HP HP-16C - Section 1: Getting Started

Section 1
Getting Started
This section provides a detailed orientation to general use of the
HP-16C: digit entry, display clearing, the use of and RPN
(Reverse Polish Notation), and Continuous Memory. Although the
examples use Integer mode, all features operate identically in
Integer and Fleating-Point Decimal modes unless otherwise
indicated. This material has been written primarily for those
unfamiliar with these features of current Hewlett-Packard
calculators.
Power On and Off
The key turns the HP-16C on and off.* To conserve power, the
calculator automatically turns itself off after a few minutes of
inactivity.
Keyboard Operation
Primary and Alternate Functions
Most keys on your HP-16C perform one primary and two alternate
(“shifted”) functions.” To select the primary function printed on the
face of a key, press only that key. For example: [£]. To select the
alternate function printed in gold above the key or in blue below
the key, press the like-colored prefix key ([f] or (g]) followed by the
function key. For example: and [9](DBL=].
*Note the key is lower than the other keys to prevent its being inadvertently pressed.
TThroughout this handbook, we will observe certain conventions in referring to
functions. References to the function itself will appear as just the function name in a
box, such as “the [MEM] function.” References to using the key will include the prefix
key, such as “press (9][MEM].” References to the functions printed in gold under the
brackets labeled “CLEAR,” “SET COMPL,” or “SHOW” will be preceded by the word
“CLEAR,” “SET COMPL,” or “SHOW,” such as “the CLEAR function” or “press (f]
SHOW [DEC].”
When a prefix key can be followed by any of several keys, the reference will specify the
possible keys in braces. For example, “press {0to7}".
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