Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE User manual

Getting Started with the
TI-84 Plus CE
Graphing Calculator
This guidebook applies to software version 5.3. To obtain the latest version of the
documentation, go to education.ti.com/go/download.

Important Information
Except as otherwise expressly stated in the Licence that accompanies a program, Texas
Instruments makes no warranty, either express or implied, including but not limited to
any implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose,
regarding any programs or book materials and makes such materials available solely
on an "as-is" basis. In no event shall Texas Instruments be liable to anyone for special,
collateral, incidental or consequential damages in connection with or arising out of the
purchase or use of these materials, and the sole and exclusive liability of Texas
Instruments, regardless of the form of action, shall not exceed the amount set forth in
the licence for the program. Moreover, Texas Instruments shall not be liable for any
claim of any kind whatsoever against the use of these materials by any other party.
EasyData is a trademark of Vernier Software and Technology.
© 2017 Texas Instruments Incorporated
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Contents
Important Information ii
Using Your TI-84 Plus CE Graphing Calculator 1
Key Features 1
Using the Keyboard 2
Turning the TI-84 Plus CE On and Off 2
Using the TI-84 Plus CE Keyboard 3
Setting the Display Brightness 6
Using the Home Screen 7
Working with Menus 14
Setting Up the Calculator Modes 20
Setting Modes 20
Changing Mode Settings 20
MATHPRINT™ CLASSIC 21
NORMAL SCI ENG 22
FLOAT 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 22
RADIAN DEGREE 23
FUNCTION PARAMETRIC POLAR SEQ 23
THICK DOT-THICK THIN DOT-THIN 23
SEQUENTIAL SIMUL 24
REAL a+bi re^(theta i) 24
FULL HORIZONTAL GRAPH-TABLE 24
FRACTION TYPE: n/d Un/d 25
ANSWERS: AUTO DEC 25
STAT DIAGNOSTICS: OFF ON 25
STAT WIZARDS: ON OFF 26
SET CLOCK 26
LANGUAGE 26
Evaluating Expressions 28
Order of Operations 28
Entering Expressions and Instructions 30
Working with Graphs 34
Using Colour on the TI-84 Plus CE 34
Using QuickPlot and Fit Equation 35
Working With Images 36
Using Piecewise Function Graphing 36
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iv
Working with Tables 39
Working with Matrices 40
Using the Matrix Editor 40
Performing a Calculation with a Matrix 40
Working with Probability and Statistics 42
Working with Probability 42
Working with Statistics 43
Working with Variables 47
Using Variable Names 47
Storing Variable Values 49
Recalling Variable Values 50
Solving Equations 51
Numeric Solver 51
Managing Calculator Files 53
Transferring the OS from calculator to calculator 53
Compatibility with Graphing Calculators 53
Using Press-to-Test 55
Setting Up Test Mode 55
Bringing a Calculator Out of Test Mode 57
Using Applications (Apps) 58
Cabri™ Jr. App 58
CellSheet™ App 58
Conic Graphing App 58
Inequality Graphing App 59
Periodic Table App 59
Polynomial Root Finder and Simultaneous Equation Editor App 59
Probability Simulation App 59
Science Tools App 60
SmartPad™ CE App 60
TI-Innovator™ Hub App 61
Transformation Graphing App 61
Vernier EasyData™ App 61
Using Accessories 62
Using TI Desktop Software 62

Using the TI Charging Station CE 62
Using, Replacing, and Charging Batteries 64
Diagnosing and Correcting Error Conditions 68
Diagnosing an Error 68
Correcting an Error 68
General Information 69
Texas Instruments Support and Service 69
Service and Warranty Information 69
Precautions for Rechargeable Batteries 69
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Using Your TI-84 Plus CE Graphing Calculator
The TI-84 Plus CE graphing calculator comes with a USB cable, plenty of storage and
operating memory. It also comes pre-loaded with software applications (Apps) to help
you perform pre-algebra, algebra, calculus, biology, chemistry, and physics
calculations.
Key Features
•High resolution, full-colour backlit display
- Distinguish between multiple graphs and plots with colour-coded equations,
plots and objects
- Make graphs easier to read by adding grid lines
•TI Rechargeable Battery
- Recharges using a USB cable, wall charger or TI Charging Station CE
•Familiar TI-84 Plus functionality
- Similar menu structure and navigation as the TI-84 Plus family with enhanced
features
- Built-in MathPrint™ functionality to input and view maths symbols, formulas
and stacked fractions
•Import and use images
- Use TI Connect™ CE Software to send images (.gif, .jpg, .png, .tif, .bmp) from a
computer to a calculator
- Graph on top of images to connect concepts to the real world
The applications extend the functionality of your calculator, allowing you to perform
specific maths and science functions and to deepen your understanding of concepts.
Pre-loaded applications include:
• Cabri™ Jr • Probability Simulations
• CellSheet™ • Science Tools
• Conic Graphing • TI-Innovator™ Hub
• Inequality Graphing • Transformation Graphing
• Periodic Table • Vernier EasyData®
• Polynomial Root Finder and
Simultaneous Equation Solver
Use this guide to learn more about these features and other essential tools of your
TI-84 Plus CE graphing calculator.
Using Your TI-84 Plus CE Graphing Calculator 1

