Texas Instruments TI-Nspire CAS User manual

Getting Started with the
TI-Nspire™ Handheld
This guidebook applies to TI-Nspire™ software version 2.0. To obtain the
latest version of the documentation, go to education.ti.com/guides.

ii
Important Information
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action, shall not exceed the amount set forth in the license for the
program. Moreover, Texas Instruments shall not be liable for any claim of
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party.
FCC Statement
Note: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the
limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against
harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment
generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not
installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no
guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.
If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television
reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and
on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from
that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
© 2006-2009 Texas Instruments Incorporated

Contents
iii
Important Information................................................................... ii
Introduction ............................................................................1
The TI-Nspire™ math and science learning handheld ................. 1
How to use this guidebook............................................................ 1
Getting started with the TI-Nspire™ handheld.....................3
Using the documentation .............................................................. 3
TI-Nspire™ handheld keys ............................................................. 5
Keyboard shortcuts ........................................................................ 6
Starting up your handheld ............................................................ 9
Turning on your TI-Nspire™ handheld for the first time........... 12
Using the TI-Nspire™ Touchpad .................................................. 13
Using Hints.................................................................................... 14
Exploring your TI-Nspire™ handheld.......................................... 14
Understanding the Scratchpad.................................................... 18
The TI-Nspire™ handheld screen................................................. 18
Defining settings and viewing status.......................................... 19
Understanding the TI-Nspire™ tools........................................... 26
Sharing files with a computer or another device....................... 30
Updating your handheld operating system................................ 32
Backing up files to a computer.................................................... 33
Opening the Getting Started document..................................... 35
Tips for navigating ....................................................................... 36
Walking through the document.................................................. 36
Getting more information ........................................................... 46
Working with documents on the TI-Nspire™ handheld .....49
Creating a new document ........................................................... 49
Saving a document....................................................................... 49
Working with applications........................................................... 50
Using the Application menu........................................................ 55
Context menu ............................................................................... 56
Working with problems and pages ............................................. 57
Adding a problem to a document............................................... 57
Copying, pasting, and deleting problems................................... 57
Renaming a problem.................................................................... 58
Adding a page to a problem ....................................................... 59
Moving through pages in a document ....................................... 59
Viewing and reordering pages in a document........................... 60
Viewing multiple pages with the Page Sorter............................ 63
Managing documents .................................................................. 63

iv
Closing a document ......................................................................67
Sending a document or folder to another handheld.................67
Understanding the scratchpad.....................................................69
Libraries.........................................................................................69
Program Editor..............................................................................69
Appendix: Service and Support ........................................... 71
Texas Instruments Support and Service ....................................... 71
Battery Precautions.......................................................................71
Index ..................................................................................... 73

Introduction 1
Introduction
The TI-Nspire™ math and science learning
handheld
This guidebook provides information about a powerful, advanced
learning handheld available from Texas Instruments: the TI-Nspire™
handheld.
Your learning handheld comes equipped with a variety of pre-installed
software applications that have features relevant to different subjects
and curriculums.
Extend the reach of your TI-Nspire™ handheld with accessories, such as
the TI-Nspire™ computer software, TI-Nspire™ ViewScreen™ Panel and
TI-Nspire™ Computer Link Software.
How to use this guidebook
This guidebook is intended to provide instruction for the basic operation
of the TI-Nspire™ handheld.
The chapters in this guidebook include:
Getting started in the TI-Nspire™ handheld - Provides start up
information for the learning handheld, and offers students and
educators an overview of the basic operations of the TI-Nspire™
handheld.
Working with Documents - Provides instruction for creating and
working with documents.
Service and Warranty Information - Includes service and warranty
information and contact information for technical support.
Where to find more information
The remainder of the product information is available in electronic form.
The comprehensive guidebook for using the TI-Nspire™ handheld is
included on the CD-ROM that came with your learning handheld. This
guidebook is also available online as a free download at
education.ti.com/guides.

