PC2, in this distribution consists of four files. This readme file, the PC2 suitcase file, a PC2 Help file, and a PC2 Programs file. The PC2 Help and PC2 Programs file are contain in a folder named "PC2 Folder"
Install the Pica Calculator2 as you would any other DA per the system (6 or 7) you are running. Under system 7.1 double click the da suitcase and drag the Pica Calculator 2 onto your system folder. Or under either, use Suitcase II or MasterJuggler. Place the PC2 Folder into the system folder leaving the help and programs files inside of it - this is the only way the PC2 will find these files. If you don't need either, the files are not required.
Open the Pica Calculator2 the first time...
In its default state the PC2 window is small and the calculator performs like any other algebraic entry calculator with the exception of the special conversions functions.
On the right side adjacent to the display area is a popup menu. It provides control over the displayed results format and access to other important PC2 features. At this point "Help" and "Preferences" will be of particular interest. Preferences provides a set of options for the input and output of various numeric formats. Two buttons of the PC2 may be configured to one of 7 options each. The popup menu may be configured for “Linear” (normal) or “Programmer's” conversion selections.
Note that any numeric format may be entered at any time through the keyboard regardless of the button and menu configurations. Simply type them in the appropriate format.
The “Help” selection in the popup menu provides basic information on a number of topics on using the PC2. Help topics are fully editable and may be expanded or new ones created to fit your own needs. Complete descriptions of all PC2 functions are contained in stand-alone documents distributed simultaneously, but separately.
To use PC2's programmable features, select "Programs" from the popup menu adjacent to the display area. The PC2 window will expand and it position will be adjusted to fit entirely on the screen. This reveals a list area to display available programs or program statements. Above the list is a status message indicating the current "Mode" of the list. Below the list are the four main program control buttons. Below the main body of the PC2 are addition function buttons specific to programming the PC2.
When Programs mode is first opened, the list of programs will display "< None Available >" even though the Programs file is in the PC2 Folder (in the system folder). Click the File button and a list of PC2 files available in the PC2 Folder will be displayed. Select one and the list will display the programs contained in it. Note: programs are never actually loaded until they are required, therefore you should not move or delete the active Programs file while the PC2 is open and in Programs mode.
When you select a program in the list two of the program control buttons change to Run and Info. Holding down the option key will temporarily change them back to File and Rcrd, additionally, the Edit and Del buttons become Renm and Copy.
When Editing a PC2 program, the control buttons change to facilitate editing functions. When a program statement is selected, the buttons change again. Holding down the option key will temporarily change them back in addition to providing access to the "Step" function.
