In my years of calculator activities I have run into a couple situations where I could no longer load an OS on to my calc and I have had some other folks ask me what should be done when they were having trouble. While I do not claim to be any expert, I have a few suggestions that will help you get your calculator in operating condition in no time.

• Check your Batteries

I know this sounds basic, and it honestly is. However, it is probably the thing that trips most people up. This is the first thing that I suggest to people that say "... and now my calc will not even turn on!" Even if your calculator does turn on, it might still be a good idea to get fresh batteries, as that could keep it from completing.

• Cable Connection

This comes in two different forms. The basic part of this is: is your cable connected to your computer and calculator? However, there is a more complex worry that I have had with the old long unit-to-unit cables that came with all TI calculators. Some how, the cable inside the insulation is damaged so that it is technically disconnected. If you have had troubles transferring regular things with the current cable that you are using, try someone else's.

• Cable type

In the last point, I suggest using a different cable, but do not take that the wrong way. If you do use a different cable, it must be with in the same family. That is, if you start the transfer with one kind of cable, it must be restarted with that same type of cable. So, if you are at school and you are getting OS 1.17 from your friend and it fails, you have to use their calc to continue the transfer. If you go home and try to continue it from your computer, it will not work.

• Check OS version

If the version you started to install is not the same version that you are continuing with, it will not work.

• Link Port Integrity

This was a real problem for me on more than one occasion. With excessive insertion and removal of the link cable, the port can become disconnected in one, two, or all three places from the board. This is easily realized. Insert your cable into the port, and move it slightly up and down. If you have a lot of play with it then chances are that it is disconnected.

Do not be alarmed, though, there are two fixes. The first does not require opening your calc. It is simple; all you have to do is press up (up being the direction if the calc is facing up) on cable during the transfer. This will establish contact with the board and you will be able to transfer it. However, this is not a permanent fix and if there are contacts still connected it can cause the others to come off.

The permanent fix for this is obviously soldering the port back in. To take your calc apart you will need a TX 6 driver. However, the right sized flat head screwdriver will work perfectly. If you open your calc, you void the warranty

• Use the Warranty

The last recommendation I can give is to use the warranty that came with your calc. If you have the receipt and it has been less than a year since your purchase, send your calc in to the people at TI for a replacement. Warranty Information for products in the US.

I hope that these are helpful. If you have any thing to add to these please e-mail me Austin Hibdon (SoberTillNoon) and let me know.