|
12. The Charlemagne
Series (1990 - today) |
 |
HP 48SX
Introduced on March 16, 1990. it had symbolic algebra,
graphics, two plug-in card slots, an RS232 port and a
two-way infrared system for communication with printers and
other calculators. This calculator was a big success and had
as many followers as the HP 41. Many games have been written
for the HP 48SX, including Tetris. Code
name: Charlemagne or Charle. Original price: $250 |
 |
HP 48S
Introduced on April 2, 1991. This is simply an HP48SX with
all its features without the expansion ports. Its code name
implies that it is a short version of the 48SX, but in
reality it was named after the father of Charlemagne the
Great, Pepin the Short. Code
name: Shorty. Original price: $250 |
 |
HP 48GX
Introduced on June 1, 1993 and replaced the 48SX. It has
more functions, more memory (128k bytes) and a faster
processor. Its codename was derived from Charlemagne's
grandfather, Charles the Hammer.
Code name: Hammer. Original price: $350 |
 |
HP 48G
Introduced some time after June 1, 1993 (the introduction
date of the HP48GX), was identical to the HP 48GX without
the expansion ports and with limited memory (32k bytes). It basically replaced the HP 48S.One
major advantage over the HP 48GX is that it is slightly
faster. Code
name: Alcuin. Original price: $165 |
 |
HP 48G+
This one was just an extended memory version (128k bytes) of
the HP 48G.
Code name:
Alcuin. Original price: unknown. |
 |
HP 38G
Introduced on April 6, 1995, basically to compete with other
graphing calculators and it even dropped RPN in favor of an
algebraic language and operating system. Incorporates curve
fitting and fractions display mode. The main innovation is
the use of "aplets" (animated personal learning tools). It
is the latest HP model and still in production. Code
name: Elsie. Original price: $109 |
 |
HP 39G
Introduced in 2000. This is a scientific model also using
"aplets" (as in the 38G). However, built-in memory
was increased to 256k bytes. The elimination of the RPN
login made this one a bit awkward to use, however plotting
functions and support for complex numbers is still
available.
Original price: $89 |
 |
HP 40G
Introduced in 2000. This was the European counterpart of the
39G. Original price: Unknown |
 |
HP 49G
Also introduced in 2000. This calculator is an astounding
machine. With 1.5 Mbytes of memory, RPN and algebraic data
entry, it was a strong comeback of HP in the pocket
calculator arena. Original street price: about $150. |
