WP43 Pilot Run (Poll!)

[Walter]

Thanks to everybody for your confidence. Please be aware of the OP: much of viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2374 applies still. Well, we're 7 month further now, software has advanced to some 60% (so we're still open for capable software people with sufficient spare time to dedicate to this project - please speak up!).

There will be most probably no WP43S to distribute in November due to reasons mentioned in viewtopic.php?f=2&t=2374&start=200#p16643. Benefit: we can use the improved keyboard electromechanics.

[NYC41]

I will commit to purchasing a first-run (beta or otherwise) of the WP43S, if additional supporters are needed and still open, given the above post.

I was very happy to help out with the 42 beta.

[Walter]

Thanks, NYC41, for your will to support which is appreciated.

Just for sake of clarification: everybody owning a DM42, a computer (laptop or desktop), and a colour printer can support our work already today by running the simulator and/or flashing his/her DM42 and testing what is present already. How to do this is explained in Apps E and F of the WP43S Reference Manual (in https://gitlab.com/Over_score/wp43s/-/t ... umentation). If this should not suffice, feel free to ask here.

Each and every WP43S prototype present already in our development team was created this way. The final WP43S will deviate just superficially: it will feature specific keys, bezel, glass, and a specific 'print' on its rear side. Mechanically, electromechanically as well as electronically it will be identical to the new DM41X and DM42.

[NYC41]

> can support our work already today

Indeed, thanks for pointing that out (and I did read about it on the site and the WP43C variant). Unfortunately, during a house move my DM42 has been misplaced, and still have not found it. I did order the new final 41X and may try the 43S code on there in due course.

[wasdaleweasel]

We're planning for a pilot run. Hardware is about ready. Firmware is at 55% but since the 43S is flashable, this is no problem - simply update with the progress of coding.

What we don't know is the amount of real interest in the community. There are contradicting signals received: looking at the number of persons posting in the "43S News", 10 pilot calculators would be sufficient. If, on the other hand, we'd take each and every positive statement made in the last decade for serious, 100 pilot calculators would be appropriate. What can be done? We've to ask you.

So this thread is to place your intents. Placing a purchase option (?) won't cost your money immediately but we rely on realistic numbers and don't want to go bankrupt. As far as we know today, our cost (i.e. what one of us has to lay down for getting one calculator of the pilot batch to Europe ready to be flashed) will be in the order of magnitude of the retail price of the DM42. So I'm afraid the retail price of the WP 43S can't be lower than the one of the DM42. We don't know any better yet thus we can't tell you any better. Please place your options with this in mind.

(IF the pilot batch will be finished in time THEN we plan bringing a suitable amount to Alschwil. So you can save shipping. )

(EDIT: Had to phrase more precisely.)

signed up to this forum simply to say I’ll be buying one especially if there is some deal around converting a pilot unit into a final production unit. (Not signed up before because I have nothing of value to add other than being a passionate HP RPN user with more calcs than my better knows I have )

[amafan]

I'm interested in supporting the beta of the 43S. Keep me in the loop. I just placed an order for the 41X and am eagerly awaiting delivery.

[Walter]

... I’ll be buying one especially if there is some deal around converting a pilot unit into a final production unit.

AFAICS now, pilot units and final units will be identical hardware-wise. There will be major differences software-wise, but updates are most easy by the usual flashing procedure as explained in the Reference Manual.

[strandbygaard]

+1

Also ready to order.

[nephilim]

I will get a second DM42 soon (because it seems I was just 2 weeks late for the updated keyboard and the pretty orange print) and use the "old" model as test vehicle.

[wasdaleweasel]

... I’ll be buying one especially if there is some deal around converting a pilot unit into a final production unit.

AFAICS now, pilot units and final units will be identical hardware-wise. There will be major differences software-wise, but updates are most easy by the usual flashing procedure as explained in the Reference Manual.

Splendid. Oh, the anticipation!