The Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE is an advanced color graphing calculator that allows students to visualize math and science concepts in full color. With a backlit, high resolution, full-color LCD display and familiar TI-84 Plus functionality, the TI-84 Plus CE makes comprehension of abstract concepts easier. However, like any electronic device, the TI-84 Plus CE needs to be charged regularly in order to operate. This guide will provide step-by-step instructions on how to properly charge your TI-84 Plus CE calculator.
What You’ll Need
Before charging your TI-84 Plus CE, you’ll need to gather the following supplies:
- TI-84 Plus CE graphing calculator
- USB charging cable – this is usually included with the calculator
- Power source – either a computer USB port or a wall charger/adapter
The TI-84 Plus CE comes with a USB mini-B charging cable. One end connects to the charging port on the calculator, and the other end connects to a power source like a computer or wall adapter. If you don’t have the original charging cable, you can use any standard USB mini-B cable.
Charging via Computer
The easiest way to charge your TI-84 Plus CE is by connecting it directly to the USB port on your computer using the charging cable. Here is the process:
- Make sure your computer is turned on and not in sleep mode.
- Plug the mini-B end of the charging cable into the port on the bottom of the calculator.
- Plug the larger end of the cable into an available USB port on your computer.
- The battery icon on the TI-84 Plus CE screen will blink to indicate it is charging.
- Leave the calculator connected until the battery icon stops blinking and remains solid. This indicates a full charge.
- Once fully charged, unplug the cable from both the calculator and computer.
Charging from a laptop or desktop computer USB port usually takes 2-3 hours for a full charge. Make sure your computer stays on and doesn’t go into sleep mode during this time.
Charging via Wall Adapter
You can also charge your TI-84 Plus CE directly from a wall outlet using a USB charging adapter or power brick. Here is the process:
- Get a USB charging adapter that outputs 5V of power.
- Plug the mini-B end of the charging cable into the TI-84 Plus CE.
- Plug the larger USB end into your wall charger/adapter.
- Plug the wall charger into an electrical outlet.
- The battery icon on the calculator will blink as it charges.
- Once the battery icon stops blinking and remains solid, the TI-84 Plus CE is fully charged.
- Unplug the cable from the calculator and charger when finished.
Charging from a higher-power USB wall adapter is faster, usually 1.5-2 hours for a full charge. Make sure to use an adapter designed for USB charging, with an output of 5V and at least 500mA.
Charging Time
The amount of time it takes to fully charge your TI-84 Plus CE can vary:
- From a computer USB port: Approximately 2-3 hours
- From a USB wall charger: Approximately 1.5-2 hours
Charging times depends on factors like:
- Output power of the USB port/adapter (higher output = faster charge)
- How depleted the battery in the calculator is (a fully depleted battery will take longer)
- If you are using the calculator while charging (using it will slow the charge time)
In general, expect a full charge from a computer USB to take around 2-3 hours, and from a dedicated higher-power USB wall adapter to take 1.5-2 hours.
LED Indicator Lights
The TI-84 Plus CE provides charging status through simple LED lights:
| LED Light Status | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Blinking Battery Icon | Calculator is charging, battery not full yet |
| Solid Battery Icon | Calculator battery is fully charged |
So if you see the battery icon blinking, you know the charge process is still underway. When it stops blinking and remains solidly lit, that signals a full charge. Easy!
Charging Tips
To keep your TI-84 Plus CE performing at its best, follow these charging tips:
- Don’t let the battery become fully depleted if possible. Letting lithium-ion batteries completely drain can damage them over time.
- Recharge as often as you can, such as each night. Partial recharges are fine and won’t cause “battery memory.”
- If storing for a long period, charge to around 50% power and recharge every 6 months.
- Avoid exposing calculator to extreme heat while charging, which can damage the battery.
- Only use approved charging accessories that provide 5V power and have sufficient electrical ratings.
- If calculator won’t charge, make sure cable connections are secure or try a different USB port/charger.
Following these tips will maximize your battery life and keep your TI-84 Plus CE graphing calculator charging smoothly.
Troubleshooting Charging Issues
If your TI-84 Plus CE won’t charge properly, here are some troubleshooting steps to take:
- Make sure connections are secure – unplug and reconnect the charging cable at both ends.
- Try charging from another USB port or power source.
- Check that the USB port/charger is active and works with other devices.
- Inspect the charging port for obstructions like lint or debris.
- Plug the cable directly into your computer instead of hub/splitter.
- Update your TI Connect CE software and calculator operating system.
- As a last resort, contact Texas Instruments support for further assistance.
The most common charging issues stem from loose connections or using an incompatible power source. Following basic troubleshooting can help identify and resolve any problems.
Conclusion
Charging your Texas Instruments TI-84 Plus CE graphing calculator is simple and straightforward. Just remember these key steps:
- Use the included USB charging cable, or any USB mini-B cable.
- Connect to a powered USB port on a computer or a USB wall charging adapter.
- Look for blinking battery icon to indicate charging is in progress.
- Let charge until battery icon is solidly lit for a full charge.
- Aim for partial recharges often to maximize battery lifespan.
- Follow troubleshooting tips if calculator won’t charge properly.
With a vibrant color display and rechargeable battery, the TI-84 Plus CE is designed for convenience. Keep it powered up and ready for your math coursework with regular charging.