Computers & Business Machines

Imagine the loss, 100 years from now, if museums hadn't begun preserving the artifacts of the computer age. The last few decades offer proof positive of why museums must collect continuously—to document technological and social transformations already underway.

The museum's collections contain mainframes, minicomputers, microcomputers, and handheld devices. Computers range from the pioneering ENIAC to microcomputers like the Altair and the Apple I. A Cray2 supercomputer is part of the collections, along with one of the towers of IBM's Deep Blue, the computer that defeated reigning champion Garry Kasparov in a chess match in 1997. Computer components and peripherals, games, software, manuals, and other documents are part of the collections. Some of the instruments of business include adding machines, calculators, typewriters, dictating machines, fax machines, cash registers, and photocopiers

This spiral-bound 341-page document gives detailed instructions on operating the HP-67 programmable electronic calculator.Currently not on view
Description
This spiral-bound 341-page document gives detailed instructions on operating the HP-67 programmable electronic calculator.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1976
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
1982.0222.04
catalog number
1982.0222.04
accession number
1982.0222
This handheld programmable scientific calculator has an array of thirty-five plastic keys. Most of them can take on four different meanings.
Description
This handheld programmable scientific calculator has an array of thirty-five plastic keys. Most of them can take on four different meanings. One is indicated in white atop the key, one (often a letter) in white to the lower right of the key on the keyboard, one in orange to the upper left of the key on the keyboard and one in blue on the upper right of the key on the keyboard. The functions of the calculator are described in detail in the accompanying manual.
The LCD display behind the keyboard. Results were calculated to twelve-digit precision and displayed either as common numbers or in scientific notation.
Marks above the display read: 32SII and: RPN SCIENTIFIC. A mark above this reads: hp (/) HEWLETT (/) PACKARD.
A compartment at the top of the back holds three button cell batteries. A mark below it reads: SINGAPORE 3406S89420 (/) CE 91 [copyright symbol] HEWLETT-PACKARD COMPANY 1987. The serial number indicates a date of manufacture of February (sixth week) of 1994 (thirty-four years from 1960). A note on the title page of the manual indicates that that the object was purchased October 13, 1994, for $62.95 (including shipping). According to Mier-Jedrezejowicz, the HP-32SII was introduced in 1991 and still in production at least as late as 1995.
Accompanying the calculator is HP32SII RPN Scientific Calculator Owner’s Manual. This is an example of the fourth edition, published in 1993.
The calculator has a black plastic sleeve. A mark on it reads: hp.
This example of the calculator was owned by Tom Simkin, Curator of Volcanology in the Department of Mineral Sciences at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History.
References:
Accession file.
W.A.C. Mier-Jedrzejowicz, A Guide to HP Handheld Calculators and Computers , Tustin, California: Wilson/Burnett Publishing, 1997, pp. 89–90, 95–96, 133.
Accession file.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1994
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
2014.0260.02
accession number
2014.0260
catalog number
2014.0260.02
This square button is designed in style of Piet Mondrian, with squares and rectangles of varying sizes in white, black, yellow, blue and red. A large red section in the lower right-hand corner has black text that reads: COMDEX .
Description
This square button is designed in style of Piet Mondrian, with squares and rectangles of varying sizes in white, black, yellow, blue and red. A large red section in the lower right-hand corner has black text that reads: COMDEX . A yellow rectangle set within the red section with black text reads: CHICAGO.A white rectangle within a red section with black text reads vertically: 1992. A white rectangle in the upper right-hand corner with blue a HP logo and black text reads: HEWLETT PACKARD. A blue rectangle with white text reads vertically: POWERFUL. A white rectangle with black text reads: RELIABLE. A yellow rectangle with black text reads vertically: Friendly. A red section with black text reads curved: INNOVATIVE. White text on alternating blue and black rectangles reads: HP AND ME. A mark on the reverse reads "CDX 4/92" in green ink.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
c 1992
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
2009.3071.634
catalog number
2009.3071.634
nonaccession number
2009.3071
This programmable handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and thirty sloping rectangular plastic keys. The model was introduced in July 1979 and sold through 1983.
Description
This programmable handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and thirty sloping rectangular plastic keys. The model was introduced in July 1979 and sold through 1983. Most keys take on different meanings if the gold "f" shift key, the blue "g" shift key or the black "h" key is pressed. The calculator has limited programming capabilities. It also has “continuous memory,” which allows limited storage of programs when the calculator is turned off. The calculator featured solve and integrate functions not found on previous calculators.
