This Electronics CE item from Hewlett Packard was reviewed on 22-Jul-2008.

HP 33S Scientific Calculator (F2216A) Reference CE. Classifications : Scientific Calculators Office Electronics Categories Electronics All Hewlett-Packard Hewlett-Packard Custom Brands Custom Stores Specialty Stores Computers Features Electronics Calculators Other HP Pr . Click the following link to view the cover of HP 33S Scientific Calculator (F2216A).

Related topics: RPN and algebraic key-in logic. Easy-to-read 2-line LCD. Sturdy rubber/plastic construction. 32 KB memory, 27 memory storage and recall functions. Automatic power off. Scientific. Calculators. Office Electronics. Categories. Electronics. All Hewlett-Packard. Hewlett-Packard. Custom Brands. Custom Stores. Specialty Stores.

1) Electronics CE HP 33S Scientific Calculator (F2216A) by Hewlett Packard. I have been using this calculator on an almost daily basis in an engineering company for more than 3 years. The 1st set of batteries lasted 1 year 4 months. I have just put in the second set of replacement batteries after another 2 years.

The readability of the display is not really an issue once you get used to it. I have the old version with larger number display, but closer together.

The silver casing is now becoming a bit scratched, but looks well used. The carry case does a good job in protecting the calculator.

I use the program facility for a few short (20 line) programs. Anything more complicated is easier on the computer.

It took a while to get used to the keyboard layout, but now seems intuitive. I certainly prefer the enter key in the bottom RH corner near the other main operators and the calculator has its own dedicated STO button (both unlike the HP 35S).

RPN mode is normally used, but it is easy to switch to algebraic mode to allow other people to borrow the calculator.

I do not need the complication of a graphing calculator. Anything more complicated can be done on a computer more easily.

A printed manual is included (unlike the HP 35S).

Overall, after more than 3 years use of this calculator, it has not let me down and with the recent price falls, I would certainly recommend it.
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2) Electronics CE HP 33S Scientific Calculator (F2216A) by Hewlett Packard. I had a 32s for many years. When it finally died, I got this one. The calculator just feels cheap. It also goes through 2 cr2032 batteries every other month whether I use it or not. (My 32s lasted 2-3 years on a set of batteries).¤

3) Electronics CE HP 33S Scientific Calculator (F2216A) by Hewlett Packard. Well, what can I say. For the Professional Engineers exam there are no other choices in HP calculator models, either this or the 35s. This one was useful for studying and during the exam.

PROS: Manual comes with several programs that you can use to ease calculations, like Matrix solving and TVM calculations. Its helpful that one can switch from RPN to algebraic so you can use the same calculator for people that are not familiar with RPN (or dont care for it).

CONS: When programming, you cant use the same variable names across different separate programs, since the memory seems to be just one lump piece, which made me have to reassign variable names so I could have different programs installed. The clicking of the keys is also a bit annoying, specially during the exam. You´re in enough tension as it is, to have someone next to you clicking away.¤

4) Electronics CE HP 33S Scientific Calculator (F2216A) by Hewlett Packard. I already own two previous HP models including the 15c and 41CX, both of which have served me well for many years. The trouble is that neither has been approved by NCEES for use during the FE exam. Consequently, I was compelled to buy a Model 33s in order to sit for the Exam in 2006. The first problem I noticed was the cheap feel of the keys. When using the calculator with any "speed" it became difficult to ascertain whether or not a keystroke had actually registered; necessitating a s-l-o-w and deliberate approach to data entry.

Another fatal flaw is found in the LCD display, as the decimal can be camouflaged, especially when preceded by the number "2" (but hey, what´s an order of magnitude or two between friends?...).

The 33s also offers an option to use RPN...or not. Is RPN not the primary distinction that has set HP calculators ahead of all other competing brands? The analogy of the "Enduro" comes to mind - A motorcycle that can be operated on the highway, or in the dirt, yet not very well on either surface. Get with it HP, RPN is why we buy.

In brief, the HP 33s does not live up to the standards of functionality that HP had so brilliantly established over the past several decades. The 33s is a dissapointment for this long-time user of HP calculators, yet was a "necessary evil" with respect to the FE Exam. Fortunately there is a new HP model (HP 35s) approved by NCEES for those RPN junkies taking the exam this year. Hopefully that model will live up to the quality expectations of die-hard RPN users.¤

5) Electronics CE HP 33S Scientific Calculator (F2216A) by Hewlett Packard. this is not your regular TI or Casio calculator. It is meant to be non graphical and multi function calculator. I bought it for my FE exam in April, 08.
This calculator comes with somany buit-in functions. Each button has atleast three functions to it. The instruction manual was very rich with content and dense. However, because it comes with so many functions, good luck figuring it all out. it can be confusing to find the keys you need. its also programmable which is what I look for in a calculator. However, programing is tedious and tormenting. Have fun!¤

6) Electronics CE HP 33S Scientific Calculator (F2216A) by Hewlett Packard.

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