2 Introduction

Getting started with the TI-Nspire™ handheld 3
Getting started with the TI-Nspire™
handheld
Using the documentation
This documentation covers both the TI-Nspire™ handheld and the
TI-Nspire™ CAS handheld. While they operate identically in many ways,
there are a few distinctions.
Where the operation of the TI-Nspire™ CAS handheld is different, you
will see this pointed out, with the CAS operation described.
About the TI-84 Mode
The TI-Nspire™ CAS handheld does not operate in TI-84 mode. If your
handheld is the CAS version, please disregard all references to operation
in the TI-84 mode.
Changing the keypad
Caution: When changing keypads, be certain that the handheld is
completely powered down before removing the keypad. Removing the
keypad before the display clears may result in loss of data.
Understanding dual-mode operation
Your TI-Nspire™ handheld works with two keypads:
• The TI-Nspire™ keypad
• The TI-84 Plus keypad
TI-84 Plus
keypad (on left) and TI-Nspire™keypad
(on the handheld)

4 Getting started with the TI-Nspire™ handheld
Changing the keypad
Caution: When changing keypads, be certain that the handheld is
completely powered down before removing the keypad. Removing the
keypad before the display clears may result in loss of data.
1. Remove the cover and turn the
handheld over. Slide the latch
release to the right.
The keypad releases.
2. Turn the handheld right side up,
and slide the keypad away from
the display screen.
3. Lift the keypad off the
handheld.
4. Insert the other keypad.
Ensure that it fits comfortably
into the guides on the bottom
and sides of the handheld.
Note: The keypad does not slide in
from the bottom edge of the unit.
Instead, fit it into the guides just
above the batteries.
5. When the keypad is properly
seated on the handheld, push
the keypad toward the display
screen.
The keypad clicks into place
when properly seated and
completely inserted into the
handheld.

Getting started with the TI-Nspire™ handheld 5
TI-Nspire™ handheld keys
doc
TI-Nspire Touchpad
TI-Nspire™ Touchpad
Use the center area as
you would a laptop
touchpad. Use the
outer edges as right,
left, up, and down
arrows.
eMoves to the
next entry field.
/Provides access to
the function or
character shown
above each key. Also
enables shortcuts in
combination with
other keys.
cTurns on the
handheld. If the
handheld is on, this
key displays the home
menu.
~Opens the
Tools menu.
·Evaluates an
expression,
executes an
instruction, or
selects a menu
item.
gMakes the
next character typed
upper-case.
.Deletes the
previous character.
»Opens the
Scratchpad for
performing quick
calculations and
graphing.
dRemoves menus
or dialog boxes from
the screen. Also stops
a calculation in
progress.
hDisplays
stored variables.
bDisplays the
application or
context menu.
Use these multi-
purpose keys either
alone or in
combination with
other keys, such as
Ctrl.

6 Getting started with the TI-Nspire™ handheld
Keyboard shortcuts
Use the following keyboard shortcuts to perform common functions.
Getting Help
Opening Hints / μor / º
Editing Text
Cut /X
Copy /C
Paste /V
Undo /Z
/d
Redo /Y
gd
Toggle approximate and exact results /·
Change key to include appropriate accent ;
Inserting Characters, Symbols
Display character/symbol palette /k
Underscore /_
Display math template palette t
Backslash ( \ ) gp
Manual data capture point /^
Clear /.
Caps Lock /g
Store /h
Square brackets /(
Curly brackets /)
Display Trig symbol palette μ

Getting started with the TI-Nspire™ handheld 7
Equals symbol =
Display pi symbols palette
(p, ˆ, q, and so on),
¹
Display equality/inequality palette
(>, <, ƒ, ‚, )
/=
Display marks and letter symbols palette
(? ! $ ¡ ' " : ; _ \)
º
Square root /q
log /s
ln /u
ans /v
Managing Documents
Open document /O
Close document /W
Create new document /N
Insert new page /I
Select application /K
Save current document /S
Navigation
Top of page /7
End of page /1
Page Up /9
Page Down /3
Up a level in the hierarchy /£
Down a level in the hierarchy /6
Document menu ~

8 Getting started with the TI-Nspire™ handheld
Context menu for selection b
Switch between applications on a split page /e
Navigating in Documents
Displays previous page /¡
Displays next page /¢
Displays Page Sorter /£
Exits Page Sorter /6
Extends selection in direction of arrow gAny arrow
Moves focus backward within page ge
Wizards and Templates
Add a column to a matrix after the current column g@
Add a row to a matrix after the current row @
Integration template g+
Derivative template g-
Math template palette tor /;
Fraction template /p
Modifying Display
Increase contrast /+
Decrease contrast /-
Power off /c
Using Application-Specific Shortcuts
Select all in Notes or Program Editor /A
Check syntax and store (in Program Editor) /B
Insert Data Collection console /D
Find (in Program Editor) /F

