Texas Instruments updates TI-84 Plus graphing calculator operating system to strengthen visual connection between textbook and calculator

Free OS update with MathPrint(TM) mode adds fraction math capabilities

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Mar 01, 2010, 11:00 ET

DALLAS, March 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Texas Instruments (TI) has released a new operating system update for its TI-84 Plus family of graphing calculators that helps educators and students make a stronger visual connection between the math in textbooks and on their handhelds.

The TI-84 Plus OS version 2.53MP with MathPrint™ mode enables users to input and view math symbols and formulas, including stacked fractions, in their handhelds exactly as the equations appear in textbooks. The latest OS version can be downloaded for free at www.education.ti.com/84. Educators also can use The TI-84 Plus OS version 2.53MP to update their TI-SmartviewTM emulator software.

In addition to the MathPrint mode, the update provides the following enhancements:

Fraction math with easy-to-use templates
Scrolling history to track past calculations and quickly recall an input or output
Number output format which allows users to choose how they prefer to view calculations on screen, as decimals or fractions.

"These enhancements came about directly as a result of feedback from educators who preferred the MathPrint format and the expanded fraction capabilities, both of which help provide a more consistent learning experience between the graphing calculators and textbooks," Gayle Mujica Director, Product Definition and Design said. "The free OS update gives educators the same capabilities on their calculators and TI-SmartView™ emulator software as students entering their class with a recently purchased TI-84 Plus family graphing calculator."

The new OS version 2.53 works with all TI-84 Plus graphing calculators, including TI-84 Plus Silver Edition and TI-84 Plus handhelds. More information is available at www.education.ti.com/84.

About Texas Instruments

Education Technology, a business of Texas Instruments, provides a wide range of tools connecting the classroom experience with real-world applications, helping students and teachers to explore math and science interactively. TI's products and services are tested vigorously against recognized third-party research, which shows that the use of graphing calculators helps improve the mathematical skills of students and their attitudes toward mathematics. For more information, visit www.education.ti.com.

Texas Instruments (NYSE: TXN) helps customers solve problems and develop new electronics that make the world smarter, healthier, safer, greener and more fun. A global semiconductor company, TI innovates through manufacturing, design and sales operations in more than 30 countries. For more information, visit www.ti.com.

Texas Instruments is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol TXN. More information is located on the World Wide Web at www.ti.com.

SOURCE Texas Instruments