Behind the keyboard are an on/off switch, a program/run switch, and an LED display. A mark on the front edge reads: hp HEWLETT • PACKARD 34C.
The socket for the battery adapter is along the top edge. The battery compartment is at the top of the back. The back also has four rubber feet. Text on the back reads: SERIAL NO. (/) 2252S33344. Another mark reads: MADE IN (/) SINGAPORE. The first four digits of the serial number indicate that the calculator was made in the 52d week of 1982.
The calculator has a black zippered case with a belt loop. A mark on it reads: hp. It also has a power adapter. A mark on it reads in part: 2213 (/) INPUT (/) 90-120V AC (/) 50-60 HZ (/) HEWLETT-PACKARD (/) 82087B (/) CLASS 2 TRANSFORMER (/) MADE IN SINGAPORE.
The following documentation accompanies the calculator:
1. The leaflet HP-34C Quick Reference Card, published in May of 1979.
2. The spiral-bound HP-34C Owner’s Handbook and Programming Guide, published in 1979 and revised in 1980.
3.A pamphlet HP-34C Applications, published in 1982.
4.A pamphlet Solving Problems with Your Hewlett-Packard Calculator, published in 1980.
This device is part of a series that included the HP-31E, the HP-32E, the HP-33E, the HP-33C, the HP-34C, the HP-37E, the HP-38E and the HP-38C. Compare 1987.0435.09 (an HP-25) and 1987.0435.11 (an HP-33E), and 1987.0435.12 (an HP-33C).
The donor of the calculator, Kim Tracy, purchased it as an engineering student. By this time, he also had access to electronic computers, but used the calculator quite heavily.
References:
W.A.C. Mier-Jedrzejowicz, A Guide to HP Handheld Calculators and Computers , Tustin, California: Wilson/Burnett Publishing, 1997, p. 60, 132.
Accession File.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1982
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
2014.0179.02
catalog number
2014.0179.02
accession number
2014.0179
This advanced scientific calculator, to use the maker's phrase, was the first graphing handheld electronic calculator made by Hewlett-Packard. It also was the first HP calculator using algebraic expressions and the first to allow integration and differentiation.
Description
This advanced scientific calculator, to use the maker's phrase, was the first graphing handheld electronic calculator made by Hewlett-Packard. It also was the first HP calculator using algebraic expressions and the first to allow integration and differentiation. It was introduced in 1987 and sold into early 1988.
The object has a black plastic case hinged along the left edge. Opening it reveals a double keyboard. Thirty-five sloping rectangular keys are on the left side and another thirty-seven on the right. Keys on the left side have letters and symbols; keys on the right include digits, symbols for arithmetic operations, and symbols associated with trigonometry, statistics, plotting, integration, and differentiation.
Above the keyboard on the left is a list of object types (e.g. complex number), symbols used to designate that type (e.g. parenthesis for complex numbers) and examples (e.g. (123.45, 678.90) for the complex number 123.45 + 678.90i). The display on the right side shows four rows of text, indicating what number or command is stored in each of four stacks. The display also can be using to show the graph of functions. A mark above it reads: hp HEWLETT (/) PACKARD 28C.
The battery cover is on the right side. A mark on the back reads: COMPLIES WITH THE LIMITS FOR A CLASS B (/) COMPUTING DEVICE PURSUANT TO SUBPART (/) J OF PART 15OF ICC RULES (/) ATI confrome classe B 2729A04383 (/) MADE IN USA. The serial number indicates the device was made in the 29th week of 1987.
Programming for the calculator – both internally and by users – was in a programming language known as RPL (Reverse Polish Lisp or ROM-based Procedural Language), a variation on the programming language LISP.
For related documentation, see 1999.0291.02. For an example of the closely related calculator that succeeded it, the HP-28S, see 2012.0063.01. The HP28-C sold for $235.
This HP28C was used by Professor Norton Starr, who taught mathematics at Amherst College in Massachusetts.
References:
W.A.C. Mier-Jedrzejowicz, A Guide to HP Handheld Calculators and Computers , Tustin, California: Wilson/Burnett Publishing, 1997, pp. 84–87, 133.
David G. Hicks, The Museum of HP Calculators, http://www.hpmuseum.org/, accessed July, 2014.
