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While the mathematic and graphing tools are comparable to the TI-83 Plus, the Silver Edition boasts significantly improved speed and memory. Its processor is 2.5 times faster, and it has over 1.5 MB of memory--10 times that of the TI-83 Plus. These upgrades make the Silver Edition a significantly improved graphing tool, enabling you to work faster and save more of your equations and programs.
Like the TI-83 Plus, the Silver Edition has a large, easy-to-read 64 x 96 pixel LCD that fits 16 characters and 8 lines. Altering the contrast of the screen is intuitively easy, as is the key layout and graphing interface. Mathematic tools are substantial, including viewing equations, graphs, and coordinates simultaneously; advanced statistics and regression analysis, graphical analysis, and data analysis; and tools for engineering, financial, logarithm, trigonometry, and hyperbolic functions. The calculator is ideal for students in algebra, calculus, and statistics, as well as those taking the PSAT/NMSQT, SAT I or II, and AP College Board Tests.
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The calculator is also rich in tools for those studying biology, chemistry, or physics, including a pre-programmed periodic table. Other programs included with the calculator include a spreadsheet, organizer for phone numbers, puzzle pack, probability simulation, and CBL/CBR applications.
The most exciting bonus of the Silver Edition is TI-Graph Link, which lets you connect the calculator to a computer and download programs from Texas Instruments' Web site (http://education.ti.com) and from enthusiast sites like www.ticalc.org. There you'll find thousands of programs and games for TI graphing calculators, as well as a TI-83 Plus tutorial, electronic guidebook, programming support, and discussion groups.
The calculator uses four AAA batteries and one lithium battery for backup. All batteries are included, as well as a hard slide cover, the TI-Graph Link software and cable, and a remarkably readable 60-page instruction manual. Overall, the improved power, faster speed, and included TI-Graph Link for a remarkably low price make this a truly special "special edition," and we have to admit that the silver casing does look pretty cool. --Ariel Meadow Stallings
The BA II Plus operates in standard calculator and worksheet modes. The standard mode lets you perform common math as well as operations involving the time value of money--that is, applications such as mortgages or annuities in which payments are equal and evenly spaced. You can also perform trigonometric functions in standard mode.
The more hard-core worksheet mode includes tables for amortization, bond, depreciation, and compound interest. If you're not familiar with such calculations, the very helpful user's manual will guide you through the process. All previous worksheet values are stored in memory, so you don't have to retype all the bond maturity or cash flow analysis figures.
The average user who wants to calculate a basic loan payment will be more comfortable working in the standard calculator mode. We were using the BA II Plus tools for calculating basic interest and payment periods within minutes. Still, it's good to know that the more advanced features are available for those who require heavy-duty financial computing.
Finance students and average users alike will find much to like in the Texas Instruments BA II Plus. --John Frederick Moore
