HP 48GX Calculator - Software Lock

[golden79]

Hi,

My HP 48GX is locked on the "Try To Recover Memory?" screen on the display. The function keys for "Yes" and "No" do not respond. I've tried to reset by using a paper clip to depress the reset button located under the right top foot pad, but the calculator always starts up with the same screen and indication indicated above. Does anyone know how to reset this calculator to function properly?

Regards,

Golden79

[BartdB · Accepted solution]

Try pressing on the bezel, between the display and the soft keys, while you press a key. The rubber support inside, tends to deteriorate.

Here is a thread that discusses the problem:

http://www.hpmuseum.org/cgi-sys/cgiwrap/hpmuseum/archv019.cgi?read=151696

Regards

Bart

[golden79]

Thanks Bart, I was able to resolve the software lock by removing the batteries and letting the calculator sit for 12 hours. The tech support info online indicates that this procedure can take up to 48 hours. It worked for me after only 12 hours.

Your work around method for the top row of function buttons works. I was able to get the buttons to work by depressing the bezel just below the display. Prior to this, I was applying a lot of force and pressing multiple times before I could get the buttons to work.

I was looking for a solution or fix for this issue and saw online where a guy was able to fix the problem with the buttons by opening up the case, but it's very difficult to do with out damaging the case and leaving an ugly looking calculator.

I started prying up the top of the case with my finger nails near the display and the case top would flex open a few millimeters. I then snaped the case back to its original position. The top row of function keys started to work with out having to depress the bezel below the dispay. So the result is that my hp 48gx is working like new.

Thank you for your assistance. I hope my 48gx continues to perform as expected. It's too bad hp discontinued this model. I like the design better than their current models.

Regards,

golden79

[BartdB]

The opening up of a 48 can be a problem. I have recently successfully opened a 48SX without too much damage, but I haven't closed it again - and that's where the trouble is going to be. The heat stakes are not seating properly, and to get to the tops of the heat stakes when inserting them I will have to remove the keyboard faceplate - which potentially could leave it ugly with bends and wrinkles.

I have the 50g. It has a much nicer sreen, both bigger and clearer. the 49's are things to avoid though - flakey keys etc. The biggest gripe about the 50g is that the ENTER key has moved to the right bottom of the keyboard - probably to satisfy the algebraic users (the 50g has both RPN and algebraic mode).

However, the 50g has been around for a few years so many of us are hoping for something new that will be as good to use in this modern day as the 48 series was in it's day.

Hope yours keeps working for a long time. By the way, almost un-used 48gx can be obtained online for a good price with some patience.

Regards

Bart

[golden79]

I've read where it's possible to open a 48 by releasing the cover latches with a thin tool, such as a jeweler's screwdriver, through the notches for the keyboard overlay and pushing the case side walls outward. You don't need to remove the faceplate or cut the the tops off the heat stakes. There are several articles online with diagrams that show the latch configuration and describe their locations relative to the keyboard keys. Although, I would expect some slight scaring in the process unless you had a very special tool made and used it with extreme care.

When the 49 series came out, I bought two more 48GXs, because it appeared HP was moving in the wrong direction and I thought the 48GX would be the end of the quality line. The 49 series appears to be targeted for the student market. Also, there's always speculation that HP will drop the handheld calculator line completely.

I've also read that the 50G is a quality improvement of the 49 series, but I don't think it meets the quality of the 48 series. Perhaps HP is getting the message.

Thanks again for your solution.

Regards