Education Technology

Solution 12264: Error Displayed When Performing Long Calculations Using the TI-30Xa Scientific Calculator.

Why does my TI 30Xa display an error when I perform long calculations?

The TI-30Xa uses a AOS (Algebraic Operating System) which means it stores up to 4 pending operations in memory (2 when STAT is displayed). Equations with 5 or more pending operations violate this limitation causing the calculator to display an error. (see the example below)

Example: 11757 + 3 * (500 + 7 * (138 + 257))

The calculation has been broken down to display the number of operations it will take to solve completely: 

1) Pending calculation #1: 11757+3 
2) Pending calculation #2: 3*(500 
3) Pending calculation #3: 500+7
4) Pending calculation #4: 7*(138
5) Attempted operation #5: 138+ (Errors with the 5th pending operation (+))

Please see the TI-30Xa guidebook for additional information.