HP 15c Collector's Edition User Manual

Section 11: Calculating With Complex Numbers 127
Entering Complex Numbers with −. The clearing functions − and
` can also be used with } as an alternative method of entering
(and clearing) complex numbers. Using this method, you can enter a
complex number using only the X-register, without affecting the rest of
the stack. (This is possible because − and ` disable stack lift.)
Executing } will also create an imaginary stack if one is not already
present.
Example: Enter 9 + 8i without moving the stack and then find its square.
Keystrokes
Display
(−)
(0.0000)
Prevents stack lift when the
next digit (8) is keyed in.
Omit this step if you’d rather
save what’s in X and lose
what’s in T.
8
8
Enter imaginary part first.
´ }
7.0000
Displays real part;
Complex mode activated.
−
0.0000
Disables stack. (Otherwise, it
would lift following }.)
9
9
Enters real part (digit entry
not terminated).
| x
17.0000
Real part.
´ % (hold)
(release)
144.0000
Imaginary part.
17.0000
Re Im Re Im Re Im Re Im
T
a b a b a b a b
Z
c d c d c d c d
Y
e f e f e f e f
X 4 7 0 7 8 7 7 8
Keys:
−
8
´ }

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.