HP 40gs HP 39gs_40gs_Mastering The Graphing Calculator_English_E_F2224-90010.p - Page 227
Different models use different methods to communicate, Mini Serial cable
UPC - 882780045217
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Different models use different methods to communicate As has been discussed on page 7, the hp 39gs and hp 40gs were aimed at different markets. Both of them require communication with a PC and so both come with a standard "mini-USB" port and cable. The mini-USB cable (shown left) is identical to one commonly used with digital cameras and replacements can be bought very cheaply in any electronics store. Mini USB cable Mini Serial cable Although communication with a PC is identical on both models, the similarity ends there. On the hp 39gs communication between calculators is accomplished using the infra-red port. This is very similar in operation to that of a remote control. Communication is only possible over a very short distance - up to about 8cm. In the markets for which the hp 40gs was designed infra-red communication was not considered desirable and a mini-serial cable connection is used instead. This cable (shown above right) connects two hp 40gs calculators via their mini-serial ports. It is an HP proprietary cable which can only be purchased from HP or an HP reseller. Both cables are supplied with the hp 40gs calculator as standard equipment but the hp 39gs is supplied standard with only the mini-USB cable because there is normally no need for the mini-serial cable with an hp 39gs. The mini-serial port is still present though because it is anticipated that it may be used in the future to connect to data-loggers and other possible peripherals. Mini-serial port Infra-red port Mini-USB port If you are using the cable on an hp 40gs then alignment of the calculators is obviously not a problem. For infra-red, of course, it is. Look at the keyboard side of the calculator, near the HP label above the screen, you'll find a small black triangle. This marks the position of the infra-red port so that you can line up calculators when looking down from above. 227