Yves Nievergelt, “The Chip with the College Education: the HP-28C,” The American Mathematical Monthly, vol. 94, # 9, November 1987, pp. 895–902.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1987
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
1999.0291.01
accession number
1999.0291
catalog number
1999.0291.01
This programmable scientific handheld electronic calculator was Hewlett-Packard’s third model of a handheld scientific calculator (after the HP-35 and HP-45), and its first programmable handheld calculator.
Description
This programmable scientific handheld electronic calculator was Hewlett-Packard’s third model of a handheld scientific calculator (after the HP-35 and HP-45), and its first programmable handheld calculator. Hewlett-Packard staff dubbed it a “personal computer.”
The gray plastic case holds a keyboard with thirty-five keys at the front, two switches, and a display. The keys are square or rectangular on top and slope downward at the front. Many of them may take on three meanings. One is shown on the top of the key, in black or white, one shown on the sloping front of the key in blue, and the third shown in gold behind the key on the keyboard.
The lower part of the keyboard includes data entry keys for ten digits; as well as decimal point, enter, enter exponent, and clear display keys. It also has keys for the four arithmetic operations. Pressing the R/S (run/stop) key in the bottom right corner begins program execution.
Above this set of keys are prefix keys (function, inverse function, store, recall, a second function) which are followed by other keystrokes to complete a command. Above these are five keys for programming – DSP (to format the display), GTO (go to), LBL (label), RTN (return) and SST (single step). Above this are five lettered keys that stand for user-definable functions or subroutines. Behind the keyboard are the on/off switch and a second switch that may be set for writing programs or for running them.
Behind the keyboard is a red LED display for up to ten significant digits, plus two-digit exponent and appropriate signs for both.
The HP-65 was specifically designed to assist in repeated calculations required in such disciplines as science, engineering, finance, statistics, mathematics, navigation, medicine, and surveying. Toward that end, it contained a small magnetic card reader and recorder. Users who had worked out a series of commands they wished to reuse could save the program to a magnetic card. The cards are 7.2 cm. w. x 1.1 cm. d. and made out of mylar coated with a layer of ferric oxide. Programs could have up to one hundred steps. A variety of prewritten programs were available for purchase.
The back of the calculator has an outlet for a power adapter, a battery case, and a sticker that reads in part: HEWLETT-PACKARD HP-65 USER AIDS. A sticker below this one reads: HEWLETT•PACKARD (/) SER. NO. 1608S 02068. The first four digits of the serial number indicate that the calculator was made in the eighth week (March) of 1976. The S signifies manufacture in Singapore.
The calculator has a battery charger and AC adapter, as well as a battery pack that holds three batteries (the batteries were decaying and discarded). A transparent plastic box labeled “STANDARD PAC” contains forty magnetic cards. Nineteen of these are fixed programming cards, one is for cleaning, and the remaining cards for programs by the user. The spiral-bound HP-65 Quick Reference Guide is copyrighted 1974. Also part of the object is a metal security cradle that can be taped or screwed to a desk or other stand. It also could be held via a security cord. The calculator cord (and the security cord, if it was used) were set in holes in the back of cradle and the cradle then locked with a key, making theft more difficult. The cradle is in a box with screws, tape, the security cord, and paper instructions.
The HP-65 sold for $795.
References:
Chung C. Tung, “The ‘Personal Computer’: A Fully Programmable Pocket Calculator,” Hewlett-Packard Journal, May 1974, pp. 2–7. Further articles in this issue of the journal discuss other aspects of the HP-65 calculator.
W.A.C. Mier-Jedrzejowicz, A Guide to HP Handheld Calculators and Computers , Tustin, California: Wilson/Burnett Publishing, 1997, pp. 42–44, 132.
David G. Hicks, The Museum of HP Calculators, http://www.hpmuseum.org/, accessed July, 2014.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1976
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
2011.0023.01
accession number
2011.0023
catalog number
2011.0023.01
This alphanumeric programmable graphing handheld calculator has a dark brown plastic case and an array of forty-nine rectangular plastic keys. Three of the keys are shift keys that determine the effect pressing other keys.
Description
This alphanumeric programmable graphing handheld calculator has a dark brown plastic case and an array of forty-nine rectangular plastic keys. Three of the keys are shift keys that determine the effect pressing other keys. The calculator is capable of solving and plotting a wide array of problems from arithmetic, trigonometry, algebra, statistics, and calculus. The screen is behind the keyboard. A mark behind that reads: hp HEWLETT (/) PACKARD (/) 48SX SCIENTIFIC EXPANDABLE.
