Posted by Tillman (DE) on March 16, 2004 at 08:02:59:
nt
HP 12C or HP12C Platinum - Posted by Lynn
Posted by Lynn on March 15, 2004 at 14:16:21:
What is the difference between the HP 12C and 12C Platinum?
The 12C Platinum is $10 more. Is it worth it? What are your opinions?
Re: HP 12C or HP12C Platinum - Posted by John Behle
Posted by John Behle on March 16, 2004 at 12:19:13:
I don’t know what the Platinum edition is about. The 12C is wonderful, no question - but a couple dozen years behind the industry. It is still more capable than most non-HP calculators though. It’s a good buy, but you might want to step up to a 17B or 19B for a few bucks more. The 19B can be hard to find and the few extra features don’t necessarily justify the much higher price. It did in the days when there were no PDA’s, but the world changes.
Many of the newer HP models have the same software built in as the financial calculators. I’m not sure of the newer IPAQ models. I don’t use or like those types, but most people do. You might want to look into a PDA that has the software built in. There are also programs for the PALM OS and for Windows CE that handle financial calculations.
Personally I love the now discontinued Palmtops that HP put out. Their last was an HP720 which is just about as capable as any of the newer models, has a built in keyboard, modem, web browser, email…etc. and has the very capable Omnisolve financial calulator software built in. It’s like a 12C on steriods. They are in the 2-300 range used, but the even older models (still radically advanced of the 12C) go down to the $50 and below range. They include the HP99, 200, 320, 360, 620, 660, 690. Each with more advanced features. From the 620 and above, they have nice color screens. On my 720, I can do everything from crunch numbers, write articles, or even watch DVD’s. If I get a portfolio of notes or a very complicated cash flow, I can even lay it out on a spreadsheet if need be.
So, anyway, there are many options other than the 12C, which is somewhere around 20 year old technology for the same or lesser price.
There are some somewhat simpler calculators - but be aware that they are far less capable. In advanced discounting and cash flow analysis, they are left in the dust by an HP. If you have used and understand the HP12C, then it is a great tool. If not, then start with the 17B which has simple menus that make it much easier to learn. Many use the HP10B, but it is not as easy or as capable.
The HP’s are sturdy too. Two of the only things to survive our office building fire some years back were my HP19 and an Ironman watch. The HP still smells like smoke. Talk about “takes a licking and keeps on ticking”.
Re: HP 12C or HP12C Platinum - Posted by Harry
Posted by Harry on March 16, 2004 at 01:28:41:
Yeah, thats what I say…WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE!!!