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

When the TI-99/4A was introduced in 1981, Texas Instruments claimed it was both "a major breakthrough in computer technology," and, probably more important, the "lowest priced, 16-bit computer available." It cost only $525.
Description
When the TI-99/4A was introduced in 1981, Texas Instruments claimed it was both "a major breakthrough in computer technology," and, probably more important, the "lowest priced, 16-bit computer available." It cost only $525. The TI 99/4a was a redesign of the TI-99/4 system, which had been a market failure and was discontinued. The new machine sold well, but by August 1982, TI was falling behind its competitors, especially Commodore. So it began offering a $100 rebate on the TI-99/4a. It quickly became the best-selling home computer in America, controlling, by the end of 1982, approximately 35% of the market--150,000 machines a month.
In February 1983, TI cut the price to $150, and then in June 1983, it offered a plastic version of the TI-99/4a for less than $100. But now it had gone too far. It was selling computers for less than cost, resulting in a second quarter loss of $100 million.
The TI-99/4a operated on a TI TMS99000 at 3 MHz and included 16 KB of RAM and 26 KB of ROM. The computer included a RS-232 interface card and a 32K memory expansion card as well as a Data Storage cassette. Texas Instruments controlled the development of software for the machine and offered only around 300 titles. These did not include many of the most popular programs of the time.
Initially, the only way to expand the machine was to use a port on the right side of the console. Peripherals could extend out several feet. To remedy the situation TI released a more convenient Peripheral Expansion Box (PEB) and, surprisingly, sold 250,000 units at $1,475.00 each--far more than the cost of the computer.
Eventually Texas Instruments sold over 2.5 million units of the TI-99/4A. However the company decided that computers were not a promising business and dropped out of the PC market in 1984.
This example of the TI 99/4A was acquired by the donors in 1982. For related objects, see the rest of accession 1990.0494 as well as acquisition 1990.3142.
Location
Currently not on view
Date made
1981-1984
date made
1982
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1990.0494.01
catalog number
1990.0494.01
accession number
1990.0494
This programmable scientific calculator, introduced in 1977, is more powerful than the TI 57 and less so than the TI 59, which were introduced at the same time.
Description
This programmable scientific calculator, introduced in 1977, is more powerful than the TI 57 and less so than the TI 59, which were introduced at the same time. It has a black plastic case and an array of forty-five rectangular plastic keys, most of which can assume a dual function. The calculator could be operated manually by pressing keys. It could run a variety of preprogrammed routines from a module inserted in a compartment in the back of the case. Programs could also be entered using a set of keys and stored in one of ten locations (denoted by the letters A through E and A’ through E’). Fuller instructions for programming are given in a detailed manual that accompanied the calculator (for an example, see 1990.3166.01).
A mark below the keyboard reads: TI Programmable 58 (/) Solid State Software. Behind the keyboard is a silver-colored space to hold labels relating to programs on a programming module. Behind this is a ten-digit display (it may also show five digits and a two-digit positive or negative exponent). An on/off key is at the back and a jack for a power supply is on the right side.
A mark on the back of the calculator reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator (/) SERIAL NO. (/) 0095974 1378ACH (/) ASSEMBLED IN HOLLAND. Below this is a compartment for a battery pack. The lid is labeled: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) BATTERY PACK BP-1A. Below this is a compartment for a program module. The module inside is labeled: MASTER (/) LIBRARY (/) MODULE (/) -1-.
The calculator has a black zippered case with a belt loop.
Compare 1987.0435.04 and 2007.0179.01. (both examples of the TI Programmable 58C).
References:
“Power of Its Pocket Calculators Increased by Texas Instruments,” New York Times, May 25, 1977, p. 89. Suggested list price of new Programmable 58 to be $124.95.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, December 10, 1977, p. E3. Programmable 58 in stock, holiday sale price $99.95.
Eli Maor, “A Summer Course with the TI57 Programmable Calculator,” Mathematics Teacher, 73 #2 (February 1980), pp. 99-106. Describes two experimental summer courses, one for students eight to eleven years old and the other for students twelve to fifteen, that used TI Programmable 58 calculators.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1978
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1987.0435.03
accession number
1987.0435
catalog number
1987.0435.03
This is an example of the first model of a scientific calculator marketed by Texas Instruments. The handheld electronic calculator has a black and ivory-colored plastic case with an array of twenty-three plastic keys.