An empty compartment that can hold two expansion cards is at the top of the back. Three corroding AAA batteries were removed from a compartment at the bottom and discarded. A mark above this compartment reads: MADE IN USA 3032A01521 (/) HEWLETT PACKARD 1989. The first four digits of the serial number indicate it was made in the thirty-second week of 1990. The calculator has four rubber feet.
The object was received with a zippered case and a spiral-bound instruction manual HP 48SX Scientific Expandable Owner’s Manual Volume 1. This example is Edition 3, published in May of 1990.
The calculator was used by a faculty member at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.
Reference:
W.A.C. Mier-Jedrzejowicz, A Guide to HP Handheld Calculators and Computers , Tustin, California: Wilson/Burnett Publishing, 1997, pp. 98–99, 133.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1990
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
2014.0168.01
catalog number
2014.0168.01
accession number
2014.0168
Professional computer programmer Barry S. Berg was much interested in the using programming in many aspects of his life. During the 1970s he acquired an HP-65 electronic calculator and this notebook of programming strips for it.
Description
Professional computer programmer Barry S. Berg was much interested in the using programming in many aspects of his life. During the 1970s he acquired an HP-65 electronic calculator and this notebook of programming strips for it. They programs relate to aerial navigation and he used them when flying a plane.
For other documentation that relates to the HP-65 and was received from Berg, see 2012.3060.39. An example of the calculator (not used by Berg) is 2011.0023.01.
Reference:
Non-accession file.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1976
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
2012.3060.07
nonaccession number
2012.3060
catalog number
2012.3060.07
This document is designed to help a programmer learn the BASIC programming language, as used by HP. It has Hewlett Packard form number 02116-9077.Currently not on view
Description
This document is designed to help a programmer learn the BASIC programming language, as used by HP. It has Hewlett Packard form number 02116-9077.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1970
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
1994.3128.18
nonaccession number
1994.3128
catalog number
1994.3128.18
This programmable handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and thirty rectangular plastic keys. The model was introduced in May of 1978 and sold through 1982. Most keys take on different meanings if the gold "f" shift key or the blue "g" shift key is pressed.
Description
This programmable handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and thirty rectangular plastic keys. The model was introduced in May of 1978 and sold through 1982. Most keys take on different meanings if the gold "f" shift key or the blue "g" shift key is pressed. The calculator has limited programming capabilities, but no device for storing instructions from one session to the next. Behind the keyboard are an on/off switch, a program/run switch, and a ten-digit LED display. A mark on the front edge reads: hp HEWLETT • PACKARD 33E.
The socket for the battery adapter is along the top edge. The battery compartment is at the top of the back. The back also has four rubber feet. Text on the back reads: SERIAL NO. (/) 1933A74736. Another mark reads: MADE IN (/) U.S.A. The first four digits of the serial number indicate that the calculator was made in the thirty-third week of 1979.
The calculator has a brown and black zippered case.
This machine was a replacement for the HP-25. The series included the HP-31E, the HP-32E, the HP-33E, the HP-33C, the HP-34C, the HP-37E, the HP-38E and the HP-38C. Compare 1987.0435.09 (an HP-25) and 1987.0435.10 (an HP-33C).
A September, 1978, advertisement lists the price of the calculator as $84.95. Mier-Jedrzejowicz gives a price of $100. An October, 1982, advertisement gives a sale price of $64.50.
References:
W.A.C. Mier-Jedrzejowicz, A Guide to HP Handheld Calculators and Computers , Tustin, California: Wilson/Burnett Publishing, 1997, pp. 56–58, 132.
David G. Hicks, The Museum of HP Calculators, http://www.hpmuseum.org/, accessed July, 2014.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, September 16, 1978, p. SD B9.
[Advertisement], New York Times, October 3, 1982, p. 66.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1979
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
1987.0435.11
catalog number
1987.0435.11
accession number
1987.0435
This is an engineering prototype for an improved form of the HP-41CX, one of the first forms of an Hewlett-Packard handheld electronic calculator that could show letters as well as numbers in the display.
