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Photographic Ltd. The pocket version can be augmented by a mains connection which incorporates a small transformer thus by-passing the batteries. However, unlike some other calculators which also have a mains connection, this does not re-energise the batteries. For more robust desk use, the Prinztronic range also includes a desk version. Both have reasonably spaced keys and have adequate provision for the kind of use to which a road haulier would expect to put his calculator.
Sinclair Radionics Ltd produces the Cambridge range of pocket calculators, equally clear and objective in use and the Oxford desk version.
The pocket range comprises the Universal and the Memory and if it is considered that a memory is essential, then the choice is yours.
There is another type called the Scientific which I feel is not really suited for road haulage use.
Similarly, the Oxford desk calculator, which is also designated Universal is the model most suited for the haulage industry.
Launched only last September, the Sinclair Sovereign pocket calculator might be considered for pocket use. This is a slim calculator of appealing design but does not do anything more for the road haulier in negotiating with his customer than the cheaper Universal pocket type except perhaps add a bit of prestige. In a-hy case, it includes mathematical calculations which he will probably never
use such as square root.
The Eaglecliffe Co Ltd of Co Durham manufactures the Commodore or CBM range and its mini-calculator, not much bigger than a couple of matchboxes, seems handy and adequate for the road haulage function.
Another small pocket type is marketed by Decimo Ltd of Luton. This is another neat little calculator quite adequate for the road haulage operator and incorporates mark-up and discount on percentage calculations.
In the more expensive and much more sophisticated range, the Hewlett-Packard calculators are available also desk and pocket versions. However, this company produces a business and a management type, either of which would be suitable for the haulage operator if he is prepared to spend a little mori for such functions as compound or simple interest ilculations or a depreciation Inction.
,hop around
Prices are very much a latter of shopping around. he simple calculator can be btained for £5 or even less ihile it is possible to spend in xcess of £60 for more omplicated machines.
But the same model will ost up to E2 cheaper at lifferent shops, and it is not Mays the apparently cheapest outlet which sells calculators at he cheapest price. Only by poking around and comparing he prices for comparable nodels at the shops in your rrea will you be able to buy at he cheapest price.
As to the cos‘rlf running hem, it is almosermpossible to xedict how much batteries will cost and how often these will lave to be changed. It all Jepends on the amount of use to which the calculator is put.
Cadmiun nickel batteries last longer but are more expensive — up to about 20p each in some cases — and as four of these are normally required this amounts to 80p every battery change.
As already pointed out, when batteries are becoming well discharged the accuracy of the calculator suffers. It is, therefore, not a good idea to use them till they are fully discharged unless your calculator incorporates a lock-out device to indicate the need for new batteries.
One more word of warning on batteries. Do make sure that the replacement batteries which you buy will actually fit the calculator and do not depend on the recommended type to fit.
One of my colleagues bought the recommended type of replacement battery for his calculator only to find that the back of the calculator would not lock into place when the new battery was inserted.
The moral is plain, take the calculator with you when you buy a replacement battery and fit it in the shop,