The initial batch of the Swiss HP-15C “clone” is being received. This machine has been discussed on this forum several times. The photo shows the series of HP-15C’s to date with the Swiss clone being the fourth in a series. Oops. This site doesn't allow photos without a URL. sorry.
Here is my initial reaction.
1. Measured Specifications
Size: Credit card: 2.249 x 3.381 x 0.302 inches.(HWD) - stack of ten credit cards.
Weight: 50.6 gr. (1.79 oz.).
2. Construction
Robust using a rigid frame. Back held by four Phillips screws. Simple three piece assembly – Front,
Back, Internal frame. See video on Michael’s website: http://www.rpn-calc.ch/
3. Battery
Single CR2032 coin cell. requires a #0 Philips screw driver to replace. Installing a new batter will produce PR ERROR in the display.
4. Keys
Small, true metal dome similar to the original HP-15C. Keyboard colors identical to original HP-15C. The strong tactile feedback is not “in sync” with the key contact and it is possible to press a key and feel it “click” and not make contact. This appears to be in the design because it seems to apply to all keys. I have normal sized fingers with a lowered sense of “feel” so I simply press a bit harder. To address this issue I cut the erasure end off a pencil to use to press the keys. This “tool” fits nicely into the edge end of the soft case that comes with the calculator. The keyboard notations are clear and about as large as possible which is great for the visually impaired, i.e. over 40 years of age.
5. Display
The display may be compare with the HP versions and Michael elected to use upper case for the error messages, etc. This makes it even easier to read. The test display shown in the photo was produced when turning the calculator on while holding the multiply key down. RUNNING will flash four times first.
6. I/O Connector
An I/O connector is in the front edge. it is not a USB “B” connector but should not be difficult to find – according to Michael.
7. Speed
Not as fast as the 15C LE but quite close.
Conclusion. This is a very nice always-with-you high end scientific calculator that will provide 95% of all scientific calculations you will need to make. Its small size allows it to fit nicely (with my Sony DSC-TX1 camera) in my shirt pocket.
X < > Y,
Richard