• 1982

Hardware Description

A slim, elegant, and useful model, the Canon F-73P is a nice example of a programmable scientific calculator. That despite the fact that its programming model is somewhat limited: 45 partially merged steps isn't a great deal of program memory, and the inability to edit/view programs is annoying. That said, 45 partially merged steps can be quite useful, especially when the calculator does offer limited decision-making capabilities: in the case of the F-73P, the ability to execute conditional and unconditional jumps within the code. In fact, it is this what distinguishes a true computer from a mere automaton; I guess the F-73P would qualify as a device banned by the Great Convention in Frank Herbert's immortal Dune!