Abstract: A calculator comprises a processor and a keyboard coupled to the processor. The keyboard comprises a calculation key that causes a calculation to be performed on input data. The calculator also comprises a display coupled to the processor. When the calculation key is pressed, the processor determines whether the input data has already been entered. If the input data has not already been input, the processor prompts a user of the calculator to enter the input data via the keyboard by displaying an alphanumeric description of the input data required for the calculation.

Abstract: Electronic scales having an integrated computer including a display for presenting information to a user, an input unit for entering selection data by a user, a memory for storing a plurality of activatable profiles as sets of parameter values for assignment to corresponding sets of parameters, and a data processing unit for controlling the display, the input unit, and the memory, and for determining and processing measured values in accordance with the current activated profile. The measured values are generated during a weighing operation by the user. To determine a profile, a user is requested, over a plurality of successive steps, to select one of several options presented by the display, the combination of the options presented in a step being dependent on the selection made in the preceding step. Then, during the weighing operation, the user is requested, again, over a plurality of successive steps, to perform an action presented by the display.

Abstract: A convenient hand-held calculator includes a program stored in association with a processor for execution on the processor to compute building requirements for wooden structural supports, such as beams, headers, joists, and rafters. The program defines a series of input prompts displayed on a compact display of the calculator that lead a user through a natural sequence for acquiring information needed to perform the computations. The compact display provides the user with a constant reminder of the user-defined and calculator-generated premises upon which the computations will be made and provides a means for displaying the computed result. When the user is prompted for a numerical value input, the display indicates the expected units of the numerical value and a proposed numeric value. The proposed numeric value can then be approved by pressing an enter key of the calculator or changed by entering the desired value using numeric keys of the calculator.