Texas Instruments’ BA real estate calculator is more powerful than its light, slim size suggests. Its face features keys that bankers, real estate agents, and students need most often to perform important calculations such as loan problems, payment schedules, and annual percentage rates.
The BA’s small keys are very responsive, and a shift button doubles the functions of many of them. Its small screen displays up to 10 digits. Text and symbols on the left-hand side prompt users for information in the order it’s needed to complete a calculation; it’s a snap to track how the data you’re keying in will affect the equation you’re solving. A backspace key let us easily correct mistakes without having to clear an entire line. We also were able to establish qualifying ratios and save local tax and insurance rates to memory for use in later calculations.
Professionals can make calculations immediately, and students will appreciate the detailed instruction manual, replete with examples. Texas Instruments even included a set of handy worksheets with common calculations such as amortization schedules, various loan qualifications, and adjustable versus fixed-rate interest; printed on the worksheets are complete instructions for performing the calculations on the BA. Beginners will find this a snap to use without having to memorize multiple keys and abbreviations. The BA comes with a plastic cover that fits on the back of the device when the calculator is in use, and includes a quick reference card inside the cover in case you need a refresher.
Pros:
- Excellent documentation, complete with a quick-reference card and worksheet templates
- Device prompts users step by step through complex calculations
- Constants such as tax rates are easy to enter and update as necessary
Cons:
- Keypad is a little cramped
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