Description
This is an example of the first model of a scientific calculator marketed by Texas Instruments. The handheld electronic calculator has a black and ivory-colored plastic case with an array of twenty-three plastic keys. Twenty-one of these are square, the 0 and the total keys are rectangular. In addition to ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, and four arithmetic function keys, the calculator has a reciprocal key, a square key, a square root key, a change sign key, an enter exponent key, a clear key, and a clear display key. Text above the keyboard, just below the display and to the left, reads: SR10. Behind the keyboard is a 12-digit LED display. Numbers larger than eight digits are displayed in scientific notation. A mark behind the display reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. An on/off switch is right and slightly above this.
The back edge of the calculator has a jack for a recharger/adapter. A sticker on the back gives extensive instructions. It also gives the serial number SR10 275812.
Unscrewing screws near the top and bottom of the back reveals the workings of the calculator. It has a total of five chips. The largest of these is marked TMS 0120 NC (/) C7333. This is a TMS0120 chip, manufactured in mid-1973. Also in the case is space for three AA nickel-cadmium batteries.
The leather zippered case has both a loop and a hook for attaching the calculator to a belt. It also holds an instruction pamphlet entitled Texas Instruments electronic slide rule calculator SR-10, copyrighted 1973. A warranty registration on the inside of the back page indicates these instructions were originally sold with an SR-10 calculator with serial number 170334, purchased on September 27, 1973.
Texas Instruments described the SR-10 as an “electronic slide rule calculator,” hence the “SR” in the name. The first version of the device, introduced in 1972, did not have the mark SR-10 on the keyboard. The second version (introduced 1973) and the third (introduced 1975) did. This is an example of the first version. According to Ball & Flamm, it initially sold for $149.95.
Compare 1986.0988.351, 1986.0988.354, and 1986.0988.356.
References:
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 153.
The online Datamath Museum includes versions of the SR-10 from 1972, 1973, and 1975.
date made
1972
Date made
1973
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.354
catalog number
1986.0988.354
accession number
1986.0988
This black plastic power adapter has metal prongs to fit into a wall socket and a plastic-covered plug to fit into a calculator. A mark on the object reads in part: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) POWER (/) SUPPLY (/) ASSY IN U.S.A.
Description
This black plastic power adapter has metal prongs to fit into a wall socket and a plastic-covered plug to fit into a calculator. A mark on the object reads in part: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) POWER (/) SUPPLY (/) ASSY IN U.S.A. (/) ADAPTER (/) MODEL AC 9131 (/) 3776.
This model adapter was used with the Texas Instruments SR-40 calculator (for an example see 1986.0988.049) and the Texas Instruments Programmable 59 calculator (for an example see 1990.0609.01).
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1976
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.372
catalog number
1986.0988.372
accession number
1986.0988
This is an example of a scientific calculator introduced by Texas Instruments in 1975 that offered many of the capabilities of the SR-16 calculator at a lower cost.
Description
This is an example of a scientific calculator introduced by Texas Instruments in 1975 that offered many of the capabilities of the SR-16 calculator at a lower cost. The handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case with an array of thirty-one small rectangular plastic keys. In addition to ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a change sign key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a clear display key, and a clear key, the calculator has twelve further function keys. These are for powers, reciprocals, square roots, squares, logs to the base 10, storage, recall, summation, exponents, natural logarithms, entering exponents, and pi. The meaning of the keys is indicated on the keyboard, not on the keys themselves. Text on the keyboard, above the keys and to the right, reads: SR-16 II. Behind the keyboard is a twelve-digit LED display that shows eight-digit positive and negative numbers and two-digit positive and negative exponents. A mark below the display reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. The on/off switch is right and slightly above this mark.
The calculator has a jack for a recharger/adapter along the back edge. A sticker on the back gives instructions. It also gives the serial number SR-16 II 180524. It also reads: ASSEMBLED IN USA. Above the sticker is a compartment for three batteries. A mark below the sticker reads: LTA4375.
Unscrewing four screws on the back reveals the workings of the calculator. It has a total of three chips. The largest of these is marked TMS1016NL (/) KAΔ7543. This is a TMS1016 chip, manufactured in late 1975.
The calculator comes in a dark brown plastic zippered case with belt loop.
References:
[Advertisement], New York Times, May 5, 1976, p. 10. Gives a sale price of $29.
