Computers & Business Machines

Apple II Personal Computer

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

Name: Texas Instruments

Texas Instruments Ac9131 Adapter

This is the power adapter received with a Texas Instruments programmable handheld electronic calculator. For the calculator, see 1990.0609.01.Currently not on view
Description
This is the power adapter received with a Texas Instruments programmable handheld electronic calculator. For the calculator, see 1990.0609.01.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1977
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1990.0609.01.2
catalog number
1990.0609.01.2
accession number
1990.0609

Texas Instruments 1250 Handheld Electronic Calculator

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

Handheld Electronic Calculator Prototype - Texas Instruments Cal Tech

This prototype handheld electronic calculator was built in the Semiconductor Research and Development Laboratory at Texas Instruments in Dallas, Texas, by a team led by Jack Kilby (1923–2005), co-inventor of the integrated circuit.
Description
This prototype handheld electronic calculator was built in the Semiconductor Research and Development Laboratory at Texas Instruments in Dallas, Texas, by a team led by Jack Kilby (1923–2005), co-inventor of the integrated circuit. By the mid-1960s, TI was building microchips for industrial and military applications. The company president, Pat Haggerty, sought a consumer product that would use chips, just as earlier TI transistors had found wide use in transistor radios. Haggerty proposed a variety of possible products, and Kilby and his colleagues settled on making a small electronic calculator. TI had given an earlier development program the code name Project MIT. The calculator work, also confidential, was dubbed Project Cal Tech.
Machines that performed basic arithmetic had sold from the mid-19th century, for use in business and government. Desktop electronic calculators with vacuum tubes sold from 1961, and with transistors from 1964. Kilby envisioned something much smaller that would be roughly the size of a book. This required a smaller keyboard, a new form of display, a portable power supply, and a new memory and central processor. Kilby assigned design of the keyboard to James Van Tassel, and gave work on the memory and processor to Jerry Merryman. He took responsibility for the output and power supply himself.
By September 1967 Kilby, Merryman, and Van Tassel had made enough progress to apply for a patent. The submitted a revised patent in May 1971 and a further revision in December 1972. This final application received U.S. Patent No. 3,819,921 on June 25, 1974.
The prototype resembles the “miniature electronic calculator” shown in the patent drawings. It has a metal case painted black and an array of seventeen keys and a zero bar. In addition to nine digit keys, there are keys for a decimal point, four arithmetic functions, clear (C), error (E), and print (P). The on/off switch is at the back right and a thermal printer with a thin strip of paper at the back left. The power supply plugs into the back of the calculator and into the wall.
An inscription on the front of the calculator reads: THE FIRST CAL TECH (/) PRESENTED TO P. E. HAGGERTY (/) MARCH 29, 1967.
Depressing a button on the front edge of the machine releases the cover and reveals an intricate “integrated circuit array” (to use the terminology of the patent description) and three chips. The array contained four integrated circuits, each the size of a wafer usually made with several chips on it.
Further refinement of the Cal Tech led to the commercial Pocketronic calculator, introduced by Canon in Japan in 1970 and in the United States in 1971. Texas Instruments began selling calculators under its own name in 1972.
References:
Kathy B. Hamrick, “The History of the Hand-Held Electronic Calculator,” American Mathematical Monthly, 102, October 1996, pp. 633–639.
Jack Kilby, Oral History with Arthur L. Norberg, June 21, 1984, Charles Babbage Institute, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota. A transcript is available online. Accessed June 18, 2015.
T. R. Reid, The Chip: How Two Americans Invented the Microchip and Launched a Revolution, New York: Simon & Schuster, 1985.
Jeffrey Zygmont, Microchip: An Idea, Its Genesis, and the Revolution It Created, Cambridge, MA: Perseus Publishing, 2003.
date made
1967
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
CI.336000
catalog number
336000
accession number
319050

