Question 1

Which of the casio graphing calculators are best for school maths? (the fx-7400, fx-9750, fx-9860 or fx-cg20)

Accepted Answer

A difficult one! Forget the FX7400, it's an absolute disgrace to Casio: no matrix mode, no advanced statistical functions. In short a joke! The FX9750GII has these features but doesn't come with a natural display as standard. This means you won't get exact answers in terms of surds, pi or fractions and this is often a severe handicap in an exam. That said, it can easily be upgraded to the same operating system as the FX9860GII, which does have a natural display and allows you to add a whole range apps, including c.a.s. apps such as Algebra and CAS. These will take care of things like algebraic expansions, differentiation, indefinite integration etc, giving the answer in terms of x. Note, these apps are NOT allowed in GCE exams, but handy for coursework! Note, however, that upgrading will invalidate the Casio 3-year warranty. Mind you, this shouldn't be a problem because they are very reliable.The FX9860GII, has bigger display and it's also backlit for extra clarity (not that this is a problem on the FX9750GII). It feels more robust and of superior built quality.  The FXCG20 is a much more expensive calculator and uses superior technology. I suspect software developers will be more interested in developing apps for this one, than the other two, which good though they are, don't have the potential of this one. That said, at this point in time, for school use, you are unlikely to notice the difference.  Really, it's all down to price. So, in summary: money no object, get the FX-CG20. On a budget, look for a cheap FX9860GII and uprate it to FX9860GII spec. If want something better made and don't mind paying more or want the bother of upgrading, get the FX9860GII. Avoid the FX7400 no matter how cheap, that's my advice!

Question 2

Does this come with the USB lead etc?

Accepted Answer

Dear Maria. Yes, complete with USB lead and all standard accessories, in retail package.RegardsChris

Question 3

How does the device feel to use? Does it feel as solid as a Ti?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the TI you're comparing it with. Arguably more solid than a TI NSpire CX, because the panel is recessed (less likely to be damaged) and the keypad is every bit as good if not better. It also takes 4, AAA batteries, rather than an internal, rechargeable battery, and battery life is incredibly good. Power demand tends to be heavier on the TI. The TI NSpire CX CAS, however, is a much better calculator, but mostly banned for exam use.

Question 4

Does it have a comprehensive english handbook

Accepted Answer

Not as standard, only a quick-start guide is provided. A proper manual is well worth having because it gives in-depth details about all aspects of the calculator's features, such as statistical functions and programing commands. Try the site with four letters. A proper manual for the fx-9750GII is almost as good with regards to all but coverage of the e-ACT and S-SHT modes. A full manual in PDF form can be downloaded from the Casio website, free of charge. You can  get specialist manuals covering software development from Casio, and manuals aimed at particular courses for schools and colleges.

ASIN	B0023V5SPG
Batteries	4 A batteries required.
Best Sellers Rank	442,155 in Stationery & Office Supplies ( See Top 100 in Stationery & Office Supplies ) 90 in Graphing Calculators
Brand	Casio
Colour	blue/grey
Customer Reviews	4.6 4.6 out of 5 stars (292)
Date First Available	4 Dec. 2010
Guaranteed software updates until	unknown
Item Weight	220 g
Lines Per Page	4
Manufacturer	Casio
Manufacturer Part Number	FX-9860GII
Model Number	FX-9860GII
Number of Items	1
Product Dimensions	18.4 x 9.2 x 2.1 cm; 220 g

Casio FX-9860GII Advanced Graphic Calculator

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