Calcish Introduction
Calcish is a versatile tool designed for macOS users, offering a quick and efficient way to perform calculations, run code, and interact with AI, all within a convenient notebook interface. Whether you're a seasoned JavaScript developer or new to programming, Calcish provides a user-friendly experience that simplifies complex tasks.
Calcish Features
Enhanced Calculation Capabilities
Calcish is not just a calculator; it's a powerful computing tool. With features like math mode, fractions mode, and vectors & matrices mode, it allows for more precise calculations and complex mathematical operations that go beyond the capabilities of standard JavaScript.
Math Mode
In math mode, Calcish enables more accurate calculations with large numbers, surpassing the limitations of JavaScript's default number type. This feature is particularly useful for scientists, engineers, and anyone dealing with large datasets.
Fractions Mode
With fractions mode, you can perform calculations with fractions, which is a rare and useful feature in a programming environment. For example, adding 1/2 and 1/3 results in 5/6, making it easier to work with fractional values.
Vectors & Matrices Mode
Calcish supports vector and matrix operations, allowing you to perform array calculations with ease. Adding two vectors [1, 2] and [3, 4] results in [4, 6], which is a simple yet powerful demonstration of this feature.
Programming and Code Execution
For those familiar with JavaScript, Calcish offers a more convenient alternative to browser consoles or Node REPL for quick tasks, exploratory programming, or data manipulation. The better visual representation of results, coupled with the ability to re-edit and re-run code quickly, makes it a standout tool.
Accessible and Easy to Use
Calcish is designed to be accessible from anywhere. With a global hotkey or a simple click on the menu bar icon, you can open the scratchpad that floats above other apps, ensuring that your workflow is never interrupted.
AI Integration
One of the standout features of Calcish is its integration with local and remote AI. It comes with large language models and allows you to chat with various state-of-the-art AI models for enhanced privacy or via API.
Supported AI Models
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Remote Models (requires API key):
- OpenAI GPT-4o
- OpenAI GPT-4 Turbo
- OpenAI GPT-4
- OpenAI GPT-3.5 Turbo
- Google Gemini Pro
- Cohere Command
- Cohere Command Light
- TextSynth GPT-J
- TextSynth GPT-Neox-20B
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Local Models (one-click download and free to run):
- Meta's Llama 2 7B-Chat
- OpenChat (based on Mistral)
- Intel's Neural Chat 7B (based on Mistral)
- TinyLlama-1.1B Chat
Additional Features
- Decimal Number Type: For exact currency calculations, Calcish offers a decimal number type and literal.
- Documentation: Getting started with Calcish is easy, thanks to comprehensive documentation and zero configuration required.
- Codebook: You can save your work as a codebook for future reference or editing, or simply clear it after use.
Calcish Use Cases
Scientific Research
Researchers can leverage Calcish for complex calculations and data analysis, thanks to its math and matrix capabilities.
Education
Students and educators can use Calcish as a learning tool for JavaScript and programming concepts, with immediate feedback on code execution.
Development
Developers can use Calcish for rapid prototyping, testing code snippets, and exploring new ideas without the overhead of setting up a full development environment.
Calcish FAQs
Q: Is Calcish only for macOS?
A: Currently, Calcish is only available for macOS. However, there may be plans to expand compatibility to other operating systems in the future.
Q: Can I use Calcish as a regular calculator?
A: Absolutely! Calcish can be used as a powerful calculator with advanced features that go beyond simple arithmetic.
Q: How do I get started with Calcish?
A: Simply download and install Calcish on your macOS system. The intuitive interface and comprehensive documentation will guide you through the process.
Q: Does Calcish support JavaScript ES6 and beyond?
A: Yes, Calcish is based on QuickJS, which supports the latest JavaScript standards, including ES6 and beyond.
Q: Can I integrate my own AI models with Calcish?
A: While Calcish comes with its own set of AI models, it also allows you to use remote models via API. This means you can integrate your own AI models as long as you have the necessary API key.
Calcish Updates
Calcish 1.2 Release
The latest version of Calcish introduces support for OpenAI GPT-4o, enhancing the AI capabilities of the tool.
Calcish 1.1 Release
The previous release of Calcish added support for Google Gemini Pro, expanding the range of AI models available for interaction.
Conclusion
Calcish is a multifunctional tool that combines the ease of a calculator with the power of JavaScript and AI, making it an indispensable asset for a wide range of users, from students to professionals. Its intuitive design and robust features set it apart as a must-have tool for anyone looking to streamline their computational tasks and AI interactions.