Description
This is an engineering prototype for an improved form of the HP-41CX, one of the first forms of an Hewlett-Packard handheld electronic calculator that could show letters as well as numbers in the display. The HP-41 series included the HP-41C (introduced 1979 – code name coconut), the HP-41CV (introduced in late 1980), and the HP-41CX (introduced in 1983). In the course of the 1980s, Hewlett-Packard engineers devised a way of building the calculators with fewer chips that cut the cost in half and improved reliability. These were codenamed “halfnut” calculators. This is a model for the “halfnut” version of the HP-41CX, made in about 1985.
The prototype has a translucent plastic case, and four rubber feet. A plastic template covers the keyboard. This keypad is marked with the functions of the calculator in orange, white, and blue. A latch just below the display releases the template. Under the template are thirty-five plastic keys, marked in white and blue. The calculator lacks the usual keyboard under the keys, having a transparent one instead.
Four buttons behind the keys are for turning on the machine, setting user determined key functions, setting programming mode, and setting alphabetic mode. Behind this is the LCD display.
The top edge has four slots for additional memory or devices. One of these is empty, one of them has a chip encased in plastic, and two of them have plastic frames but no circuitry. The chip enclosed in plastic is a prototype for an infrared “blinkie” transmitter linking the calculator to a printer. Such a transmitter originally was envisioned for calculators in the HP-28 series, but a Hewlett-Packard engineer suggested that HP-41 calculators also could link to the printer.
A mark along the front edge of the calculator reads: hp HEWLETT • PACKARD 41CX. Text at the top of the back reads: SERIAL NO. However, there is no serial number.
The donor of this model, David Rabinowitz, was an employee of Hewlett-Packard from 1975 until 1989 and worked on the design of the halfnut form of the HP41CX calculator as well as on HP’s infrared printers.
The 41C and 41CV sold until 1990, the 41CX until 1991. (another source (http://www.hpmuseum.org/hp41.htm) gives dates of discontinuation of 1985 for the HP-41C, 1990 for the HP-41CV and 1990 for the HP-41CX).
References:
W.A.C. Mier-Jedrzejowicz, A Guide to HP Handheld Calculators and Computers , Tustin, California: Wilson/Burnett Publishing, 1997, pp. 65–66, 133.
David G. Hicks, The Museum of HP Calculators, http://www.hpmuseum.org/, accessed July, 2014.
Accession file.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1982
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
2004.0165.01
accession number
2004.0165
catalog number
2004.0165.01
This black leather carrying pouch for an electronic calculator has a Velcro fastening and a loop that fits over a belt. A mark on the belt side reads: H. B. BECKER. "H.B. Becker" written in gold ink on back of case.The HP-45 calculator received with the pouch is 2004.3053.01.
Description
This black leather carrying pouch for an electronic calculator has a Velcro fastening and a loop that fits over a belt. A mark on the belt side reads: H. B. BECKER. "H.B. Becker" written in gold ink on back of case.
The HP-45 calculator received with the pouch is 2004.3053.01. The case also has a pocket that holds an HP-45 Quick Reference Guide (2004.3053.05).
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1973
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
2004.3053.03
nonaccession number
2004.3053
catalog number
2004.3053.03
This programmable handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and thirty rectangular plastic keys. The model was introduced in July of 1979 and sold through 1983. Most keys take on different meanings if the gold "f" shift key or the blue "g" shift key is pressed.
Description
This programmable handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and thirty rectangular plastic keys. The model was introduced in July of 1979 and sold through 1983. Most keys take on different meanings if the gold "f" shift key or the blue "g" shift key is pressed. The calculator has limited programming capabilities. It also has “continuous memory,” which allows limited storage of programs when the calculator is turned off. Behind the keyboard are an on/off switch, a program/run switch, and an LED display. A mark on the front edge reads: hp HEWLETT • PACKARD 33C.
The socket for the battery adapter is along the top edge. The battery compartment is at the top of the back. The back also has four rubber feet. Text on the back reads: SERIAL NO. (/) 2020S37048. Another mark reads: MADE IN (/) SINGAPORE. The first four digits of the serial number indicate that the calculator was made in the twentieth week of 1980.
The calculator has a black zippered case.
This device is part of a series that included the HP-31E, the HP-32E, the HP-33E, the HP-33C, the HP-34C, the HP-37E, the HP-38E and the HP-38C. Compare 1987.0435.09 (an HP-25) and 1987.0435.11 (an HP-33E).
A December 1980, advertisement lists the price of the calculator as $79.95. Mier-Jedrzejowicz gives a price fluctuating between $120 and $65.
