This paper, which was presented at an Ordinary Meeting of the Institute in London on 18 March 1981 with Dr J. F. Kemp in the Chair, outlines the scope for using modern programmable hand-held calculators at sea, discusses the functions and facilities required for navigation and describes some of the models now available.

For many years the basic instruments for navigation have been the compass, chart, sextant, log and chronometer; an advanced scientific calculator should now be added to the list. Indeed, this type of calculator should form part of the personal navigation equipment of every navigator—marine or air, military or civil—because the way to get the best out of a machine is to have one of your own; you will seldom get the best out of any machine which is shared.