TI 89 Graphing Calculator Vs. TI 84 Graphing Calculator
Many students in high school math and science classes find that a graphing calculator is more than a luxury, it is a necessity. Educators and students alike are using calculators more frequently every year. However, what is the best choice when choosing a calculator? Both the TI 89 and the TI 84 are attractive choices; their advantages are compared and contrasted here.
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The History of Texas Instruments Calculators
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Texas Instruments, a technology company, began creating handheld electronic calculators in the late 1960's. Throughout the following decades, advances in technology and the increased demand for consumer electronics led to more sophisticated handheld devices. In 1990, the first handheld graphing calculator, the TI 81, opened doors for new ventures in mathematical computing. The TI 84 and TI 89 models were developed next; both models, however, have experienced refining and development over time.
TI 84 Features
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The TI 84, now available as the TI 84 Plus and the TI 84 Plus Silver Edition, comes with several features to help the student succeed. The Memory ROM/RAM for the 84 Plus Silver Edition is 1.5 MB/24K, while the same for the 84 Plus is just 480K/24K. Regardless, these are both a significant jump from the TI 83 model at just 160K/24K. These calculators are also recommended for Algebra, Trigonometry, Statistics, Biology, and Physics.
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TI 89 Features
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The TI 89 is a step up from the traditional TI 84. Now available as the TI 89 Titanium, this calculator comes with Memory ROM/RAM at 2.5 MB/180K. TI boasts this as its most powerful graphing calculator; it is recommended for more college level classes than the TI 84. Texas Instruments suggests it for use in Calculus, AP Physics, Electrical Engineering and Linear Algebra. While it might be more complicated than the TI 84 model, it is certainly more powerful and advanced, performing many functions commonly found in a PDA.
The Factor of Standardized Tests
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One of the biggest factors in deciding what calculator to buy is the ability to use the calculator on high school standardized tests. The ACT and SAT, the two most common college entrance exams, have restrictions that prohibit the use of certain devices. The ACT allows the TI 84 in all models, but it prohibits the TI 89. The SAT allows both the TI 84 and the TI 89. Since these tests determine a great deal for post-high school education, familiarity with one's own calculator is key to success on the math portions.
Weighing the Products
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The TI 89 is clearly the stronger (and more expensive) of the two products. However, the plethora of features might confuse rather than aid the average high school student. The TI 84, powerful in its own right, provides all the necessary functions for average math and science projects.
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