In-Depth Review: Fx-991ES Plus Scientific Calculator
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| fx-991ES Plus Scientific Calculator |
The fx-991ES Plus is a legendary workhorse in the world of scientific calculators. A direct successor to the original fx-991ES, it built upon a proven formula to become one of the most popular and trusted calculators for students and professionals alike, particularly in the years before the ClassWiz series emerged. It strikes a perfect balance between advanced functionality, user-friendly design, and affordability.
First Impressions and Build Quality
Design: The calculator features a classic, straightforward design. While later models like the ClassWiz adopted a sleek black finish, the ES Plus often came in a more traditional silver and dark blue casing. The layout is logical and clean, with clearly labeled keys grouped by function. The buttons provide a positive, clicky feedback that is reliable and helps prevent accidental presses.
Display: The key feature of this model is Casio's Natural Textbook Display. This is a two-line display: the top line can show fractions, exponents, integrals, and square roots exactly as they are written in a textbook, while the bottom line shows the traditional single-line calculation. This was a revolutionary step up from older single-line calculators, as it allows users to verify their input easily and reduces syntax errors.
Key Features and Functionality
The fx-991ES Plus is packed with features that cover a vast range of mathematical needs, from high school to university-level STEM courses.
Advanced Mathematical Functions:
Equation Solvers: It can solve systems of linear equations (2 or 3 unknowns) and polynomial equations (quadratic and cubic).
Matrix Calculations: Supports calculations with matrices up to 3x3, including addition, subtraction, multiplication, determinant, and transpose.
Vector Calculations: Handles vector calculations, a boon for physics and engineering students.
Complex Number Calculations: Performs arithmetic operations and calculations with complex numbers.
Base-n Calculations: Allows conversions and calculations between decimal, hexadecimal, binary, and octal bases.
Statistical and Regression Analysis: It offers a comprehensive suite of statistical functions, including standard deviation, regression analysis (linear, quadratic, logarithmic, exponential, etc.), and probability distributions.
Fraction and Metric Conversion: It handles fractions and mixed fractions with ease and includes a built-in conversion function for a wide array of scientific constants and metric prefixes.
Table Function (f(x)): A highly useful feature for visualizing functions. You can input a function (e.g., f(x) = 2x+3) and generate a table of values for x and f(x). This is incredibly helpful for graphing by hand and understanding the behavior of equations.
Performance and Usability
Ease of Use: The menu system, navigated by the handy "MODE" key, is intuitive. The "ALPHA" key (in red) and "SHIFT" key (in yellow) provide access to all the secondary functions clearly marked above the keys. The learning curve is minimal.
Power: It operates on solar power with a button cell (LR44) backup, ensuring it never runs out of power during an exam, even in poor lighting conditions. This dual-power system is highly reliable.
Non-Programmable: A crucial feature for its target audience. It is approved for use on almost all major standardized exams (SAT, ACT, AP, IB, PSAT/NMSQT, etc.) where programmable or graphing calculators are prohibited.
Target Audience
This calculator is an ideal tool for:
High School Students taking Algebra, Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Physics, Chemistry, and Statistics.
University Students in introductory engineering, mathematics, and science courses.
Professionals who need a reliable, powerful, and approved calculator for quick calculations on the job.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Excellent Value: Offers an incredible range of advanced features at a very affordable price point.
Natural Textbook Display: Drastically improves readability and reduces input errors compared to older models.
Widely Approved: A safe and trusted choice for standardised testing.
Robust and Reliable: Built to last with a proven track record of durability.
Intuitive Interface: Easy to learn and use without constantly consulting the manual.
Cons:
Aged Design: Compared to the newer fx-991EX ClassWiz, the screen is smaller and lower resolution. The menu system feels less graphical and modern.
Slower Processor: Can feel slightly slower when performing very complex matrix or statistical calculations compared to the ClassWiz series.
Lacks Advanced Features: It does not have the spreadsheet mode, QR code capability, or higher-order matrix/equation functions (e.g., 4x4 matrices) of its successor, the fx-991EX.
Final Verdict
The Casio fx-991ES Plus is a timeless classic. It is not the newest or flashiest model on the market, but it remains an exceptionally capable, reliable, and trustworthy scientific calculator. It delivers all the essential advanced functions a student needs in a user-friendly and exam-friendly package.
Rating: 4.8/5 Stars
While the newer fx-991EX ClassWiz has now superseded it with a better screen and more features, the fx-991ES Plus continues to be a fantastic and often more budget-friendly choice. If you don't need the spreadsheet or highest-level math functions, the ES Plus represents one of the best values in scientific calculation history. It is a tool that will faithfully and effectively see you through your academic career.
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| Barnd | Scientific |
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| Product Category | Stationery & Craft / School & Office Equipment / Calculators |
| Package Dimensions (CM) | 165 X 80 X 5 |
| Weight | 0.3 Kg -/+ |
| Product SKU | 6953048609916 |
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