Some of the Vernier data-collection applications for the TI-83 Plus and TI-84 Plus calculators make use of the calculator’s system variables (lists, matrices, real numbers, etc.). If one or more of these variables has been ARCHIVED, it cannot be accessed by the application, and generates the ERR:ARCHIVED message to be displayed.

The following applications are affected:

  • EasyData
  • DataMate
  • VST Apps
  • ChemBio
  • Physics
  • PhySci

Variables that CANNOT be Archived

  • Lists: L1, L2, L3, L4, L5, L6, L7, L8, L9, L10, L11, LC, LM, LS
  • Matrices: [A], [B]
  • Real Numbers: A − Z, and θ
  • Strings: Str0, Str1, Str2, Str3, Str4, Str5 and Str6
  • Programs: RegEqu (DataMate only)

Resolving the Issue

Option 1—Manually remove variables from Archive memory
Note: Applications such as EasyData and DataMate are always archived.

  1. Press [2nd][+] (MEM) then choose 2:Mem Mgmt/Del…
  2. Choose 1:All… to show a list of all calculator variables, programs, and applications.
  3. Use the up and down arrow keys to scroll through the list of variables. Look for any variable that show an asterisk (*) in front of the variable name. This indicates that variable is Archived.
  4. If the archived item is from the list above, place the cursor next to that item, then press [Enter]. This should remove the asterisk, indicating the variable is no longer archived.
  5. Go through the entire list and make sure that the appropriate items are no longer archived.

Option 2—Reset the Calculator
CAUTION: This method will ERASE ALL DATA including PROGRAMS and APPLICATIONS. Use with caution.

  1. Press [2nd][+] (MEM) and choose the option to Reset…
  2. Use the right arrow key to highlight ALL, then press [Enter] to select All Memory…
  3. Choose Reset to confirm.
  4. Once the memory is reset, reload any application or programs you need. This can be done from another calculator, the LabPro or CBL 2 (DataMate only), or from a computer using TI Connect.
Published: May 3, 2005. Updated: April 18, 2024.