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, October 19, 1975, p. A7. Gives price of $44.95.
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 153.
Online Datamath Museum.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1975
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.352
catalog number
1986.0988.353
accession number
1986.0988
This scientific handheld electronic calculator has a relatively thin black plastic case with an array of forty small rectangular black plastic keys (one key is missing on this example).
Description
This scientific handheld electronic calculator has a relatively thin black plastic case with an array of forty small rectangular black plastic keys (one key is missing on this example). These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a change sign key, a total key, and four arithmetic function keys. Further keys are for reciprocals, percentage, off, on/clear, sines, cosines, tangents, enter exponent, common logarithms, natural logarithms, powers, a constant, left parenthesis, and right parenthesis. Keys in the leftmost column may represent two functions. These are factorial or clear statistical register, square or square root, inverse function or second meaning of key, summation or removal of unwanted data points, storage or mean, recall or standard deviation, summation or a different standard deviation, and exchange or pi. The marks indicating the function of keys are on the keyboard above the keys themselves.
Text above the keys reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS TI-35 (/) Constant Memory. Behind the keyboard is an LCD display that shows eight-digit positive and negative numbers or, in scientific notation, a five-digit mantissa and two-digit exponent.
The calculator has a compartment for two very small batteries. Text on the back reads in part: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator. It also gives the serial number 3607829 and a date mark ATA5080. It also reads: ASSEMBLED IN USA.
The calculator comes in a black plastic jacket. It is part of the Slimline series of Texas Instruments calculators that feature LCD displays.
Compare 1986.0988.325 (another TI-35) and 1986.0988.087 (the Business Analyst II).
References:
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, May 19, 1979, p. SD_B8. Lists price of $22.95.
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, January 16, 1980, p. C12. Lists price of $21.99.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, September 20, 1980, p. SD_B7. Lists price of $22.95.
[Advertisement], The Atlanta Constitution, August 23, 1981, p. L15. Lists regular price of $21.89, sale price of $16.99.
[Advertisement], The Atlanta Constitution, February 7, 1982, p. O7. Lists sale price of $15.99, regular price of $17.89.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, August 11, 1983, p. C3. Lists sale price of $13.90, regular price $15.50.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, December 8, 1984, p.C8. Lists price of $19.99, regular price $25.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, April 30, 1986, p. 7C. Regular price given as $17.99, sale price $14.99.
Texas Instruments, Slimline TI 35 scientific calculator, Dallas: Texas Instruments, 1979. An example of this manual is with 1986.0988.324.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1980
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.324
catalog number
1986.0988.324
accession number
1986.0988
Advertised as a “powerhouse of financial and statistical problem solving,” this handheld financial calculator has a black plastic case and forty small rectangular plastic keys arranged in eight rows.
Description
Advertised as a “powerhouse of financial and statistical problem solving,” this handheld financial calculator has a black plastic case and forty small rectangular plastic keys arranged in eight rows. In addition to ten digit keys, a decimal point key, and a change sign key (all off-white), the calculator has a total key and four arithmetic function keys (all gold). The remaining keys are brown. Pushing the “2nd” key allows keys to serve a “dual function,” which is denoted by text above the keys. The calculator provides a wide variety of statistical and accounting functions. It includes thirty-two step programming.
A mark at the top of the keyboard reads: The MBA. Text behind the display reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. Next to this is an on/off switch. Behind this is an eight-digit LED display.
A jack for a power supply is along the right edge.
Text on the back of the calculator reads in part: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator (/) SERIAL NO. (/) 324706. It has the date mark: ATA3578. It also reads in part: ASSEMBLED IN USA. Below the marks is a compartment that holds a battery pack. Text on it reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS BATTERY PACK BP-7. There are no screws on the back of the case and the chips are not visible.
The calculator has a black zippered plastic case with a carrying loop.
Compare 1986.0988.050 (the TI-55 scientific calculator).
References:
[Advertisement], Boston Globe, November 6, 1977, p. 75. TI MBA selling for $64.95.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, May 20, 1978, p. D4. TI MBA selling for $63.00.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, May 22, 1979, p. B3. Advertising copy quoted from here. Calculator advertised as selling for $57.95.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, November 30, 1980, p. H2. MBA selling for $59.95.
