Texas Instruments TI-89 Advanced Graphing Calculator

Texas Instruments TI-89 Advanced Graphing Calculator Review

Texas Instruments TI-89 Advanced Graphing Calculator Feature

• Over 500 KB memory for storing functions, programs, and data
• Pretty Print technology displays mathematical expressions as they appear in textbooks
• High-resolution display with split-screen views
• Computes symbolic solutions to differential equations
• Input/output port and cable, also supports optional TI-GRAPH LINK

This advanced graphing calculator is packed with more features than you might know how to use. The TI-89 lets you perform the expected functions of an advanced calculator--basic math, algebra, calculus, graphs, matrices, and statistical functions. However, you can also do cool stuff like create animations as well as graph 3-D rotations and plot contours.

The manual that ships with the TI-89 is a killer, presenting over 500 pages of clear, concise definitions, function explanations, examples, drawings, and appendices. It's divided into well-organized chapters that cover all the major features of the calculator. Graphing functions include basic function graphing, parametric graphing, polar graphing, sequence graphing, 3-D graphing, and differential-equation graphing. Additionally, the TI-89 includes symbolic manipulation, constants and measurement units, statistics and data plots, a numeric solver, a text editor, programming capabilities, tables, a split-screen function, variable management, and the ability to link to other calculators or a computer.

The large, color-coded keys are easy to read and find--a nice touch on such a feature-heavy calculator. An improvement over earlier Texas Instruments graphing calculators is the addition of one-touch X, Y, and Z variable keys. The large LCD screen is also adjustable to your environment; we were able to view it clearly in a variety of lighting. The TI-89 comes with an attached, hard slide cover that protects it from getting knocked around in a backpack.

The TI-89's flash technology allows you to upgrade to future software versions so you don't have to continually invest in new calculators. The whopping 500 K of memory is more than sufficient for your stored functions, programs, and data. You can also create custom menus or use the default menu. Another cool feature is the Program Editor, which gives you the ability to program. The TI-89 also comes with an input/output port and cable, letting you synch up with other TI-89s or TI-92s. --Jill Lightner

Pros:

• Large keys
• Easy-to-read LCD
• Includes input/output port and cable
• Allowed in AP, SAT, PSAT/NMSQT tests
• Comprehensive, illustrated manual

Cons:

• None

Introducing TI's most powerful graphing calculator: The TI-89 Titanium, offering new features, preloaded Apps, and even more versatility. A built-in USB port makes data transfer ultra-convenient. Plus, with three times the memory of the TI-89, you can store more Apps, data, and programs