HP-34C
The HP-34C continuous memory calculator is an advanced scientific programmable calculator of the HP 30 series. It was produced between 1979 and 1983.
Features
Root-finding and integration
Significant to the HP-34C calculator is the capability for integration and root-finding. Integration and root-finding works by having the user input a formula as a program. Multiple roots are found using the technique of first finding a root, then dividing the equation by, thus driving the solution of the equation away from the root at that point. This technique for multiple root-finding is referred to as "deflation". The user would usually programmatically recall the root value from a storage register to improve its precision.Programming
The common method of converting registers to program memory allowed the calculator a maximum of 210 program steps. Programming features such as indirect jumps provides substantial capability to the calculator's programmer.The HP-34C shipped with an "applications" manual that included two games. The winner was announced via calculator spelling by turning the display upside down and the words BLISS or I'LOSE were displayed. A game of blackjack was easily programmable by converting some of the registers to lines of program.
Pedigree
The calculator was superseded, in 1982, by the HP-15C.Although it is argued the HP-41C was a replacement for the HP-34C, they were in fact differentiated as much by price as by functionality and performance. This price difference allowed those with economic constraints to still buy a high-end HP scientific programmable within a reasonable cost. As such they were sold side-by-side for a number of years.