[Advertisement], New York Times, January 30, 1983, p. H31. MBA price $49.50.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1978
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.344
accession number
1986.0988
catalog number
1986.0988.344
This handheld electronic calculator has a light tan plastic case and metal keyboard with an array of twenty-four rectangular plastic keys.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a light tan plastic case and metal keyboard with an array of twenty-four rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, an on/clear key, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, an off key, a square root key, a percentage key, and four memory keys. A mark at the top of the keyboard reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. A mark at the base of the keyboard reads TI-1031. Behind the keyboard an eight-digit LCD display.
The back of the calculator has a compartment for two very small batteries. Text above it reads in part: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator. The space for a serial number is blank. The date mark reads: ATA2881. It also reads: ASSEMBLED IN USA.
The calculator fits in a light tan plastic jacket. Penciled inside it is the name: JON HAgSTRANd. The instruction leaflet inside the jacket is entitled Texas Instruments TI-1031 Portable Electronic Calculator. The copyright date is 1980.
Compare 1986.0988.089 (the TI-1030).
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1981
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.326
catalog number
1986.0988.326
accession number
1986.0988
This pamphlet has the full title: TI Programmable 58/59 Leisure Library Using the power of your Solid State Software module.It describes in detail the operation of twenty-one programs in the entertainment library for the TI 58 and 59 calculators.
Description
This pamphlet has the full title: TI Programmable 58/59 Leisure Library Using the power of your Solid State Software module.
It describes in detail the operation of twenty-one programs in the entertainment library for the TI 58 and 59 calculators. In addition to the first diagnostic program, it discusses programs relating to photography, sports (football, bowling, and golf), chess, and bridge. It also introduces programs for breaking calculator-generated codes and attempting games like blackjack, acey-deucy, craps, hangman, and Nim.
Received with TI Programmable 59 calculator 1990.0609.01.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1977
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1990.3166.03
catalog number
1990.3166.03
nonaccession number
1990.3166
This white folder contains a series of documents used in programming the TI Programmable 59 calculator. Included are thin sheets listing programs, coding sheets, related jottings, and photocopies of magazine articles.
Description
This white folder contains a series of documents used in programming the TI Programmable 59 calculator. Included are thin sheets listing programs, coding sheets, related jottings, and photocopies of magazine articles. Received with TI Programmable 59 calculator 1990.0609.01.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1979-1980
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1990.3166.04
catalog number
1990.3166.04
nonaccession number
1990.3166
This is an example of the first model of an electronic calculator marketed by Texas Instruments under its own name. The handheld electronic calculator has a tan plastic case with a dark brown keyboard. It has an array of eighteen keys, sixteen of them square and two rectangular.
Description
This is an example of the first model of an electronic calculator marketed by Texas Instruments under its own name. The handheld electronic calculator has a tan plastic case with a dark brown keyboard. It has an array of eighteen keys, sixteen of them square and two rectangular. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a clear entry key, and a clear key. A switch at the right in the top row of keys may be set at “CHAIN” or “CONST.” A mark above this switch reads: Datamath. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit LED display.
A jack for a power outlet is along the back edge. An on/off switch is on the left side. A sticker on the back reads: MADE BY (/) TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) INCORPORATED (/) DALLAS, TEXAS. Another sticker reads in part: TI-2500 electronic calculator. It also reads in part: Datamath (/) electronic calculator. It also reads in part: Serial Number (/) 2500-344952 (/) 001-E Manufactured in U.S.A. The sticker indicates that the calculator had a built-in battery that gave six hours of portable operation and fully recharged in ten hours.
Unscrewing three long screws on the back of the case allows one to remove the back. The inside has five chips. The largest reads: TMS0119NC (/) 7310 (/) ZA 072. This is a TMS0119 chip, manufactured in the tenth week of 1973. There is space for four soldered batteries.
This appears to be the second version of the TI-2500, introduced in February of 1973 for a price of $119.95. The calculator initially was introduced in 1972.
Compare 1986.0988.188, 1986.0988.189, 1986.0988.190, 1986.0988.342, and 1986.0988.359.
References:
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 157.
Online Datamath Museum, accessed May 13, 2015.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1973
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.189
accession number
1986.0988
catalog number
1986.0988.189
This simple handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case, metal keyboard with silver-colored trim, and rectangular plastic keys.