Texas Instruments TI-82 Handheld Electronic Calculator

This is an example of an early graphing calculator sold by Texas Instruments. The TI-82 was introduced in 1993, as an improvement on the TI-81. The handheld electronic calculator has a gray plastic case with a sliding cover that can also serve as a stand.
Description
This is an example of an early graphing calculator sold by Texas Instruments. The TI-82 was introduced in 1993, as an improvement on the TI-81. The handheld electronic calculator has a gray plastic case with a sliding cover that can also serve as a stand. It has an array of forty-one rectangular plastic keys, many of which can take on three meanings. These include a wide number of arithmetic, trigonometric, statistical, algebraic, and analytic functions. Letters of the alphabet also can be represented. The calculator also has four arrow keys, plus a row of five keys immediately under the display that relate to graphing. Four of these also can take on two meanings. In addition to performing a wide range of calculations, the calculator could display eight lines of text sixteen characters long or graph ten rectangular or six parametric or polar functions simultaneously. It also could list tables and calculate derivatives and integrals of functions.
A mark above the display reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS TI-82. A cable (not present in this example) allowed sharing data with another TI-82.
The back of the calculator has a compartment at the bottom that holds four AAA batteries as well as a small CR1616 or CR1620 battery (the compartment cover is missing on this example). A mark above the battery compartment reads in part: TEXAS (/) INSTRUMENTS (/) 30009182 I-0495Q (/) MADE IN TAIWAN R.O.C. Further text on the back of the calculator indicates that the design was copyrighted in 1991.
This TI-82 was used by mathematician Florence Fasanelli in workshops for teachers and in classes.
References:
Accession file.
[Advertisement]. Washington Post, August 7, 1994, p. AE19. TI-82 calculator, list price of $125.00, on sale for $99.99.
[Advertisement]. Washington Post, September 6, 1995, p. A26. TI-82 calculator, list price of $125.00, on sale for $79.99.
[Advertisement]. Washington Post, August 17, 1997, p. N6. TI-82 calculator, list price of $125.00, on sale for $79.99.
[Advertisement]. Washington Post, August 23, 1998, p. AE11. TI-82 calculator $79.99 after $10 price break.
Online Datamath Museum, accessed June 15, 2015.
Texas Instruments, TI-82 Graphing Calculator Guidebook, 1993, 2000, 2001. Accessed online June 15, 2015.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1995
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
2014.0101.01
accession number
2014.0101
catalog number
2014.0101.01

Texas Instruments TI-89 Titanium Handheld Electronic Calculator

This symbolic graphing calculator, sold by Texas Instruments, was introduced in 2004 as an improved version of the TI-89. The handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case with a sliding cover that can also serve as a stand, and a silver plastic keyboard.
Description
This symbolic graphing calculator, sold by Texas Instruments, was introduced in 2004 as an improved version of the TI-89. The handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case with a sliding cover that can also serve as a stand, and a silver plastic keyboard. It has an array of forty-one plastic keys of diverse shapes, many of which can take on three meanings. These include a wide number of arithmetic, trigonometric, statistical, algebraic, and analytic functions. Letters of the alphabet also can be represented. The calculator also has three arrow keys, plus a row of five keys immediately under the display that relate to graphing, tables, and preprogrammed functions. In addition to performing a wide range of calculations, the calculator could display text or icons. It also could display two-dimensional graphs of rectangular, parametric or polar functions simultaneously, either overlapping or on a split screen. Three-dimensional functions also could be shown. It also could list tables and calculate and display derivatives and integrals of functions.
A mark above the display reads: TI-89 Titanium (/) TEXAS INSTRUMENTS TI-89. A cable allowed sharing data with other instruments.
A mark toward the top of the back of the calculator reads: 2035034432 S-0604A. A compartment below this holds four AAA batteries as well as a small 303 CR or SR44SW backup battery. A mark inside the battery compartment reads in part: MADE IN CHINA. Further text indicates that the design was copyrighted in 2004.
Included with the calculator are USB and link cables, a manual, a CD with instructions, and two advertising sheets.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
2004
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
2006.0214.01
catalog number
2006.0214.01
accession number
2006.0214

Texas Instruments TI-2500B (Datamath) Handheld Electronic Calculator

This is an example of an early handheld electronic calculator marketed by Texas Instruments under its own name. The 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 an early handheld electronic calculator marketed by Texas Instruments under its own name. The 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.
The back of the calculator has a compartment for storing either three rechargeable nickel-cadmium batteries or four AA sized non-rechargeable batteries. According to Flamm, it is the presence of this compartment that distinguishes the TI-2500 from the TI-2500B.
A sticker on the compartment cover reads: TI-2500B electronic calculator. It also reads in part: Datamath (/) electronic calculator (/) A Product of Texas Instruments Incorporated. It also reads in part: Serial Number (/) 2500B 564926. The sticker indicates that the calculator had a built-in battery that gave four to six hours of portable operation and could be fully recharged in ten hours using an AC9130 adapter/charger.
Unscrewing three long screws on the back of the case does not reveal the chips.
This modification of the TI-2500 was introduced in 1974 and discontinued the same year.
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
1974
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.190
accession number
1986.0988
catalog number
1986.0988.190