Getting started with the TI-Nspire™ handheld 9
Starting up your handheld
Installing batteries
1. Remove the keypad from the front of the handheld.
2. Insert the four alkaline AAA batteries provided with your handheld
into the battery compartment. Arrange the batteries according to
the polarity (+ and -) diagram in the battery compartment.
Replacing batteries
Caution: When removing the keypad to change batteries, be certain
that the handheld is completely powered down. Removing the keypad
before the display is cleared may result in loss of data.
Hide/Show Entry Line (in Graph or Geometry)
Go To (in Lists & Spreadsheet, Program Editor)
/G
Find and Replace (In Program Editor) /H
Insert math expression box (in Notes) /M
Open the Scratchpad »
Recalculate (in Lists & Spreadsheet) /R
Add Function Table (in Lists & Spreadsheet, Graph, and
Geometry) /T
Group/ungroup /4/
/6
1. Save any open documents and turn off the handheld.
2. Remove the keypad from the handheld.

10 Getting started with the TI-Nspire™ handheld
AAA Battery Precautions
Take these precautions when replacing batteries.
• Do not leave batteries within the reach of children.
• Do not mix new and used batteries. Do not mix brands, or types
within brands, of batteries.
• Do not under any circumstances use rechargeable AAA batteries.
• Install batteries according to polarity (+ and -) diagrams.
• Properly dispose of used batteries immediately.
• Do not incinerate or dismantle batteries.
• Seek medical advice immediately if a cell or battery has been
swallowed.
About rechargeable batteries
• Do not under any circumstances use rechargeable AAA batteries in
your handheld. Use only AAA alkaline batteries.
Disposing of used batteries safely and properly
• Do not mutilate, puncture, or dispose of batteries in fire. The
batteries can burst or explode, releasing hazardous chemicals.
Discard used batteries according to local regulations.
3. Carefully remove the batteries.
Caution: You may need to use a
tool to remove the batteries as
they fit tightly in the unit. If you
use a tool, be careful not to
damage either the batteries or
the handheld.
4. Insert fresh batteries.
Ensure that the + side of each
battery faces away from the
display screen.
5. Replace the keypad.

Getting started with the TI-Nspire™ handheld 11
Turning the handheld on and off
To turn on the handheld, press c.
To turn off the handheld, press /c. The next time you turn on the
handheld, it is in the same state as when you left it. The settings and
memory contents are retained.
Using Automatic Power Down™ to prolong battery life
To prolong battery life, Automatic Power Down™ (APD™) turns off the
handheld after several minutes of inactivity. The next time you turn on
the handheld, it is exactly as you left it.
Understanding power standby and hibernate options
You can change your power standby and hibernate options to extend
your battery life.
Note: If you are operating in TI-84 mode, you cannot modify the power
standby or hibernate options. TI-84 mode will follow the same power
settings established within the TI-Nspire™ native mode.
By default, the system automatically powers down after three minutes.
Other power standby options available are:
• 1 minute
• 5 minutes
• 10 minutes
• 30 minutes
When you hibernate, the system saves your current work in memory.
When you turn the handheld on again, the system will reboot and open
your saved work.
By default, your system will hibernate after two days. You can also
change the settings to the following:
•1day
•3days
•4days
•5days
• Never
To change the power standby or hibernate setting, see Defining settings
and viewing status.

12 Getting started with the TI-Nspire™ handheld
Turning on your TI-Nspire™ handheld for the first
time
fAfter installing the batteries, press cto turn on the handheld.
A progress bar displays while the operating system loads.
Adjusting the contrast
To lighten the display, press and hold /and tap -.
To darken the display, press /and tap +.
Choosing a language
After loading, the handheld prompts you to select a display
language.
1. Press 6until the desired language is highlighted, and then press
xor ·to select it.
2. Press eto highlight the OK button, and press xor ·to select
it.
Choosing a font size
The handheld prompts you to select a display font size.
1. Press 6until the font size you wish to display is highlighted, and
then press xor ·to select it.
2. Press eto highlight the OK button, and press xor ·to
select it.
Note: To reset the font size on your handheld, see Defining settings
and viewing status.