References:
W.A.C. Mier-Jedrzejowicz, A Guide to HP Handheld Calculators and Computers , Tustin, California: Wilson/Burnett Publishing, 1997, pp. 56–58, 132.
David G. Hicks, The Museum of HP Calculators, http://www.hpmuseum.org/, accessed July, 2014.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, December 11, 1980, p. A43.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1980
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
1987.0435.10
catalog number
1987.0435.10
accession number
1987.0435
A mark on this turquoise envelope reads: Important (/) Warranty (/) Information (/) Inside.
Description
A mark on this turquoise envelope reads: Important (/) Warranty (/) Information (/) Inside. The envelope includes a packing slip, a warranty card, a pamphlet entitled Accessories for Hewlett-Packard Pocket Calculators, a cancelled check for the purchase of the calculator, and a slightly used sheet of property stickers. These materials all relate to HP-45 handheld electronic calculator 2004.3053.01.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1973
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
2004.3053.07
nonaccession number
2004.3053
catalog number
2004.3053.07
Currently not on view
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1987
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
1999.0291.02
catalog number
1999.0291.02
accession number
1999.0291
The HP-35 was the first handheld electronic calculator to display all the functions represented on a slide rule. It has a black plastic case and a total of thirty-five square or rectangular plastic keys.
Description
The HP-35 was the first handheld electronic calculator to display all the functions represented on a slide rule. It has a black plastic case and a total of thirty-five square or rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, and a pi key, all colored tan. In addition there are four arithmetic function keys left of the digit keys, a relatively long enter key, a change sign key, an enter exponent key, a clear x key, and a clear key, all in blue. Additional black keys are for powers, logs to base ten, natural logs, exponents, square roots, trigonometric functions (sine, cosine, tangent and the inverses of these), simple inverses, exchange, roll down, store, and recall. Above the keys is an on/off switch. There is no hole next to the switch to indicate that the display is on, as there was in the very first HP-35 calculators. Behind the switch is a red light emitting diode display that shows results. Numbers with absolute value between one hundredth and 10 billion are given in decimal form. Smaller or larger ones appear in scientific notation, with the appropriate power of ten occupying the three rightmost digit places (two for digits, one for a sign). The negative sign for the result, if needed, is at the far left. A mark on the front edge of the calculator reads: hp HEWLETT•PACKARD.
The back of the calculator has a plug for a three-prong power adapter (this example has no adapter), a compartment for a battery pack, four rubber feet, and a sticker entitled: HP-35 INSTRUCTIONS. Text below the sticker reads: HEWLETT-PACKARD (/) 3.75V SER. 1143A 25578 500mw (/) MADE IN U.S.A. PATENT PENDING. The first part of the serial number is printed, the last five digits are stamped with unit numbers 2 mm. high. A red sticker inside the battery pack reads: CAUTION (/) USE ONLY H. P. BATTERY PACK (/) MODEL NO 82001A (/) OTHER BATTERIES MAY DAMAGE CIRCUITS.
This calculator was part of the collection of John R. Priser. Who purchased it initially is not known.
References:
W.A.C. Mier-Jedrzejowicz, A Guide to HP Handheld Calculators and Computers , Tustin, California: Wilson/Burnett Publishing, 1997, pp. 36–39, 132.
David G. Hicks, The Museum of HP Calculators, http://www.hpmuseum.org/, accessed July, 2014.
Thomas M. Whitney, France Rodé, and Chung C. Tung, “The ‘Powerful Pocketful’: an Electronic Calculator Challenges the Slide Rule,” Hewlett-Packard Journal, June 1972, pp. 2–9.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1972
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
1986.0988.258
catalog number
1986.0988.258
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld electronic calculator, relatively small and simple for a calculator sold by Hewlett-Packard, was introduced on February 1, 1975 and sold through 1978. It was one a series of calculators of this size that also included the HP-21, HP-22, HP-25C, HP-27, and HP-29C.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator, relatively small and simple for a calculator sold by Hewlett-Packard, was introduced on February 1, 1975 and sold through 1978. It was one a series of calculators of this size that also included the HP-21, HP-22, HP-25C, HP-27, and HP-29C. The calculator has a tan plastic case with a black or dark brown keyboard and thirty rectangular plastic keys. Many keys take on different meanings if the gold "f" shift key or the blue "g" shift key is pressed. The calculator has limited programming capabilities but no device for storing instructions from one session to the next. Behind the keyboard are an on/off switch, a program/run switch, and a twelve-digit LED display (either ten digits plus sign, or eight significant digits plus two digits of an exponent plus signs for both). A mark on the front edge reads: hp HEWLETT • PACKARD 25.
