FE Exam Calculator Guide
FE Exam Engineering Economics Calculator
One of the key topics on every FE exam is Engineering Economics. To help you practice, here is a Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR) calculator, a typical problem you might solve. Below the tool, you’ll find a complete guide to the calculators you can use on the FE exam, as per the NCEES policy.
The total upfront investment required for the project.
The total yearly income or savings generated by the project.
The recurring yearly costs to maintain and operate the project.
The interest rate used to discount future cash flows to their present value.
The expected duration of the project’s operational life.
Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR)
Present Value of Benefits
$167,752
Present Value of Costs
$133,651
Net Present Value (NPV)
$34,101
The Benefit-Cost Ratio is calculated by dividing the present value of all future benefits by the present value of all costs. A ratio greater than 1.0 suggests the project is economically favorable.
Dynamic chart comparing the Present Value of Total Benefits vs. Total Costs.
| Year | Net Annual Benefit | Present Value of Benefit | Cumulative PV |
|---|
Year-by-year breakdown of discounted cash flows.
What is the NCEES Calculator Policy?
The National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES) has a strict policy regarding the types of calculators you can use on the FE exam. To maintain the integrity of the exam and ensure fairness, only specific models are permitted. This policy prevents the use of devices with advanced communication capabilities, extensive memory, or programming features that could provide an unfair advantage. Anyone preparing for the Fundamentals of Engineering exam must purchase one of the approved calculators and become proficient with it long before exam day. Using a non-approved calculator will result in it being confiscated, and potentially your exam being invalidated. This is why understanding the list of calculators you can use on the fe exam is so critical.
Approved FE Exam Calculator Models
The “formula” for success on the FE exam involves having the right tools. The NCEES approves only specific calculator models from three manufacturers: Casio, Texas Instruments, and Hewlett Packard. The list is reviewed annually, but the core models have remained consistent for years. The official policy dictates which series of calculators you can use on the FE exam.
| Manufacturer | Approved Model Series | Key Identifying Text |
|---|---|---|
| Casio | All fx-115 and fx-991 models | “fx-115” or “fx-991” |
| Texas Instruments | All TI-30X and TI-36X models | “TI-30X” or “TI-36X” |
| Hewlett Packard | HP 33s and HP 35s | “HP 33s” or “HP 35s” |
Official NCEES-approved calculator models. Any calculator used must have the model name specified above.
It’s important to note that while the NCEES provides an on-screen digital calculator that emulates the TI-30X IIS, having a physical, approved calculator is highly recommended for speed and familiarity. Relying solely on the digital version can be cumbersome and slow you down. Choosing from the approved list of calculators you can use on the FE exam and practicing with it is a vital part of your FE exam study guide.
Practical Examples: Choosing Your FE Calculator
Choosing between the various calculators you can use on the FE exam often comes down to personal preference and prior experience. Here are a couple of real-world scenarios.
Example 1: The Student Familiar with TI
An engineering student has used Texas Instruments calculators throughout their university courses, most notably the TI-84 Plus. For their FE exam, the natural choice is the TI-36X Pro. Its interface and menu system are similar to other TI calculators, reducing the learning curve. It has powerful features like a multi-line display, equation solver, and vector/matrix operations that are invaluable for many of the FE exam disciplines. The familiarity allows them to perform calculations quickly and confidently under pressure.
Example 2: The Professional Seeking a Powerhouse
A working professional who has been out of school for a few years decides to take the FE exam. They have no strong attachment to a specific brand. After research, they choose the Casio fx-115ES Plus. This calculator is often praised for its “Natural Display,” which shows equations and results just as they appear in a textbook. It’s also very affordable and packed with functions, including complex number calculations, base-n calculations, and 40 scientific constants. This makes it one of the most popular and effective calculators you can use on the FE exam for someone starting fresh.
How to Use This Benefit-Cost Ratio Calculator
The calculator at the top of this page is a practical tool for Engineering Economics problems. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using it effectively.
- Enter the Initial Project Cost: Input the total upfront investment for the project.
- Input Annual Benefits and Costs: Enter the expected recurring income (benefits) and expenses (costs) on a yearly basis.
- Set the Discount Rate: This is your Minimum Attractive Rate of Return (MARR). It’s a critical factor in determining the present value of future money.
- Define the Project Lifespan: Enter the number of years the project is expected to be in operation.
- Analyze the Results: The calculator automatically updates. The main result is the Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR). If the BCR is greater than 1.0, the project’s expected benefits outweigh its costs in today’s money, and it is considered economically viable. The intermediate values provide deeper insight into the project’s financial profile. This is a common type of problem you’ll need to solve with one of the approved calculators you can use on the FE exam.
Key Factors When Choosing From Calculators You Can Use on the FE Exam
Several factors will influence your choice of the best calculator for the FE exam. Beyond simply being on the NCEES approved list, consider these points.
- Prior Familiarity: The single most important factor. If you’ve spent years using a TI, stick with a TI. The muscle memory is a significant time-saver. Don’t switch brands right before the exam.
- Display Type: Some calculators, like the Casio fx-115ES Plus, have a “textbook” display that shows fractions and roots clearly. Others have a more traditional multi-line display. See which one you prefer.
- Solver Functionality: High-end models like the TI-36X Pro have powerful numerical solvers that can save immense time on algebra-heavy problems. This is a key feature to look for in calculators you can use on the FE exam.
- Power Source: Some calculators are dual-powered (solar with a battery backup), while others are battery-only. A dual-power model provides peace of mind on exam day.
- Price: Most approved models are very affordable (typically $20-$25). The exception is the HP 35s, which is much more expensive and generally only recommended for those already expert in its use. Don’t overspend; the best calculator for the FE exam for you is the one you know how to use.
- Key Layout and Feel: The tactile feedback of the keys can make a difference in speed and accuracy. If possible, try to handle a few models before purchasing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I bring two calculators to the exam?
No. NCEES policy allows only one calculator to be brought into the testing room. Make sure it’s one of the approved calculators you can use on the fe exam and that its batteries are fresh.
2. What happens if my calculator is not on the approved list?
If you bring a non-approved calculator, the exam proctors will confiscate it. You will have to take the exam using only the on-screen calculator provided, which can be a significant disadvantage.
3. Is the TI-84 or TI-89 allowed?
No. Graphing calculators with advanced programming or communication features, like the TI-84, TI-89, and Nspire series, are strictly prohibited.
4. Which is the most popular calculator for the FE exam?
The Texas Instruments TI-36X Pro and the Casio fx-115ES Plus are widely considered the two most popular and recommended choices. They offer the best balance of features, ease of use, and price among the calculators you can use on the FE exam.
5. Do I need to clear my calculator’s memory before the exam?
Proctors may inspect your calculator to ensure it doesn’t contain stored programs or notes. It is a good practice to know how to perform a full memory reset and be prepared to do so if asked.
6. Where can I buy an approved FE exam calculator?
Approved calculators are widely available at office supply stores, major online retailers like Amazon, and university bookstores.
7. Does the brand of calculator matter for different FE exam disciplines?
No, the approved calculators are all powerful enough for any of the FE disciplines (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, etc.). The best choice is based on your personal preference, not the subject matter.
8. How far in advance should I get my calculator?
You should purchase your chosen calculator at least 3-4 months before the exam. Use it for all your practice problems and FE civil practice exams to build speed and familiarity. This is a crucial step in preparing with the calculators you can use on the fe exam.