Description
This simple handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case, metal keyboard with silver-colored trim, and rectangular plastic keys. The twenty keys include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a percent key, a change sign key, an off key, and an on/clear entry/clear key. A mark behind the keyboard reads: TI-1000. Behind this is an eight-digit LED display. A mark behind it reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. The power jack is on the right side.
The back of the calculator has a compartment for a nine-volt battery at the center. The cover for the compartment is marked on the inside: 2 (/) 1015633. A mark above the compartment reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator. Below the compartment is a space for a serial number but no serial number. A mark reads: LTA5078 (/) ASSEMBLED IN USA.
The calculator comes in a cardboard box. A mark on it reads in part: 1977 Texas Instruments Incorporated.
Compare 1986.0988.052. According to the online Datamath Museum, TI-1000 calculators with silver-colored trim on the keyboard were made after those with gold-colored trim.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1978
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.051
catalog number
1986.0988.051
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld electronic calculator is similar to those of the TI SR-51 family. It has a black plastic case with an array of forty small rectangular plastic keys.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator is similar to those of the TI SR-51 family. It has a black plastic case with an array of forty small rectangular plastic keys. In addition to ten digit keys, a decimal point key, and a change sign key (all in white), the calculator has a total key and four arithmetic function keys (all in gold). The remaining keys are brown. One is for on/clear, one is for off, and another, marked "2nd," is pushed to activate the “dual function” indicated on the keyboard above most of the brown keys. The calculator has a variety of statistical, business, and mathematical functions, and limited memory.
Text above the keys reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) TI Business Analyst. Behind this is an eight-digit LED display. The jack for a charger/adapter is on the right side of the calculator.
Text on the back of the calculator (there is no sticker) reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator (/) SERIAL NO. (/) 9818968 LTA4976 (/) ASSEMBLED IN USA. An empty battery pack inside the middle of the back is marked: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS BATTERY PACK BP-7.
There are no screws to easily take apart the calculator. The device has a black plastic zippered case with a loop.
References:
[Advertisement], New York Times, October 19, 1976, p. 130. List calculator as selling for $42.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, May 13, 1977, p. A29. Business Analyst on sale for $34.95, regular price $39.95.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1976
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.055
catalog number
1986.0988.055
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and a metal keyboard. It has an array of twenty-four rectangular black plastic keys. The meaning of the keys is indicated on the keyboard.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and a metal keyboard. It has an array of twenty-four rectangular black plastic keys. The meaning of the keys is indicated on the keyboard. There are ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a clear key, a clear entry key, a change sign key, and a percentage key. Above these is a row of four memory keys. The on/off switch is on the left edge. A mark above keyboard on the left reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit blue-green vacuum fluorescent display. A mark below the keys reads: TI-1265.
A jack for a power outlet is along the back edge. A sticker on the back reads: US PAT 3819921 AND OTHER PATS PENDING (/) TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) Serial No. A 2028431. The sticker indicates that the calculator should be recharged using an AC9180 adapter/charger. It also reads in part: ASSEMBLED IN USA. Below the sticker is a compartment for a nine-volt battery (the cover is missing on this example). A mark below it reads: 1077 LTA.
Compare the TI-1200 (1986.0988.074). The TI-1200 lacks a change sign key.
Also compare the TI-1250 (1986.0988.053). It has the same keys, but different coloring of the keyboard and a different display.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1977
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.193
accession number
1986.0988
catalog number
1986.0988.193
Texas Instruments continued to manufacture calculators sold by other companies. This example was marketed by the Zayre department store chain. The handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and a metal keyboard.
Description
Texas Instruments continued to manufacture calculators sold by other companies. This example was marketed by the Zayre department store chain. The handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and a metal keyboard. It has an array of twenty-four rectangular black plastic keys. The meaning of the keys is indicated on the keyboard. There are ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a clear key, a clear entry key, a change sign key, and a percentage key. Above these is a row of four memory keys. The on/off switch is on the left edge. A mark above keyboard on the left reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit LED display. A mark below the keys reads: CONCEPT II.
A jack for a power outlet is along the back edge. A sticker on the back reads: US PAT 3819921 AND OTHER PATS PENDING (/) TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) Concept II (/) Serial No. 1027861. It also reads in part: ASSEMBLED IN USA. Below the sticker is a compartment for a nine-volt battery. A mark below it reads: 4276 LTA. Unscrewing four screws on the back of the calculator does not reveal the chip.