2 Using the Keyboard
Using the Keyboard
This section covers basic graphing calculator settings and explains how to navigate the
home screen and menus.
Turning the TI-84 Plus CE On and Off
This section covers basic on and off features for your graphing calculator.
Turning the Graphing Calculator On
Press É.
An information screen displays:
• Press Àto continue to the home screen but not see this information screen the
next time you press É.
-or-
• Press Áto continue to the home screen.
Note: Any entry from this information screen will take you to the home screen (a
blank screen).
The information screen shows the following for information purposes only. You must
go to the home screen before you can complete the following.
• Press ƒ ^ -ato locate shortcut menus.
• Press Ãon most menu items for Catalog Help.
Note: This message also displays when you reset RAM.
You may see a context-sensitive shortcut menu located at ƒ b for interactive
features or actions such as interactive drawing features from the graph screen or
TI-Basic program editing.

Turning the Graphing Calculator Off
Press y M.
• The Constant Memory™ function retains settings and memory, and clears any error
condition.
• If you turn off the TI-84 Plus CE and connect it to another graphing calculator or
personal computer, any communication will “wake" it up.
Automatic Power Down™ (APD™)
• To prolong battery-life, APD™ automatically turns the TI-84 Plus CE off after about
three to four minutes of inactivity.
• If APD™ turns the graphing calculator off, it will return as you left it, including the
display, cursor, and any error.
Using the TI-84 Plus CE Keyboard
This section describes the functions of specific keys on the graphing calculator
keyboard.
TI-84 Plus CE Keyboard
Graph/Plot Setup Keys allow access to
interactive graphing features. When some
graph screen features are active, you may
see a shortcut menu in the ƒ b
location for feature options.
Editing Keys allow you to edit expressions
and values.
Math and Statistics Keys display menus
that access math, statistics, and other
basic functions.
Scientific Keys allow access to the capabilities of a standard scientific
calculator—including trigonometric functions.
Number Keys allow you to enter numbers.
Common Math Functions allow you to divide, multiply, subtract, and add.
Using the Keyboard 3

4 Using the Keyboard
Function Keys
yAccess the second function
printed to the left above
each key.
ƒAccess the third function
printed to the right above
each key.
ƒ
^-a
Access shortcut menus for
fraction templates, n/d,
quick matrix entry, select
MATH menus and VARS
menu functions.
ƒ b Context-sensitive shortcut
menu for interactive
features or actions such as
interactive drawing features
from the graph screen or TI-
Basic program editing.

Using the Function Keys
Primary
Function
The function appears on the key. Ex: to display the MATH menu, press
».
Secondary
Function
The function appears above the key in the same color as the ykey.
When you press the ykey, the key name printed above the other key
becomes active for the next keystroke.
Ex: to display the TEST menu, press yand then :.
The flashing cursor becomes Þwhen you press y.Þmay also appear
in the status bar.
Tertiary
(Alpha
Key)
Function
The function appears above the key in the same color as the ƒkey.
The third function allows you to enter alphabetic characters and special
symbols, and to access SOLVE and shortcut menus.
Ex: to display the letter A, press ƒand then [A].
• To enter several alphabetic characters in a row, press y 7. This
locks the alpha key in the ON position so that you avoid having to
repeatedly press ƒ. Press ƒagain to unlock.
• The flashing cursor becomes Øwhen you press ƒ.Ømay also
appear in the status bar.
Using the Keyboard 5

6 Using the Keyboard
Setting the Display Brightness
This section covers how to set the display brightness and explains automatic dimming.
Adjusting the Display Brightness
You can adjust the display brightness to suit your viewing angle and lighting conditions.
To adjust the brightness, follow these steps.
▶Press y † to darken the screen one level at a time.
▶Press y } to lighten the screen one level at a time.
The TI-84 Plus CE retains the brightness setting in memory when it is turned off.
Automatic Dimming
The TI-84 Plus CE automatically dims the screen brightness after 90 seconds of
inactivity.
▶Press Éto return the screen to the preset brightness.
▶Pressing Éto adjust the brightness will not affect any of the current state of your
calculator work.

