A simple Calculator

This is a simple calculator app built in MATLAB using the uicontrol GUI components. It runs in a pop-out figure window.

Simple MATLAB Calculator GUI

Description

This is a simple calculator app built in MATLAB using the uicontrol GUI components. It runs in a pop-out figure window and mimics the functionality of a basic calculator. The purpose of this project is to help learners understand how to create interactive graphical interfaces in MATLAB with buttons, callbacks, and persistent state handling.

This calculator can:

• Perform basic arithmetic operations (+, -, *, /)
• Handle decimal number inputs
• Display results using a numeric label
• Include utility functions like clear (C) and exit (E)

The app was developed using a modular approach, with button generation and callback handling stored in functions for clean organization and extensibility.How to Use

1. Run the script in MATLAB. A new window titled "Calculator" will open.
2. Click number buttons (e.g., 1, 2, ., etc.) to build the first number.
3. Click an operator (+, -, *, or /) to store that operation.
4. Click the second number, then press = to evaluate.
5. Press C to clear the current entry.
6. Press E to exit the app.

For example:

• Click: 1 → . → 5 → + → 2 → =Output: 3.5

The label at the top updates live with either the number you're entering or the result of the operation.Code Structure

• createNumberButtons(f)Generates all calculator buttons dynamically using a nested loop. Assigns appropriate callbacks for each key.
• handleCalculatorInput(f, key)Handles user interaction. Tracks inputs, performs operations, and updates the GUI label.
• f.UserDataUsed to store the calculator's internal state (currentInput, firstNumber, operation, and label handle) across button presses.

Requirements

• MATLAB R2018b or later (due to use of anonymous functions and UserData)
• No additional toolboxes required

Screenshots

(Consider including a screenshot of the calculator GUI here on File Exchange.)

References

• Core logic and GUI design implemented collaboratively with ChatGPT by OpenAI, April 2025.
• MATLAB Documentation – uicontrol, UserData
• Special thanks to Stephen Wilkerson for project concept, implementation, and packaging for educational purposes.