Compare the Concept II calculator with the TI-1250 (1986.0988.053). By 1977 Zayre stores sold different calculators under the Concept name.
References:
[Advertisement], Hartford Courant , June 6, 1976, p. 8O, Selling for $14.77, regularly $18.77.
[Advertisement], Hartford Courant , December 5, 1976, p. 25L. Selling for $13.88, regularly $16.88.
Online Datamath museum, accessed June 3, 2015.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1976
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.192
accession number
1986.0988
catalog number
1986.0988.192
This handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case with metal trim around the edge. It has an array of nineteen square plastic keys. This includes ten digit keys (all but the zero key white).
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case with metal trim around the edge. It has an array of nineteen square plastic keys. This includes ten digit keys (all but the zero key white). It also has a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a clear key, a clear entry key, and a percentage key. The on/off switch is at the top left of the keyboard.
A mark above keyboard on the right reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit LED display.
A jack for a power outlet is along the back edge. A sticker on the back reads: TI-1500 electronic calculator (/) Texas Instruments Incorporated. It also reads in part: Serial number (/) 1500 256747. The sticker indicates that the calculator should be recharged using an AC9140 adapter/charger. A mark scratched on the side of the calculator reads: NAU (/) 068499.
The TI-1500 was the successor to TI’s 2500 Datamath series of calculators, and hence early in the history of the company as a producer of electronic calculators. The online Datamath Museum describes three forms of the TI-1500—this is the third form. It dates a calculator of this model with serial number 1500 219114 to the spring of 1976.
References:
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, May 4, 1974, p. B2. TI-1500 selling for $69.95.
[Advertisement], Boston Globe, August 18, 1974, p. 81. TI-1500, regularly $69.95, on sale for $56.50.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, October 26, 1974, p. C2. TI-1500 selling for $59.95.
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, April 4, 1975, p. A6. TI-1500 selling for $49.95.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, December 18, 1975, p. G14. TI-1500 selling for $39.95.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, March 13, 1976, p. A4. TI-1500 selling for $27.95.
Online Datamath Museum, accessed June 1, 2015.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1976
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.196
accession number
1986.0988
catalog number
1986.0988.196
This is an example of the first model of an electronic calculator marketed by Texas Instruments under its own name. The handheld electronic calculator has a tan plastic case with a dark brown keyboard. It has an array of eighteen keys, sixteen of them square and two rectangular.
Description
This is an example of the first model of an electronic calculator marketed by Texas Instruments under its own name. The handheld electronic calculator has a tan plastic case with a dark brown keyboard. It has an array of eighteen keys, sixteen of them square and two rectangular. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a clear entry key, and a clear key. A switch at the right in the top row of keys may be set at “CHAIN” or “CONST.” A mark above this switch reads: Datamath. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit LED display.
A jack for a power outlet is along the back edge. An on/off switch is on the left side. A sticker on the back reads: TI-2500 electronic calculator. It also reads in part: Datamath (/) electronic calculator (/) A Product of Texas Instruments Incorporated. It also reads in part: Serial Number (/) 2500 582951. The sticker indicates that the calculator had a built-in battery that gave four to six hours of portable operation and was fully recharged in ten hours.
Unscrewing three long screws on the back of the case allows one to remove the back. The inside has five chips. The largest reads: TMS 0119 NC (/) C 7335 (/) ZA 0072. This is a TMS0119 chip, manufactured in the thirty-fifth week of 1973. There is space for four soldered batteries.
This appears to be the second version of the TI-2500, introduced in February of 1973 for a price of $119.95. The calculator initially was introduced in 1972.
Compare 1986.0988.188, 1986.0988.189, 1986.0988.190, 1986.0988.342, and 1986.0988.359.
References:
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 157.
Online Datamath Museum, accessed May 13, 2015.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1973
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.188
accession number
1986.0988
catalog number
1986.0988.188
This handheld electronic calculator is similar to the TI Business Analyst II. It has a black plastic case with an array of forty small brown rectangular plastic keys. The function of the keys is indicated on the keyboard.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator is similar to the TI Business Analyst II. It has a black plastic case with an array of forty small brown rectangular plastic keys. The function of the keys is indicated on the keyboard. In addition to ten digit keys, a decimal point key, and a change sign key, the calculator has a total key and four arithmetic function keys. Other keys are for on/clear, off, and "2nd" (pushed to activate the “dual function” indicated on the keyboard below most of the function keys). The calculator has a variety of statistical, business, and mathematical functions, and limited memory.
