Written by Doug Bell
Version 0.1.2
November 24, 2003
rpcCalc is the console version of my rpCalc RPN calculator. It is based on Python's curses module, so it starts quickly, has few dependencies, and runs in any console or terminal. But it's still easy to use, showing buttons for every available command. The commands can be typed, or a mouse can be used (if supported by the terminal).
Since I'm not in the software business, I'm making this program free for anyone to use, distribute and modify, as long as it is not incorporated into any proprietary programs. If you like the software, feel free to let others know about it. And let me know what you think - my e-mail address is doug101 AT bellz DOT org
rpcCalc is free software; you can redistribute it and/or modify it under the terms of the GNU General Public License as published by the Free Software Foundation; either Version 2 of the License, or (at your option) any later version.
This program is distributed in the hope that it will be useful, but WITHOUT ANY WARRANTY. See the LICENSE file provided with this program for more information.
rpcCalc requires Python (Version 2.2 or higher) and the ncurses library. This library is usually standard on Linux/Unix variants, but not on other systems.
Extract the source files from the rpccalc tar file, then change to the rpcCalc directory in a terminal. For a basic installation, simply execute the following command as root: python install.py
To see all install options, use: python install.py -h
To install rpcCalc with a different prefix (the default is /usr/local), use: python install.py -p /prefix/path
If you know how to use an RPN calculator (like Hewlett-Packard models), you know how to use rpcCalc. It stores previous results in four registers (usually labeled X, Y, Z and T), and the numbers are entered before the operators.
The quickest way to enter numbers and the four basic operators is to use the number pad on the keyboard. For the other keys, the name on the key can be typed (not case-sensitive). What has been typed shows up in the box below the keys. The tab key may be used to automatically complete a partially typed command. Of course, the mouse may also be used to hit any key.
A few keys have unusual labels to allow them to be typed: "RCIP" is 1/X, "tn^X" is 10^X, "R<" rolls the stack back (or down), "R>" rolls the stack forward (or up), "x<>y" is exchange, "CLR" clears the registers, "DEG" toggles between degrees and radians, and "<-" is backspace.
A few commands ("STO", "RCL" and "PLCS") prompt for a number from zero through nine. This number will be the memory register number or the number of decimal places for the display.
Options for controlling the numeric display include the previously mentioned "PLCS" for entering the number of decimal places, and "SCI", which toggles between normal and scientific notation. There is also the "SHOW" command, which temporarily displays scientific notation with more than 12 significant figures, then goes back to normal when the next command (or a repeated "SHOW" command) is given.
An information window is displayed if the "INFO" command is given. Initially, this shows the contents of the four registers and the ten memory registers. Typing an "H" changes it to a history view, showing equations for recent calculations. Typing an "R" takes it back to the register view. Any other key closes the info window, going back to the calculator.
Initial release.
I can be contacted by email at: doug101 AT bellz DOT org
I
welcome any feedback, including reports of any bugs you find. Also,
you can periodically check back to <www.bellz.org> for
any updates.