The reverse side of the calculator has prongs for a power adapter/recharger as well as a battery compartment with a frame for two batteries. Stamped above the battery pack is the number: 1511A25777. The first four numbers of the serial number indicate that the calculator was made in the eleventh week of 1975. A tag at the base of the back reads: HEWLETT-PACKARD (/) MADE IN USA(/) 2.5 V 500mW.
The calculator is in a black plastic zippered carrying case marked: ti. It does not fit well.
In November, 1975, the calculator sold for $195.
References:
W.A.C. Mier-Jedrzejowicz, A Guide to HP Handheld Calculators and Computers , Tustin, California: Wilson/Burnett Publishing, 1997, pp. 46–48, 132.
David G. Hicks, The Museum of HP Calculators, http://www.hpmuseum.org/, accessed July, 2014.
Randall Neff and Lynn Tillman, “Three New Pocket Calculators: Smaller, Less Costly, More Powerful,” Hewlett-Packard Journal, November 1975, pp. 2-7, 12. Much of the issue is devoted to the HP-21, HP-22 and HP-25.
[Advertisement], Electronics, vol. 48 #23, November 13, 1975, pp. 92-93.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1975
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
1987.0435.09
catalog number
1987.0435.09
accession number
1987.0435
This fifty-nine page manual describes the operation of the HP-45 handheld electronic calculator. A service card is at the back. For the calculator, see 2004.3053.01. For another example of the manual, see 1982.0222.02.Currently not on view
Description
This fifty-nine page manual describes the operation of the HP-45 handheld electronic calculator. A service card is at the back. For the calculator, see 2004.3053.01. For another example of the manual, see 1982.0222.02.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1973
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
2004.3053.06
nonaccession number
2004.3053
catalog number
2004.3053.06
This small notebook gives quick information about running the HP-55 programmable handheld electronic calculator. For a related object see 1980.0813.01.Currently not on view
Description
This small notebook gives quick information about running the HP-55 programmable handheld electronic calculator. For a related object see 1980.0813.01.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1975
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
1980.0813.04
catalog number
1980.0813.04
accession number
1980.0813
The HP-35 was the first handheld electronic calculator to display all the functions represented on a slide rule. It has a black plastic case. It has a total of thirty-five square or rectangular plastic keys.
Description
The HP-35 was the first handheld electronic calculator to display all the functions represented on a slide rule. It has a black plastic case. It has a total of thirty-five square or rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, and a pi key, all colored tan. In addition there are four arithmetic function left of the digit keys, a relatively long enter key, a change sign key, an enter exponent key, a clear x key, and a clear key, all in blue. Additional black keys are for powers, logs to base ten, natural logs, exponents, square roots, trigonometric functions (sine, cosine, tangent and the inverses of these), simple inverses, exchange, roll down, store, and recall. Above the keys is an on/off switch. There is no hole next to the switch to indicate that the display is on, as there was in the very first HP-35 calculators. Behind the switch is a red LED display which shows results. Numbers with absolute value between one hundredth and 10 billion are given in decimal form. Smaller or larger ones appear in scientific notation, with the appropriate power of ten occupying the three rightmost digit places (two for digits, one for a sign). The negative sign for the result, if needed, is at the far left. A mark on the front edge of the calculator reads: hp HEWLETT•PACKARD.
The back of the calculator has a plug for a three-prong power adapter, a compartment for a battery pack, four rubber feet, and a sticker entitled: HP-35 INSTRUCTIONS. Text below the sticker reads: HEWLETT-PACKARD (/) 3.75V 500MW (/) MADE IN USA PATENT PENDING. A sticker inside the battery pack reads: PROPERTY OF (/) WILLIAM SOMMERWERCK. Another sticker there reads: HEWLETT-PACKARD (/) SER.NO. 1143A 37972. A red sticker on the lid of the battery pack reads: CAUTION (/) USE ONLY H. P. BATTERY PACK (/) MODEL NO 03501A (/) OTHER BATTERIES MAY DAMAGE CIRCUITS.