Text above the keys reads: TI Money Manager. Text behind this reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. Behind this is an eight-digit LED display. The jack for a charger/adapter is on the right side of the calculator.
Text on the back of the calculator reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator (/) SERIAL NO. (/) 054123 LTA 5077 (/) ASSEMBLED IN USA. A sticker on the battery compartment indicates that the calculator was sold by T. K. Enterprises in Lawndale, California. The compartment itself is designed for a nine-volt battery.
There are no screws to easily take apart the calculator. The device has a black plastic zippered case with a loop.
Compare the TI Business Analyst II (1986.0988.087) and the TI-30 (1986.0988.348). Ball & Flamm give a 1977 price of $16.95.
Reference:
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 159.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1977
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.054
catalog number
1986.0988.054
accession number
1986.0988
This is one of a series of handheld electronic calculators manufactured by Texas Instruments. It has a black plastic case, a metal keyboard, and an array of twenty-four rectangular black plastic keys.
Description
This is one of a series of handheld electronic calculators manufactured by Texas Instruments. It has a black plastic case, a metal keyboard, and an array of twenty-four rectangular black plastic keys. In addition to ten digit keys and four arithmetic function keys, there are clear entry/clear/ON, decimal point, total, OFF, change sign, percentage, and four memory keys. Behind these is an eight-digit fluorescent display. A mark between the display and the keyboard reads: TI-1025. A socket for a battery adapter is on the right edge.
The back has a compartment for a battery at the center. A above this reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator (/) A DIM OR ERRATIC DISPLAY INDICATES (/) A DISCHARGED BATTERY. A mark below the compartment reads in part: SERIAL NO. (/) 5096413 4577 (/) ASSEMBLED IN HONG KONG. Twelve patent numbers are listed, ranging from 3819921 to 4014013
U.S. Patent 3819921 was granted to J. Kilby, J. Merryman, and T. J. Van on January 25, 1974, and assigned to Texas Instruments. U.S. Patent 4014013 was granted to David J. McElroy on March 22, 1977.
Compare to 1987.0435.17 and 1986.0988.191. This calculator closely resembles one version of the Western Auto Citation in general appearance and the selection of keys. The keyboard finish is different.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1978
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.194
accession number
1986.0988
catalog number
1986.0988.194
This handheld electronic calculator has a dark brown plastic case and a metal keyboard. It has an array of twenty rectangular brown plastic keys. The meaning of the keys is indicated on the keyboard.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a dark brown plastic case and a metal keyboard. It has an array of twenty rectangular brown plastic keys. The meaning of the keys is indicated on the keyboard. There are ten digit keys a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a clear key, a clear entry key, a change sign key, and a percentage key. The on/off switch is on the left edge. A mark above the keys reads: TI-1200.
A mark above keyboard on the left reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit LED display.
A jack for a power outlet is along the back edge. A sticker on the back reads: US PAT 3819921 AND OTHER PATS PENDING (/) TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) Serial No. A 271475. The sticker indicates that the calculator should be recharged using an AC9180 adapter/charger. It also reads in part: ASSEMBLED IN USA. Below the sticker is a compartment for a nine-volt battery. A mark below it reads: 3876 LTA.
Unscrewing four screws in the back reveals the display and a chip. A mark on the chip reads: TMS0972NL (/) ZA0348 (/) ASP7624. This is a TMS0972 chip.
Compare the TI-1200 (1986.0988.074). The TI-1200 lacks a change sign key.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1976
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.195
accession number
1986.0988
catalog number
1986.0988.195
This simple handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case, a metal keyboard with silver-colored trim, and rectangular plastic keys.
Description
This simple handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case, a metal keyboard with silver-colored trim, and rectangular plastic keys. The twenty keys include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a percent key, a change sign key, an off key, and an on/clear key. A mark behind the keyboard reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS TI-1010. Behind this is an eight-digit LCD display.
The back of the calculator has a compartment for two small batteries. A mark above the compartment reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator. Below the compartment is a space for a serial number but no serial number. A mark reads: ATA2980 (/) ASSEMBLED IN USA.
A mark on the back of the black plastic jacket reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS.
