Introduction

Barry Kissane

The Casio fx-7400G PLUS does not have all the capabilities of larger, more sophisticated (and considerably more expensive) graphics calculators. This booklet contains examples of programs that you can use to extend its capabilities in various ways.

Some of the programs allow the calculator to undertake tasks usually available only on more sophisticated calculators (such as solving equations). Some programs allow you to explore mathematical ideas in new ways, such as those involving generating random data. Some others provide mathematical functions not usually available on calculators (such as finding factors of a number).

A calculator program is a set of commands to be carried out by the calculator in a particular sequence. There are special programming commands available to direct the calculator, although most of the commands are those with which you are already familiar.

It is not necessary to know how to write a program in order to use a program. All that you need to do is to faithfully enter into your calculator a program written by someone else, and to know how and when to use the program.

The User's Guide provides detailed information on programming, as well as some other programs, if you would like to know more about this.

Entering a Program

The programs in this book can be entered into your calculator in at least three different ways.

Provided you have the right calculator accessories and Internet access, you can download all the programs from the Australian Casio Education Site (ACES), with the URL http://www.school.casio.com.au and then transfer them directly to your calculator through the communications port. You will need the FA-122 or FA-123 kit for your computer to do this. Refer to Chapter 9 of the User's Guide.

A second way is to transfer the programs from another calculator that already has them entered. To do this, you will need the special SB-62 cable, or an equivalent cable. In this case, you use the communications port of your calculator, and use Link Mode for each calculator. Refer to Chapter 9 of the User's Guide.

A third way is to enter a program by typing in the commands by hand. First press 6 to activate the program mode of the calculator. Press to start. Enter a name (maximum eight letters) and press when you’re finished. It is best to use the names of the programs used in this book to avoid confusion.

Enter the program commands, exactly as they are written in this book, pressing

(shown as ) at the end of each line. Most of the commands you will use in a program are the same ones you use for other calculator operations. There are also some special