History of Computers - Graphing Calculator

The Graphing calculator is a hand-held calculator that specifically has the ability to graph and plot mathematical equations. Many are also capable of solving simultaneous equations, organizing statistical data, and numerous other mathematical tasks involving variables and complex numbering.

Overview

The first graphing calculator to go on the market was the Casio product fx-7000G calculator in 1985.^[1]

Hewlett-Packard followed shortly afterward with multiple models.^[2]

TI took over the market in 1990 with its TI 81 calculator, which ensued with the TI 85 advanced graphing calculator in 1992.^[3]

Apple added competition with the Graphing Calculator computer program for Apple computers in 1994.^[4]

To add to its numerous uses, the graphing calculator is also easily programmable. Programs range from mathematical aids to engineering applications to video games.

Significance

The graphing calculator is essentially a computer itself. It's ability to graph points on a plane greatly aided many engineers and mathematicians, as they used to have to graph points by hand, which would inevitably lead to some degree of inaccuracy, as humans cannot graph points, especially those with irrational coordinates, accurately, as it is practically impossible to put a point at the exact right place. The only alternative was using software on a desktop, which had only been around for a little bit before graphing calculators, and desktops were not portable, which was very inconvenient. A graphing calculator has a similar purpose as the modern desktop, and its basic makeup is similar.^[5] As such, the creation of the graphing calculator was a significant achievement in the history of computers.Today graphing calculators are a big part of most higher level math courses. Texas Instruments has manufactured graphing calculators that have colored screens.