Still many computer users do not use the computer for performing simple calculation but they use their old fashioned pocket calculator - even sitting in front of the PC.

To replace the pocket calculator once and for all the user interface of the computer for doing calculations should be at least as simple and intuitive as a pocket calculator.

Ariana Plus is a software that allows doing mathematics straight forward and intuitive on any standard personal computer.

Moreover it allows input via handwriting recognition on a Tablet-PC or on a conventional PC using a Graphic Tablet.

• Calculation input similar to word processors

Similar to word processing software the calculations can be entered in continuous text. The calculations can comprise equations as well as annotations - both can be entered alternately and without the need of switching input modes, even in the same line. Text formatting is possible within equations as well as within annotations.

• Arbitrary order of input

Variables can be used independently where they are defined - above or below in the document. This feature allows an intuitive handling of formulas and variables: First a formula can be entered then the regarding variables can be defined below. (see the example in the screen-shot: a and b are used before they are assigned.)

• Real-time processing of input

Each input is processed in real-time. The results are re-calculated and displayed immediately. (Note that for performance reasons priority is given on displayed information.)

• Equations and annotations are coequal

Ariana Plus recognizes if equations or annotations are entered. The user does not have to change any input mode. Equations and annotations can be entered consecutive.

• Re-definition of variables is prohibited

Each variable can be assigned only once. It is accessible in the whole document. Therefore any re-arrangement of the document can not effect the results. Variable names are case sensitive.

• Natural display of equations

Equations are displayed in a natural way: a fraction with a fraction stroke, a root with a radical sign, an exponent is shown superscript (see screen-shot).

• Automatic classification of the equals sign

Ariana Plus classifies automatically, whether an entered equals sign represents an assignment (a=3), an inquiry (a= ) or a logical operator. This again to allow intuitive input of calculations.

• Handwriting recognition of calculations

Calculations can be written completely with the pen of a Tablet-PC or with a graphic tablet. The handwriting is recognized immediately after each character entered. So no separate proof-reading becomes necessary as mis-recognitions become obvious during input. The handwriting recognition comprises numbers, alphabetic characters, special characters, mathematical signs, and Greek characters. (The software can of course be used completely also on standard personal computers without pen input.)

3.1. Hardware

Minimum requirements:

• 600 MHz Pentium Processor or equivalent
• 16 MB of RAM
• 10 MB of available hard-disk space

Most standard PCs and any Tablet-PC meet the Minimum System Requirements.

To use the hand writing recognition the following devices are required:

• Tablet-PC (with Wintab-Driver installed) or
• Graphic tablet (with Wintab-Driver, e.g. Wacom)

If the handwriting recognition shall be used Ariana Plus requires an installed Wintab-Driver. Most graphic tablets install the Wintab-Driver during setup. For most Tablet-PC the Wintab-Driver have to be installed separately. Drivers from Wacom for Penabled Tablet-PC are available for free at http://www.wacom.com/tabletpc/driver.cfm or http://www.wacom-europe.com/uk/downloads/driver/driver.asp (Wacom Graphics Driver for Penabled Tablet-PCs).

3.2. Operating System

Ariana Plus is optimized for the systems:

• Microsoft Windows XP
• Microsoft Windows XP for Tablet-PC

Ariana Plus also runs on the following systems:

• Microsoft Windows 2000
• Microsoft Windows NT 4.0
• Microsoft Windows ME
• Microsoft Windows 98

Before installing Ariana Plus on one of these systems the Microsoft system update "GDI+ Platform SDK Redistributable (English)" must be installed. To open the Ariana Plus setup file on these systems a zip-program, e.g. Winzip is required.