Converting Numbers Between Bases


Introduction

To perform base conversion on a number, the number must be entered into the calculator using binary format. A binary integer is indicated by starting the entry with the pound symbol (#) and ending with a suffix to indicate the base of the number. Numbers entered in this way are referred to as binary, regardless of their base.

Entering a binary number

To enter a binary number, do the following:
  1. Type in a pound symbol (#).
  2. Enter the number.
  3. Enter the base of the number using a lower case letter.
    NOTE: The base choices are b, d, h, and o for binary (base 2), decimal, hexadecimal, and octal respectively.

Example of binary number entry

For example, to enter 142 hex into the calculator, type the following:
#142h
For 11010 in binary, enter the following:
#11010b

Base conversion

After the number has been entered, the calculator converts it into the base the calculator is set for. If it is not set for the desired base, type BIN, DEC, HEX, or OCT to convert it to appropriate base. With the example shown above, if after entering #142h, DEC is typed, the display will show the following:
#322d
indicating 142 hex is the same as 322 decimal.

Further information

Refer to the User’s Guide for more information about using binary integers. For an HP 48 calculator, this information is in Chapter 15. For an HP 49 calculator the information is in Chapter 8 of the AdvancedUser’s Guide.