In addition to the calculator, the gray plastic case contains a power adapter labeled in part HEWLETT - PACKARD (/) MODEL 03502A. It also includes a battery pack, a carrying pouch, and an HP-35 Operating Manual. The owner’s portion of the warranty is stored in the back of the manual and gives a date received of 8/4/72.
The donor, William Sommerwerck, gave the calculator in memory of his aunt, Miss Jeanette Fox, who gave him the money to buy the calculator.
References:
W.A.C. Mier-Jedrzejowicz, A Guide to HP Handheld Calculators and Computers , Tustin, California: Wilson/Burnett Publishing, 1997, pp. 36-39, 132.
David G. Hicks, The Museum of HP Calculators, http://www.hpmuseum.org/, accessed July, 2014.
Thomas M. Whitney, France Rodé, and Chung C. Tung, “The ‘Powerful Pocketful’: an Electronic Calculator Challenges the Slide Rule,” Hewlett-Packard Journal, June 1972, pp. 2–9.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1972
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
CI.335639
accession number
1977.0113
catalog number
335639
This hard gray clamshell plastic case has foam inserts on the top. It holds an HP-45 calculator, its battery charger, its carrying pouch, and related documentation.
Description
This hard gray clamshell plastic case has foam inserts on the top. It holds an HP-45 calculator, its battery charger, its carrying pouch, and related documentation. The case has no maker’s marks.
For the calculator and other parts, see 2004.3053.01, 2004.3053.02, 2004.3053.03, 2004.3053.05, 2004.3053.06, and 2004.3053.07.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1973
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
2004.3053.04
nonaccession number
2004.3053
catalog number
2004.3053.04
This triangular button has a black, blue, red, and yellow design with white and black text that reads: HP Me Novell. The Power of Three. At the bottom in white is the Hewlett Packard logo. A mark in black ink on the reverse reads: CDX 4/92.Currently not on view
Description
This triangular button has a black, blue, red, and yellow design with white and black text that reads: HP Me Novell. The Power of Three. At the bottom in white is the Hewlett Packard logo. A mark in black ink on the reverse reads: CDX 4/92.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
c 1992
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
2009.3071.511
catalog number
2009.3071.511
nonaccession number
2009.3071
This rectangular button has gold text on a black background that reads: I GOT CONNECTED AT HP. It has an image of an internet cable hookup and the Hewlett Packard logo.Currently not on view
Description
This rectangular button has gold text on a black background that reads: I GOT CONNECTED AT HP. It has an image of an internet cable hookup and the Hewlett Packard logo.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
c 1990s?
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
2009.3071.510
catalog number
2009.3071.510
nonaccession number
2009.3071
This handheld programmable scientific calculator has an array of thirty-nine plastic keys. Most of these can take on three different meanings. One is indicated in white atop the key, one in orange on the keyboard behind the key, and one in blue on the sloping front of the key.
Description
This handheld programmable scientific calculator has an array of thirty-nine plastic keys. Most of these can take on three different meanings. One is indicated in white atop the key, one in orange on the keyboard behind the key, and one in blue on the sloping front of the key. In addition to representing digits, arithmetic functions, trigonometric and inverse trigonometric functions, square roots, powers, logarithms, natural logarithms and the number pi, keys can be used to compute various statistical functions. Additional keys are used in setting up programming routines.
The LCD display behind the keyboard exhibited results in common form or in scientific notation.
A mark on the front of the calculator reads: hp (/) 11C. A mark at the bottom of the front reads: HEWLETT-PACKARD. A paper tag taped to the back of the calculator gives an elaborate trigonometric formula. A compartment on the top left holds three silver-colored batteries.
According to Mier-Jedrezejowicz, the HP-11C was introduced in 1981 and discontinued in 1989. This example has a serial number on the back of 2534A49130. This indicates that the calculator was made in the thirty-fourth week of 1985 (25 years after 1960) in the United States (A).
The calculator has a black plastic sleeve. A mark on it reads: hp.
This example of the calculator was owned by Tom Simkin, Curator of Volcanology in the Department of Mineral Sciences at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History.
References:
Accession file.
W.A.C. Mier-Jedrzejowicz, A Guide to HP Handheld Calculators and Computers , Tustin, California: Wilson/Burnett Publishing, 1997, pp. 70–71, 133.
David G. Hicks, The Museum of HP Calculators, http://www.hpmuseum.org/, accessed July, 2014.
Accession file.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1985
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
2014.0260.01
catalog number
2014.0260.01
accession number
2014.0260

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