Compare the TI-1030 (1986.0110.089). The TI-1010 has no memory keys.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1980
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.198
accession number
1986.0988
catalog number
1986.0988.198
This handheld electronic calculator has a dark brown plastic case and metal keyboard with an array of twenty-four rectangular plastic keys (actually, the “1” key is missing).
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a dark brown plastic case and metal keyboard with an array of twenty-four rectangular plastic keys (actually, the “1” key is missing). These include ten digit keys, an on/clear key, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, an off key, a square root key, a percentage key, and four memory keys. A mark above the keyboard reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS TI-1030. Behind this is an eight-digit LCD display.
The back of the calculator has a compartment for two very small batteries. Text above it reads in part: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator. Scratched in the space for a serial number is the name: PRISER. The date mark reads: LTA3878. It also reads: ASSEMBLED IN USA.
The calculator fits in a dark brown plastic jacket. A paper slip inside the jacket reads: NOTICE (/) Pressing some of the keys when (/) your calculator is off may cause (/) segments of the display to (/) appear. This is a normal func- (/) tion of the calculator and does (/) not affect the life of your (/) batteries.
Text on the cardboard box indicates that this was part of the Texas Instruments Slimline series of calculators. A price tag indicates that it cost $16.88.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1978
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.089
catalog number
1986.0988.089
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and a metal keyboard. It has an array of twenty-four rectangular black plastic keys. The meaning of the keys is indicated on the keyboard.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and a metal keyboard. It has an array of twenty-four rectangular black plastic keys. The meaning of the keys is indicated on the keyboard. There are ten digit keys a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a clear key, a clear entry key, a change sign key, and a percentage key. Above these is a row of four memory keys. The on/off switch is on the left edge. A mark above the keyboard on the left reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit LED display. A mark below the keys reads: TI-1250.
A jack for a power outlet is along the back edge. A sticker on the back reads: US PAT 3819921 AND OTHER PATS PENDING (/) TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) Serial No. A 2197367. The sticker indicates that the calculator should be recharged using an AC9180 adapter/charger. It also reads in part: ASSEMBLED IN USA. Below the sticker is a compartment for a nine-volt battery. A mark below it reads: 0777 LTA.
Compare this calculator to the TI-1400 (1986.0988.195). The latter lacks memory keys. Also compare the TI-1265 (1986.0988.193). It has the same keys, but different coloring of the keyboard and a different type of display.
Ball & Flamm give a 1975 price of $19.95.
Reference:
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 156.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1977
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.053
catalog number
1986.0988.053
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld electronic calculator is similar to the earlier Business Analyst, but has a larger number of functions and a different display. It has a gold-colored metal front with plastic back and trim, and an array of forty small rectangular plastic keys.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator is similar to the earlier Business Analyst, but has a larger number of functions and a different display. It has a gold-colored metal front with plastic back and trim, and an array of forty small rectangular plastic keys. In addition to ten digit keys, a decimal point key, and a change sign key (all light brown), the calculator has a total key and four arithmetic function keys (all in dark brown). The remaining keys are white. One is for on/clear, one is for off, and another, marked "2nd," is pushed to activate the “dual function” indicated on the keyboard above many of the white and dark brown keys. The calculator has a variety of statistical, business, and mathematical functions, and limited memory.
Text above the keys reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) TI Business Analyst – II (/) Constant Memory. Behind this is an eight-digit LCD display. Text on the back of the calculator reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator (/) SER. (/) NO. 2073604 ATA0380. Further text reads: ASSEMBLED IN USA. A stamp on the back reads: 33. A small compartment is designed to hold two tiny batteries.
The device has a black tan plastic carrying sleeve. It is marked on the back: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS.
References:
The online Datamath Museum says the calculator was introduced in 1978 and made through 1983.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, December 9, 1978, p. C5. Describes calculator in some detail. Price $39.95.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, August 17, 1979, p. A14. Lists sale price of $39.95, was $44.95.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, September 20, 1980, p. SD_B7. Gives price as $44.95.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, December 18, 1981, p. E2. Lists Christmas sale price of $32.90.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, October 21, 1982, p. B8. Lists price of $34.87.
[Advertisement], New York Times, December 11, 1983, p. 81. List price of $34.50.
[Advertisement], The Hartford Courant, August 5, 1984, p. Z4. Sale price $29.97.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1980
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.087
catalog number
1986.0988.087
accession number
1986.0988

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