HP 30 series
| Company type | Product line |
|---|---|
| Industry | Electronics, Calculators |
| Founded | 1978 |
| Founder | Hewlett-Packard |
| Defunct | 1983 (end of production for most models) |
| Products | Scientific handheld calculators (HP-31E, HP-32E, HP-33E/C, HP-34C, HP-37E, HP-38E/C) |
| Parent | Hewlett-Packard |
The HP-30 series, also referred to as the Spice series, comprises scientific handheld calculators utilizing RPN that Hewlett-Packard launched in 1978. Certain versions within this lineup support programmability.
Overview
The Spice or HP-30 series was presumably developed as a successor to the older HP-20 series. It offers enhanced display clarity through larger numerals and the inclusion of commas, although it does not support expansion options.
Among the entry-level variants are the HP-31E and HP-32E, both lacking programmability; notably, the HP-31E includes a self-test feature. Financial professionals were the target users for the HP-37E and HP-38E/C models.
The batteries can be replaced by users without requiring special tools, with the battery compartments secured via screws.
Programming
Models capable of programming include the HP-33E/C, which allows 49 steps plus subroutines; the HP-34C with 70 steps; and the HP-38E/C supporting up to 99 steps. The "C" versions provide non-volatile memory retention.
Manufacture of the HP-31E concluded in 1980, while production of other Spice models ended in 1983. These calculators have earned a reputation among engineers for their robust build quality, tactile key response, and practical functionality.
Simulators and emulators
- HP Calculator emulators available for Linux platforms
Features
- Fundamental scientific calculation capabilities
- Statistical functions (available on HP-32E, HP-37E, HP-38E/C)
- Numerical integration (specific to HP-34C)
- Keystroke programming that supports branching, looping, conditional tests, and flag operations