20 Section 1: Getting StartedChain Calculations

Whenever the answer has just been calculated and is therefore in the display, you can perform another operation with this number by simply keying in the second number and then pressing the operation key: you need not press \to separate the second number from the first. This is because when a number is keyed in after a function key (such as +,-,§, z, etc.) is pressed, the result of that prior calculation is stored inside the calculator — just as when the \ key is pressed. The only time you must press the \ key to separate two numbers is when you are keying them both in, one immediately following the other.

The hp 12c is designed so that each time you press a function key in RPN mode, the calculator performs the operation then — not later — so that you see the results of all intermediate calculations, as well as the “bottom line.”

Example: Suppose you’ve written three checks without updating your checkbook, and you’ve just deposited your paycheck for $1,053.00 into your checking account. If your latest balance was $58.33 and the checks were written for $22.95, $13.70, and $10.14, what is the new balance?

Solution: When written down on paper, this problem would read

58.33 – 22.95 – 13.70 – 10.14 + 1053

Keystrokes

Display

 

58.33

58.33

Keys the first number.

\

58.33

Pressing \separates the second

 

 

number from the first.

22.95

22.95

Keys in the second number.

-

35.38

Pressing -subtracts the second

 

 

number from the first. The calculator

 

 

displays the result of this calculation,

 

 

which is the balance after subtracting

 

13.70

the first check.

13.70

Keys in the next number. Since a

 

 

calculation has just been performed,

 

 

do not press \; the next number

entered (13.70) is automatically separated from the one previously in the display (35.38).

File name: hp 12c_user's guide_English_HDPMBF12E44

Page: 20 of 209

Printered Date: 2005/7/29

Dimension: 14.8 cm x 21 cm