I still thank my high school Physics instructor who made us learn the slide rule. (Late 1960's) I learned more about calculations of all types from that than from any other course. It sure helps in visualising floating point.
loved my 48g. i bought it in middle college. when everyone else were starting to use the casio 9xxx.
even against the color screens of the casio, the 48 was much better
i give it to my sister when she started college. i use windows calc now.. AGHHH!