As a kid, you probably remember
sitting in math class and playing with your calculator by covering up the small
panels and watching the numbers disappear, then watching them re-appear when
you uncovered them, right? Well, you may not have known it at the time, but you
were playing with tiny solar panels on a solar-powered calculator.
In fact, most simple calculators
that people are used to using have solar panels on them. Even calculators that
actually have batteries that power the calculator itself use solar panels help
to preserve the batteries, recharging them as you use them.
Fun fact: Calculators were developed
by manufacturers this way so people could get the longest life out of their
calculators with the original battery still intact as possible. The method
greatly reduced the need to buy a calculator due to a dead battery. This way,
you’d only need to get a new one if you dropped or somehow broke your current
calculator. Smart, huh?
Unlike other solar-powered devices, semi-solar
powered calculators don’t need to be in direct sunlight to work. They do,
however, need to be in sunlight to help re-charge the battery.
If you’re wondering if you have a
true solar calculator or one that runs off batteries, channel your inner-third
grader and cover up the solar panels, most likely located somewhere towards the
top of your device. If you have a true solar calculator, the numbers will fade
and there will be a time lag between pressing the button and seeing the number
appear on the screen.
If you have a true solar-powered
calculator, your calculator will work best in a sunny area, but not in direct
sunlight. If you expose the calculator to direct sunlight for too long, it
could harm the small and delicate receivers inside the panels. Remember, these
aren’t sitting on the top of your house, but in the middle of your hand.
For both partial and true-solar powered
calculators, use a clean microfiber cloth to dust off the panels occasionally to
keep them clean and working at their best. Dust, dirt, and oils from your hands
can build up on the tiny panels over time, greatly reducing the solar effect of
your calculator. When you aren’t using it or leaving it out to charge in
sunlight, keep it in a cool, dry place, like a desk drawer.
If you don’t maintain your solar
calculators correctly, you may need to replace them prematurely, and over the
years, the cost can add up. The last thing you want to notice before a big math
exam is that your calculator isn’t working, so prevent it by caring for your calculator.
Your math homework and wallet will
thank you!