HP 15c Collector's Edition User Manual

Section 2: Numeric Functions 29
Two-Number Functions
The HP 15c performs two-number math functions using two values
entered sequentially into the display. If you are keying in both numbers,
remember that they must be separated by v or any other
function—like | ‘ or ⁄—that terminates digit entry.
For a two-number function, the first value entered is considered the y-
value because it is placed into the Y-register for memory storage. The
second value entered is considered the x-value because it remains in the
display, which is the X-register.
The arithmetic operators, +, -, *, and ÷, are the four basic two-
number functions. Others are given below.
The Power Function
Pressing y calculates the value of y raised to the x power. The base
number, y, is keyed in before the exponent, x.
To Calculate Keystrokes Display
2
1.4
2 v 1.4 y
2.6390
2
−1.4
2 v 1.4 ” y
0.3789
(−2)
3
2 ” v 3 y
-8.0000

2
3
or 2
⅓
2 v 3 ⁄ y
1.2599
Percentages
The percentage functions, k and ∆, preserve the value of the original
base number along with the result of the percentage calculation. As
shown in the example below, this allows you to carry out subsequent
calculations using the base number and the result without re-entering the
base number.
Percent. The k function calculates the specified percentage of a base
number.

HP 15c Collector's Edition Specifications

General

Model	HP 15c Collector's Edition
Category	Calculator
Type	Scientific
Power Source	Battery
Manufacturer	HP
Display	LCD
Functions	complex numbers, matrix operations

Summary

Introduction

This Handbook

Outlines the structure of the manual, detailing its parts and how to use it for learning.

The HP Community

Discusses user groups and websites for HP calculator enthusiasts and information sharing.

Part I: HP 15c Fundamentals

Section 1: Getting Started

Covers basic operations like powering on, keyboard layout, and primary/alternate functions.

Section 2: Numeric Functions

Explains essential numeric operations including logs, trig, powers, and conversions.

Section 3: The Automatic Memory Stack, LAST X, and Data Storage

Details the RPN stack, LAST X register, and data storage operations.

Part II: HP 15c Programming

Section 6: Programming Basics

Introduces core programming concepts: creating, loading, running programs, and memory.

Section 8: Program Branching and Controls

Covers controlling program flow using branching, loops, and conditional tests.

Part III: HP 15c Advanced Functions

Section 11: Calculating With Complex Numbers

Covers entering, manipulating, and performing calculations with complex numbers.

Section 12: Calculating With Matrices

Explains matrix operations, including dimensioning, element access, and calculations.

Section 13: Finding the Roots of an Equation

Details using the SOLVE function for numerical root finding and equation solving.

Section 14: Numerical Integration

Explains how to perform numerical integration using the ∫f(x)dx key and subroutines.

Appendix A: Error Conditions

Error 8: No Root

Explains the error when the SOLVE function cannot find a root.

Error 0: Improper Mathematics Operation

Lists and explains errors related to mathematical operations and illegal arguments.

Appendix D: A Detailed Look at SOLVE

How SOLVE Works

Explains the numerical technique and logic behind the SOLVE algorithm.

Finding Several Roots

Discusses methods for finding multiple roots of an equation using the SOLVE function.