Customer Reviews

Texas Instruments TI503SV Calculator

5 star:		(5)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I bought this calculator to keep in my desk drawer for simple problems of the four basic mathematical functions. I also have a TI-30Xa scientific calculator in there, but it is much more cumbersome to use, particularly when using memory functions. This is an extremely basic calculator, has very large numbers for ease of reading, and is very inexpensive, making it perfect for general use around the house, like balancing the checkbook. It actually can take square roots and do percentage problems, so basic math students could rely on it for elementary math work.

The one annoyance I had with the calculator concerns the instructions: you have to download them from the web in a PDF file; none are included in the package. (Not that you really need them for anything.) Although TI didn't include instructions, they did include an enormous and unwieldy, multi-lingual product registration sheet in the package in an apparent attempt to get customer names into their database (no doubt for marketing reasons.) I can't imagine someone paying postage to register a calculator that they paid five dollars for.

Despite the above nitpicky critique, I think this is a great little calculator, and I recommend it highly to anyone for their basic mathematical computations.

Looks sharp, buttons press easily and easy to read. But, I could really care less for that "off" button. It right above the divide button, and I always seem to hit the "off" button when using it, or trying to clear the screen. Other then that, its an efficient calculator that can do a lot more equations then a regular calculator can do.

While my primary calculator is my TI-89 (a high-level graphing calculator), there are times when the four function calculator comes in handy. When it comes to tutoring elementary students, performing a simple calculation using one of the four functions, or occasions where the TI-89's AAA batteries have died, nothing beats the TI-503SV. I've had this calculator for many years and have never had a problem with it.

The size of the calculator is a definite plus. It fits nicely in a shirt pocket without creating a bulge. It also is the right size for a purse--I bought one for my grandmother, who carries it her purse to calculate tips at restaurants.

Ease of use is a definite plus with this machine. The numbers are crisp and large unlike many other pocket-sized four function calculators I've encountered over the years. All four basic operations plus square roots can be performed using this machine. There is also a memory function.

My favorite feature of this calculator is that it is battery-powered, not solar powered. In rooms where lighting is less than ideal the calculator will still work fine. To save battery life, Texas Instruments included a handy "off" button; the calculator will also shut off after a period of inactivity.

I recommend this calculator for everyone--the convenience, ease of use, low price, and compact design make it ideal for all.

As the other reviewers have mentioned, the size is perfect, the buttons are responsive and the display is clear. I actually have a slightly older model, but this is another aspect of the calculator that is fantastic. I work in an insurance office and use it nearly daily. It is the calculator I bout when I started working 12 years ago. It is still going stong and I have never changed the battery.

I don't really know how it is possible, but it is true. Daily use for 12 years and it's like I just took it out of the box. I probably just jinxed myself but in any event, you can expect a long battery life along with the other benefits of the calculator. It's pretty much perfect for light home and office use.

I admit, I get very attached to items. When my jewel tone battery powered calculator that I've had for probably 20 years (which I bought for $1 at a garage sale) bit the dust, I was not looking forward to getting a replacement. I ordered three of these based upon the reviews and am extremely satisfied! It is not too big, not too small, the buttons are large and easy to use and the read-out is large enough to read without reading glasses. Actually, the whole thing is big enough to use and read without reading glasses. It is a bit larger than a Blackberry, with a slightly curved shape and is comfortable to hold. It is battery powered (which I wanted - solar is not reliable enough in dark rooms). It's easy to use for a technically challenged person like myself. It is a wonderful calculator!! I'm so glad I came to Amazon instead of wasting time at regular stores.

You know, when it comes to calculators you just can't beat Texas Instruments. They've been doing it longer and better than anyone else. Their machines are simple and easy to use, and for every day use you just can't beat the price. When I had a small business printing concert t-shirts, I bought 10 of this model for the people in my office. I only ended up needing 6, and gave the other 4 as stocking stuffers at Christmas! Great for young students, home bookkeepers, or simple office calculating.