I've always wanted an HP12C (I currently have a 41CV which I love) - but there seem to be a number of variations on the 12C that are currently available. Regular, Platinum, and 25th Anniversary. The things that I love about the old HP calculatars are:
1) Fit and finnish/Durability 2) RPN 3) High quality tactile feedback of the key presses. 4) Overall logic/layout/programability
Of the HP 12C models that are available now which comes closest to the old HP 12C ideals?
BTW, I am undecided on the utility of having an algebraic mode - I don't know if I consider that a plus or a minus. I don't think I will use it - and I dislike having the solutions/documentation provided in the algebraic format. I have downloaded a bunch of 12C documentation and exercises from HP and other places that use the stanard HP12C RPN format - and I have a 12C windows emulator that I'm playing with - but I find that simulations simpley increase one's appreciation of the genuine article. ;-)
Also, 12Cs on e-bay seem to go for nearly the price of a new one off amazon or somewhere else.
Finally, I'm undecided as to whether the speed improvements on the newer models are of interest to me. I find that my "think time" working with a calculator far exeeds the "wait time" of running the programs or formulating the problem. I'm not trying to save money though and could be convinced otherwise.
Anyone have any opinions? ;-)
Thanks,
Kevin