Hobbies And Interests
Installing Games
In order to install games on a TI-89 calculator, you must first purchase a graph link, which will connect the calculator to your computer's USB port. This will only work with PC operating systems. You will also need to install the supported software (see Resources), which will enable the proper transfer of games from your computer to your calculator. Games come in a variety of file formats, but all of these can be transferred with the graph link software.
Shells
Many games require certain assembly programs, known as shells, in order to run properly. Shells are basically a set of preferences and library components that are common to most of these games that enable the coding of these games to be simplified. Before installing games, you must install the proper shell. The most popular shell is known as Doors OS (see Resources), which will enable the use of most games.
TI-89 Games
Most games available for the TI-89 calculator are rather basic by today's standards. Most of these games replicate popular arcade games, such as "Duck Hunt" and "Dr. Mario," both of which are modeled after Nintendo games. Other games are different versions of already popular arcade and online games, such as "Snake," "Pac Man" and even chess. There are some advanced shoot 'em up and first-person games available, but the graphics are not as complex as other gaming platforms.
TI-89 Titanium Games
Though the TI-89 Titanium offers interesting new functionality as a calculator, it is also not compatible with some of the games designed for the original TI-89. Though installing a variety of shells that are of high quality may help solve this problem, two games that will definitely not work with the TI-89 Titanium are "Super Mario Quest" and "TI-Miner." The best way to test if a game works is to install it and run it on a few different shells. If this does not work, then the game is most likely not compatible.