[comp.sys.hp] HP-28 lack of mass I/O

postpischil@being.dec.com (Always mount a scratch monkey.) (11/08/88)

A couple of people have complained about the lack of mass input/output on
the HP-28.  I can understand this, as it would add quite a bit to the
HP-28, but I am satisfied with it as is.  While I cannot offer anything to
help these people achieve their goals, except possibly to recommend a small
computer rather than a calculator, I thought they might like to understand
how other people use the device.

To me, the HP-28 is a problem solver, not a library of programs to perform
specific tasks.  For complicated things I need done regularly, I have access to
full-size computers.  For data storage, I also use such computers.

The HP-28 does calculations.  It is well-suited to the quick development of
programs to perform one calculation or another.  It is also good for finding
a solution to a problem, when the problem need be solved only once.  In fact,
the HP-28 is a unique tool, providing capabilities for these tasks that no
other calculator or computer provides so readily, compactly, or cheaply.

So the HP-28 fills my needs, and I am glad I did not have to pay the extra cost
that mass input/output would have consumed in dollars, physical size, and
displacement of other features.


				-- edp (Eric Postpischil)
				"Always mount a scratch monkey."