This is a new design I have been working on for a couple of weeks now. I don’t really like calculators with a “laptop” design, but I decided to give it a chance and this is what I ended with.

Well the keyboard is placed with the same configuration of the HP49 because I think it is a good layout. To the right of the keyboard there is a display-touchpad which can be used as a second 100% configurable keyboard or just as a touch pad. I know that there is nothing like the feeling of pressing real buttons, but I use my Palm’s calculator once in a while and it’s no too bad to press the buttons on the screen. This touchpad opens many possibilities and it’s already found in some laptops.

It has a wide TFT screen with back-light that is touch-sensitive too. It opens completely flat to allow hand writing input of formulas and data. (I will include an image in a few days).

There is a connector in the back for USB and a bay for a memory card. The power button is on the right side of the calculator. The arrows are positioned in the left side and can be accessed with the screen closed to allow control of functions like a mp3 player or alarm off.

I will include more information and graphics in a few days. I am working in another design, more directed to high school students with a more “cool” look.

Thanks for your attentions, and I will appreciate any comments.

marturo@pasto.com

Marino Arturo