Getting started with the TI-Nspire™ handheld 13
When you have selected the font size, the Welcome screen displays.
This screen describes a few of the basics of using your new handheld.
Press 6on the TI-Nspire™ Touchpad to scroll down through the
document.
Once you have finished with the welcome screen, press eto
highlight the OK button, then click xor press ·to display the
home menu.
Using the TI-Nspire™ Touchpad
Use your touchpad to navigate in two ways:
• Use it like a computer touchpad; that is, move your fingertip in a
sliding motion on the center area of the touchpad, then click or tap
in the center to execute. In the documentation, when you’re
instructed to point to an item, this means to use your touchpad to
move the mouse pointer.
• Use the arrow keys on its outside edge to nudge the mouse pointer
up, down, left, or right, then click the xbutton, tap, or press ·
to execute.
If you hold down an arrow key, the mouse pointer continues to move
in that direction.
Note: If your mouse pointer is visible on a command or file and you click
or tap the click xarea in the center of the touchpad, the handheld
selects that command or file. If the command or file that you want is
highlighted, move your pointer over that item or press ·to select it.
In the applications, your touchpad will help you get more information
about your problems. For example, hovering over a Graphs & Geometry
object tells you about variables used in the object and tools that are
available.

14 Getting started with the TI-Nspire™ handheld
Getting the most out of your touchpad
• To select an item, tap the center area lightly with your finger or press
to click.
• To grab an item, double-tap, /x,or hold down the center area.
Some users prefer to customize their touchpad settings; to speed up or
slow down their pointer, or to enable the tap. To change your pointer
speed or disable the touchpad’s ability to tap to click, see Defining
settings and viewing status.
You can use the touchpad to navigate or execute virtually any task for
which you use the arrow and Enter keys.
Using Hints
Hints are quick tips available throughout the software in the handheld.
There are several easy ways to access Hints:
• Press / μor / º.
• Some dialog boxes in your handheld contain a question mark icon.
Click this icon to open Hints for that task.
fTo scroll through the Hints, use the touchpad or arrow keys:
– To page down, press / 3.
– To page up, press / 9.
– To go to the end of the Hints file, press / 1.
– To go back to the beginning of the file, press / 7.
Exploring your TI-Nspire™ handheld
The Home menu provides a starting point for all activities on your
handheld. Use the Home menu to perform the following tasks:
• Creating new documents
• Opening and managing existing documents
• Opening the scratchpad for quick calculations and graphing
• Defining settings and viewing status
• Viewing hints for operating the handheld
• See a list of recent documents
• Go back to the current document

Getting started with the TI-Nspire™ handheld 15
Using the Home menu
The Home menu displays when you power on your handheld for the first
time.
Note: To return to the Home menu from any other location, press c.
fUse the touchpad to click on any of the application icons or any of
the Scratchpad or Documents menu options.
• Press the arrows on the touchpad (3, 4, 5,or6) to move among the
options on the Home menu.
A brief description of each option displays as you hover the mouse
pointer over it.
• Press xor ·to select a highlighted option, or press the number
associated with the option. You can also tap or click in the center of
the touchpad.
Home menu options
Menu
Option
Purpose Keyboard Shortcut
Scratchpad Use the scratchpad menu
options to open a
Calculator or Graph
application without
affecting your document.
» While in
Scratchpad, press this
to toggle between
Scratchpad
applications.

16 Getting started with the TI-Nspire™ handheld
Calculator - Opens a
document in the
scratchpad with a
Calculator application
active.
»A
Note: If you are at the
Home screen, just
type A.
Graph - Opens a
document in the
scratchpad with a Graph
application active.
»B
Note: If you are at the
Home screen, just
type B.
Documents Commands include New
Doc, My Docs, Recent,
Current, and Settings &
Status.
Note: If you are already at
the Home screen, there is
no need to click cfor
any of the Documents
menu items; just click on
or press the relevant
number.
New Doc - Opens a new
document with a
selection of applications.
~1
My Docs - Open the file
browser. ~2
Recent - View a list of the
five most recent
documents.
~3
Current - Click here to go
to the document that is
currently open.
~4
Settings and Status -
Change your settings and
check your status.
~5
Menu
Option
Purpose Keyboard Shortcut