Expert: Ralph Salier-Hellendag - 11/3/2009

Question
what is a solar calculator what are its advantages and disadvantages?

Answer
Hi Namita,

A solar calculator is very simply a calculator that uses a small Photovoltaic cell or solar battery to gather sunlight and convert this into electricity to run the calculator.  Such a calculator works well with many sources of light, even candle light. BUT does not work in the dark.  Many solar calculators also have a battery back up which the solar cell can recharge, but not all do.  

So, advantages:

Uses light to run the calculator
does not need replacement batteries
can work even with candle light (in most cases)

Disadvantages:

Does not work in the dark unless it has a battery back up.