Product Review
The EL-506RB is a beefed-up alternative to Sharp's EL-531RB line, offering more functions (330, to be exact), limited programmability, a dual solar/battery power supply, among other features, without adding much to the price. This calculator retains the best features of those other products, like the two-line display (12 digits as opposed to 10) and integrated plastic cover that slides up and flips down to conform to the back of the device without detaching.
The two-line display will be of greatest interest to prospective buyers, and it's a feature not normally associated with products in this price range. As you enter data, your entire equation is displayed on the upper line, while the information you are currently entering is shown on the bottom line. That way, you can check your work for mistakes before calculating the results. If something is amiss, you can use the arrow keys at the top of the keypad to navigate through the equation and make appropriate changes. The calculator also maintains a history of your equations, so you can press the up arrow to browse backward through equations you entered anywhere from a few minutes ago to several months ago, as long as you haven't exceeded the storage capacity of the memory buffer (the oldest equations are removed from the list to free up space when this happens).
As for usability, it's hard to find fault with the EL-506RB's design. The keys are responsive, and the fact you can see everything you've entered at once really cuts down on mistakes. There are two function keys that let you set up a standard formula and then assign it to one of the keys for easy recall later. Along with all that, this inexpensive calculator can handle one- and two-variable statistics, differential and integral calculus equations, physics constants, and nearly anything else a high school or college course will throw at it. It's an exceptional value, marred only by skimpy documentation. --T. Byrl Baker
Pros:
330 built-in functions and very basic programmability features
Unbelievable price/performance ratio
12-digit, two-line display with browsable and editable calculation history
Clever sliding plastic cover that doesn't detach from the unit
Cons:
Poor documentation
Product Description
10-digit, 326 function two-line display with d.a.l. advanced scientific calculator. Features direct algebraic logic, guidance display and answer memory. Includes 326 functions, 40 physical constants and 32 metric conversions. Conversions and calculations in HEX, BIN, OCT and decimal. Floating or fixed decimal. Differential and integral calculus functions. Seven memories. Replacement batteries: 1.5 volt silver-oxide button cell.