Using the Home Screen
Expressions
Answers
Use the home screen to enter instructions and evaluate expressions. Answers appear
on the same screen. Most calculations are stored in home screen history. Press }and
†to scroll through the entry history and paste the entries or answers to the current
entry line.
1. Enter a calculation.
2. Press y 5 from any screen until you get back to
the home screen.
3. Press y C 3¡ Ã 4¡ ~ Ã 6Í.
Note: When you are in a MathPrint™ template, the cursor
turns into a right arrow to indicate that you must press
~to get out of the template before you continue entering
the calculation.
Displaying Entries and Answers
Mode settings control how the TI-84 Plus CE interprets expressions and displays
answers. Press zto switch between classic entries and MathPrint™ mode. This
guide focuses on MathPrint™ Mode, but may reference some classic entries.
MathPrint™ Mode
• If an expression exceeds one line, it may scroll off the screen (on the home screen
or the Y=screen). Press ~to see the entire expression.
Tip: Press the cursor without pressing yto move the cursor along the line.
• An arrow appears to the left of an answer if it scrolls off the screen. Press ~and
|before you enter another expression to display the entire answer.
Using the Keyboard 7

8 Using the Keyboard
Classic Entries MathPrint™
sqrt (5)
Some input areas in MathPrint™ mode only support classic entries.
Ex: y -
MathPrint™ (default)
Entry
Answer (Scrolls)
Entry
Answer

Scrolling Through the Home Screen History
If all lines of the display are full, text scrolls off the top of the display.
You can scroll up through previous entries and answers on the home screen, even if you
have cleared the screen. When you find an entry or answer that you want to use, you
can select it and paste it (press Í) on the current entry line.
Note: List and matrix answers cannot be copied and pasted to the new entry line.
However, you can copy the list or matrix command to the new entry line and execute
the command again to display the answer.
▶Press }or †to move the cursor to the entry or answer you want to copy and then
press Í.
The TI-84 Plus CE highlights the entry the cursor is on to help you select your
desired choice.
The entry or answer that you copied is automatically pasted on the current input
line at the cursor location.
Note: If the cursor is in a MathPrint™ expression, such as the denominator of a
fraction, press ƒ } to move the cursor out of the expression and then move
the cursor to the entry or answer you want to copy to that location in the
MathPrint™ template.
▶Press ‘or {to delete an entry/answer pair. After an entry/answer pair has
been deleted, it cannot be displayed or recalled again.
Returning to the Home Screen
To return to the home screen from any other screen, press y 5 until you get back
to home screen.
Status Bar
The status bar displays on all screens and gives information about the selected
calculator mode settings, any context help available for the item you currently have
selected and battery status.
The status bar may also show a busy indicator if the calculator is performing an
operation, Øto indicate the calculator is in alpha status and Þto indicate the
secondary function is active.
Selected mode settings are displayed on the top line of the status bar when the cursor
is in the active entry area. Mode settings do not display when the cursor is in the home
screen history, since the mode may have been different for previous calculations.
Using the Keyboard 9

10 Using the Keyboard
Tip:
Context help, if available, is displayed on the second line. The battery status icon, busy
indicator, alpha indicator and second key indicator are on the right. When you scroll
into the home screen history, the context help on the status bar displays HISTORY.
In the example below, the cursor is on the GridColour option. The context help for
how to change the GridColour using the spinner menu is displayed on the second line
of the status bar.
Selected MODE settings.
Context help for current cursor position or active feature.
Battery icon.
This area of the status bar also displays the busy indicator,
alpha indicator and second key indicator, depending on the state of the graphing
calculator.

