Step 3. Choosing the right Calculator for me?

First, some basics.

NCEES (the people who write the exam) announces a new calculator policy in early November of each year. They are very strict about their rules so don't even think about getting around them. Recently a Puerto Rican court awarded significant damages to NCEES in an exam theft case.


From the current calculator policy:

Examples of acceptable Casio fx-115 models include but are not limited to:
	fx-115 MS fx-115 MS Plus fx-115 MS SR fx-115 ES

The HP 33s and HP 35s models are the only acceptable HP calculators.

Examples of acceptable TI-30X and TI-36X models include but are not limited to:
	TI-30Xa TI-30Xa SOLAR TI-30Xa SE TI-30XS Multiview TI-30X IIB TI-30X IIS TI-36X II TI-36X SOLAR

So which calculator do I really need for the exam?

If you really know the material, any of the models listed will suffice. Many Professional Surveyors argue that any calculator that does basic trig functions is all you need.

So why the big deal over which calculator is best for me?

While it is true that the basic capabilities of each of these calculators is the same, there are some important differences. I know nothing of the Casio models listed. But a quick Google check indicates that these models are not programmable. I have a TI-30XA on my desk. I've used that thing I bet going on 15 years or more. It does fine for quick basic calculations. But it too is not programmable.

That leaves the HP 33S and HP 35S. They are programmable.

If I don't really need anything other than basic functions, why is my calculator being programmable such a big deal?

It is true that most everything you'll need to do on the exam can be handled by basic functions. The problem is using those basic functions to solve the more complex questions (like something as simple as a bearing bearing intersection) takes time.

Time is the most precious commodity you have on exam day. Anything that can save you time can make the difference between success and failure. Having a calculator with some programs (and equations) buys you time.

Does this mean every student should have one of the HP Calculators for study and exam taking?

Few rules have truly universal application. If you know your trusty Casio or TI like the back of your hand, you might wish to stick with it. If you can work trig functions and perform polar to rectangular conversions in your sleep with one of the allowed models, stick with it.

If you will be starting fresh with a calculator, I highly suggest you get one of the HP models. You might as well learn a model that will give you the most flexibility and advantage.

Land Surveyors Workshops is one resource for programs for the HP 33S plus HP35S Programs and calculators.

LSW also has video materials that can help the neophyte learn the calculator.

Surveying Mathematics with the HP 35S

Math Practice Exams with the HP 35S

Surveying Calculations with the HP 33S.

Surveying Mathematics with the HP 33S


So which HP is better, the 33s or the 35s?

Better is a very subjective term. Each model has it's own strengths and weaknesses.

The 33s is slightly less expensive when you can find one. (LSW stopped selling the 33S because we had very real difficulty getting them.)

The 35s comes with a hard case and much better keys.

Frankly, neither of these calculators is likely to become the old friend you'll have and use for the next couple of decades. They pretty much fill one function. Used properly, they can help you pass the exam.

Larry P