Chinese 12Cs better now?

[joe locket]

Not meaning to open a can of worms, but I'm wondering if the Chinese-built 12Cs (which are routinely slammed on these boards) are actually improving? Could it be HP has listened to the criticisms and have improved the build quality?

I only say this because I recently bought a vintage 12C made in Brazil in 1990. According to the archives, these are supposed to be just as good as the USA-made calculators -- both of which are supposedly superior to the Chinese models.

Admitted I may have had unrealistic expectations, but I have to say I'm not blown away. Several of the Brazil model's keys are mashed down and the clicks are dull. Some may say that's because the unit is old. Maybe -- but isn't standing the test of time supposed to be the hallmark of the classic 12C? And the unit is no studier than my chinese 12C. Also, when I shake the Brazilian unit, there's some key rattling (a top gripe held against the Chinese model).

This isn't a criticism and I don't have any proof to back it up. I too have seen the early Chinese 12Cs. They were relatively flimsy and the buttons were weak. It might be interesting to compare quality based on serial numbers.

Is it possible the new 12Cs have returned closer to the "good old days" quality of H-P in the early 1980s?

[bill platt]

16 years old, unknown history. What else can I say?

[Randy]

Bravo, Bill. I second with:

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Could it be HP has listened to the criticisms and have improved the build quality?

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Is this a trick question?

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I only say this because I recently bought a vintage 12C made in Brazil in 1990.

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Vintage, yes, lightly used, no way.

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According to the archives, these are supposed to be just as good as the USA-made calculators -- both of which are supposedly superior to the Chinese models.

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Yes, they are. Good man, you did your homework.

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Several of the Brazil model's keys are mashed down and the clicks are dull. Some may say that's because the unit is old.

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Nah, just beaten on for 16 years. You'd be flat too with that treatment.

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This isn't a criticism and I don't have any proof to back it up. I too have seen the early Chinese 12Cs. They were relatively flimsy and the buttons were weak. It might be interesting to compare quality based on serial numbers.

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There is nothing to compare. They aren't same quality, period.

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Is it possible the new 12Cs have returned closer to the "good old days" quality of H-P in the early 1980s?

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Is this a trick question?

Sorry, I couldn't resist :)

Seriously, find yourself a neglected USA, Singapore or Brazilian unit and you will not be disappointed.

PS: What's the serial number of yours? I might be willing to do a swap if it has parts I can use.

Edited: 23 Feb 2006, 8:12 p.m.

[joe locket]

Randy,

Thanks for the play-by-play analysis. I'm willing to be convinced.

Also, it's very generous of you to offer a swap. What are you willing to swap for my Brazilian unit? I don't have the serial # on me, but will get it later. Thanks!

[Stephen Easterling]

Hmmm! I have a Chinese 12C (SN CNG45207252) and it work flawlessly and feels as strong as a little brick (just like my USA 12C). Compared to the 12CP, my Chinese 12C is much better and I can't tell much difference between it and the USA model. Maybe quality control has improved over time.

[joe locket]

Maybe we're on to something. My serial is very close to yours: CNG45009226

[Randy]

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What are you willing to swap for my Brazilian unit?

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A USA or Singapore without the keyboard issues. Cosmetics same or better.

Edited: 25 Feb 2006, 7:47 a.m.

[joe locket]

The serial is 3030Bxxxxx. I'd be very appeciative if you would swap for a USA unit. I'll try to find your e-mail address and e-mail you directly. Thanks!