HP 30b


The HP 30b is a programmable financial calculator from HP which was released on 7 January 2010. The HP 30b is an advanced version of the HP's prior model HP 20b. Featuring a two line alpha numeric display, ability to input data via Reverse Polish Notation, Algebraic and normal Chain algebraic methods, and twelve digit display.
This ARM powered calculator also has some limited scientific functions which is relatively rare in financial calculators. Also, it has a built in Black-Scholes Equation, for calculating theoretical premium for calls and puts, Modified Internal Rate of Return and Financial Management Rate of Return, a first.
It is one of the fastest calculators available, even faster than HP's flagship model 50g under normal usage conditions because the 30b runs native ARM code while the 50g emulates Saturn code even though it executes at 75 MHz. The 30b is also acclaimed by users for its improved rotate-and-click keys than the much criticized keys on the HP 20b.
The HP 30b is not allowed in any major exam like CFA Charter exam.

HP 40b

At some point HP planned to release a HP 40b, a version of the HP 30b with added USB port, the capability to load precompiled programs into the calculator from the PC and to use the calculator as an external keypad for a PC. However, only a few prototypes were ever produced.

WP 31S, WP 34S and WP 34C

As with the HP 20b, the HP 30b's firmware can be overwritten using a computer and a special cable. Taking advantage of this facility, a team of HP calculator enthusiasts has produced a firmware for converting the 30b into a programmable scientific calculator. The resulting WP 34S firmware and user's manual can be downloaded free of charge, and a special serial cable and keypad overlay can be purchased for a nominal fee. The WP 34S is also being sold commercially. A firmware branch with a complex number lock mode is called WP 34C. The WP 31S is a stripped-down version of the WP 34S.