Using Shortcut Menus
ƒ ^
Opens FRAC menu.
ƒ _
Opens FUNC menu.
ƒ `
Opens MTRX menu.
ƒ a
Opens YVAR menu.
ƒ b
Opens special menus.
Shortcut menus allow quick access to the following:
^Templates to enter fractions and to toggle between whole and mixed
fractions, and fractions and decimals.
_Selected functions from the MATH MATH and MATH NUM menus as you
would see them in a textbook, when in MathPrint™ mode. Functions include
absolute value, numeric differentiation, numeric integration, summation, log
base n, square root, permutations, combinations and factorials.
`Quick MathPrint™ matrix entry, when available.
aNames of function variables from the VARS Y-VARS menu.
To open a shortcut menu, press ƒplus the corresponding F-key: ^for FRAC, _
for FUNC, `for MTRX, afor YVAR or bfor special menus within interactive graph
activities, such as when using DRAW or Quick Plot and Fit Equation, and for TI-Basic
program editing.
To select a menu item:
-either-
▶Press the number corresponding to the item.
-or-
▶Use the arrow keys to move the cursor to the appropriate line and then press Í.
Using the Keyboard 11

12 Using the Keyboard
You can select all shortcut menu items except matrix templates using standard menus.
For example, you can choose the summation template from several places:
FUNC shortcut menu
ƒ _
y N
The shortcut menus are available to use where input is allowed. If the calculator is in
Classic mode or if a screen is displayed that does not support MathPrint™ display,
entries will be displayed in Classic mode. The MTRX menu is only available in
MathPrint™ mode on the home screen and in the Y=editor.
Note: Shortcut menus may not be available if ƒplus f-key combinations are used
while an application is running.

Display Cursors
The cursor may change to indicate what will happen when you press the next key or
when you select the next menu item to be pasted as a character.
Note: The second cursor Þand alpha cursor Ømay appear on the status bar,
depending on the context.
Cursor Appearance Effect of Next Keystroke
Entry Solid
rectangle
$
This is the default cursor. Enter characters at this
cursor; this overrides any existing character.
Insert Underline
__
Press y 6 for this cursor. Enter characters in
front of the cursor location.
Second Reverse
arrow
Þ
This allows you to enter a 2nd character or
complete a 2nd operation.
Alpha Reverse A
Ø
An alpha character is entered, SOLVE is executed or
shortcut menus are displayed.
Full Chequerboard
rectangle
No entry; the maximum characters are entered at
a prompt or memory is full. Also indicates the limit
of the allowed MathPrint™ mode levels.
MathPrint™ Right arrow The cursor moves to either the next part of the
template or out of the template. Press the right
arrow to move out of all MathPrint™ templates
before entering the remaining terms in an
expression.
If you press ƒduring an insertion, the cursor becomes an underlined A (A). If you
press yduring an insertion, the underlined cursors becomes an underlined #(#).
Note: If you highlight a small character such as a colon or a comma and then press
ƒor y, the cursor does not change because the cursor width is too narrow.
Using the Keyboard 13

14 Using the Keyboard
Working with Menus
You can access TI-84 Plus CE commands using menus.
Displaying a Menu
• When you press a key to display a menu, that menu temporarily replaces the
screen where you are working.
•Ex: press »to display the MATH menu.
• After you select an item from a menu, the screen where you are working usually
displays again.
Note: If a context help message is in the status bar when you press a menu that
temporarily replaces the screen, that context help will remain in the status bar as a
reminder that you are working within a context.
Moving from One Menu to Another
Some keys access more than one menu. When you press
such a key, the names of all accessible menus are
displayed on the top line. When you highlight a menu
name, the items in that menu are displayed. Press ~and
|to highlight each menu name.
Note: FRAC shortcut menu items are found in the FRAC
menu, and are also found on the MATH NUM menu. FUNC
shortcut menu items are also found on the MATH MATH
menu.
Scrolling a Menu
To scroll down the menu items, press †. To scroll up the menu items, press }.
To page down 9 menu items at a time, press ƒ †. To page up 9 menu items at a
time, press ƒ }.
To go to the last menu item directly from the first menu item, press }. To go to the
first menu item directly from the last menu item, press †.

Selecting an Item from a Menu
You can select an item from a menu in three ways.
▶Press the number or letter of the item you want to
select. The cursor can be anywhere on the menu, and
the item you select does not need to be displayed on
the screen.
-or-
▶Press †or }to move the cursor to the item you want, and then press Í.
-or-
▶Within the Catalog listing of functionality, move the
cursor to the item you want, and then press Ã. For
most commands, the Catalog Help syntax editor
displays the correct syntax. Enter the syntax using the
displayed help, and then press ƒ a to paste. The
Catalog Help pastes the complete command.
Press ƒ b to escape without pasting the
command.
Using the Keyboard 15