My PicoCalc is not just a toy, but a powerful aviation tool!
I’ve modified it by adding an RTC (real-time clock) chip so it has an accurate built-in clock. Eventually, I also plan to configure a miniature serial printer and add GPS capability.
I have configured the PicoCalc to boot directly into something I call the Master Flight Tool, written in the MMBasic programming language:
The main program, AV.BAS, is now about 12,000 lines of code. It covers standard aviation calculations as well as a number of more advanced functions that are not normally found on handheld aviation calculators.
Many of the routines are based on calculations and techniques I have found useful during approximately 45 years in aviation. For many of those years my handheld computers were the HP-41C, HP-41CX and, eventually, the HP-41CL.
The accompanying Master Flight Tool Manual is now 165 pages. Getting it comprehensively edited and brought to what I consider production quality has been quite a project.
Although it is primarily an operating manual for using the PicoCalc as the Master Flight Tool, it also works as a standalone, formula-based reference book covering a wide range of aviation mathematics and calculations encountered in everyday flying.
There is also a much smaller QRG — Quick Reference Guide, approximately the same physical size as the PicoCalc. It provides a condensed reference to all of the routines available on the computer.
I’m currently waiting for the ISBN from the Government of Canada before publishing the manual.
The complete package is planned to include:
- PicoCalc
- Installed RTC.
- Upgrade to the Pico 2H (required due to the program size).
- Printed Master Flight Tool Manual.
- Quick Reference Guide.
- Master Flight Tool Windows Companion.
- SD card containing all of the software and supporting files required to operate both the PicoCalc and the Windows Companion application.
I’ve included 43 screenshots as a preview, including the table of contents and examples of some of the routines described in the manual. In the manual screenshots, the green and blue boxes reproduce the appearance of the PicoCalc display.
The intended audience is assumed to have a reasonable knowledge of aviation, but aviation knowledge certainly isn’t required to comment on the project!
Have a look through the photos and let me know what you think. Will list10 pictures a posting due to the restraints in the forum.