Texas Instruments Programmable 57 Handheld Electronic Calculator

This scientific calculator, introduced in 1977, is a less expensive version of the Texas Instruments programmable 58 and programmable 59 calculators. Programming is done entirely with number and function keys.
Description
This scientific calculator, introduced in 1977, is a less expensive version of the Texas Instruments programmable 58 and programmable 59 calculators. Programming is done entirely with number and function keys. A handheld electronic calculator, 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, a change sign key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a clear entry key, and clear key, the calculator has twenty-one further keys. Many keys (including some of the keys already specified) take on a dual function if the "2nd" key is pushed. This second function is indicated on the keyboard above the key.
Text above the keys reads: TI Programmable 57. Behind the keyboard is an on/off switch. Text left of this reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. Behind the keyboard is an LED display that shows eight-digit positive and negative numbers and two-digit positive and negative exponents. The calculator has a jack for a recharger/adapter along the right edge. Text on the top of the back reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator (/) SERIAL NO. (/) 398411 ATA3578 (/) ASSEMBLED IN USA. Below this is a battery compartment. A sticker on the battery pack reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS BATTERY PACK BP-7.
The object fits in a black plastic zippered case with a belt loop.
References:
“Power of Its Pocket Calculators Increased by Texas Instruments,” New York Times, May 25, 1977, p. 89. Suggested list price of new Programmable 57 to be $79.95.
[Advertisement], Boston Globe, November 13, 1977, p. 71. TI Programmable 57 actually for sale at a price of $57.95.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, December 10, 1977, p. E3. Programmable 57 in stock, holiday sale price $59.95.
[Advertisement], Boston Globe, September 7, 1978; p. 40. Regular price of TI Programmable 57 is $49.97, sale price $45.97, with $5 manufacturer’s rebate $39.97.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, September 27, 1980, p. C14. TI programmable 57 on sale for $54.95.
[Advertisement], New York Times, November 7, 1982 p. 64. TI Programmable 57 selling for $32.95.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1978
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1987.0435.02
accession number
1987.0435
catalog number
1987.0435.02

Texas Instruments Programmable 58 C Handheld Electronic Calculator

This programmable scientific calculator, introduced in 1979, is a successor to the TI Programmable 58 that boasts constant memory (programs could be retained when the calculator was turned off).
Description
This programmable scientific calculator, introduced in 1979, is a successor to the TI Programmable 58 that boasts constant memory (programs could be retained when the calculator was turned off). 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 keys and stored in one of ten locations (denoted by the letters A through E and A’ through E’).
A mark below the keyboard reads: TI Programmable 58C (/) Solid State Software (/) Constant Memory. Behind the keyboard is a white space that would hold a paper label card describing a program on a module (the module itself is stored in the back of the calculator). 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 on the right side.
A mark on the back of the calculator reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator (/) SERIAL NO. (/) 1289812 ATA4879 (/) ASSEMBLED IN USA. 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-.
Compare 1987.0435.03 (TI Programmable 58) and 2007.0179.01. (TI Programmable 58C).
References:
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, May 26, 1979, p. D7. Advertises new TI programmable 58C as “retaining data or program information even when the calculator is turned off.” Taking orders for calculator at a price of $109.95.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, July 7, 1979, p. C7. TI 58C now in stock, price $109.95.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, November 9, 1979, p. E8. TI 58C now on sale for $94.95. Programming libraries, regularly $30 each, $25 each if purchased in pairs.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, September 27, 1980, p. OC_C14. TI Programmable 58C on sale for $112.95.
[Advertisement], New York Times, January 8, 1984, p. 43. TI 58C on sale for $149.95 – includes printer.
Texas Instruments, TI Programmable 58/59 Master Library. . ., (1977). A copy of this is 1990.3166.02.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1979
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1987.0435.04
catalog number
1987.0435.04
accession number
1987.0435

Texas Instruments SR-10 Handheld Electronic Calculator

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

Texas Instruments SR-51 Handheld Electronic Calculator

This handheld electronic scientific calculator has a black plastic case with an array of forty small rectangular plastic keys. The white digit keys, decimal point key, and change sign key have only one meaning. The orange total key also has only one meaning.
Description
This handheld electronic scientific calculator has a black plastic case with an array of forty small rectangular plastic keys. The white digit keys, decimal point key, and change sign key have only one meaning. The orange total key also has only one meaning. Pushing the gold “2nd” key changes the function of the other keys from what is shown on the key to the “dual function” indicated above it on the keyboard. The device calculated values of a wide range of arithmetic, statistical, logarithmic, trigonometric, hyperbolic trigonometric, and inverse trigonometric functions using the gold, brown, and gray keys. It also has limited memory.
Text above the keys reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS SR-51. Behind the keyboard is a switch that may be set at R (radians) or D (degrees). Next to it is an on/off switch. Behind the keyboard is an LED display that shows ten-digit positive and negative numbers and two-digit positive and negative exponents.
The calculator has a jack for a recharger/adapter along the back edge. A sticker on the back gives codes entered to convert from common measures to metric measures. It reads in part: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) super slide rule calculator (/) SR-51. It also gives the serial number SR51 0048134. Above the sticker is a compartment for a battery pack.
Unscrewing three screws on the back reveals the workings of the calculator. It has four chips, two relatively large. One of the large ones is marked: TMC0523NL (/) ΔE7501-5. This is a TMC0523 chip, manufactured in early 1975. The other is marked: TMC0501NL (/) ΔD7503-6. This is a TMC0501 chip, manufactured the same year.
The calculator comes in a black plastic, zippered case with belt loop.
References:
[Advertisement], Boston Globe, February 2, 1975, p. 54. Texas Instruments “super slide-rule calculator” selling for $224.95.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, February 22, 1975, p. E4. Give price of $225.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, March 11, 1975, p. A4. Give price of $199.95.
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 154. They date the SR-51 calculator to about 1975.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1975
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.357
catalog number
1986.0988.357
accession number
1986.0988

Texas Instruments SR-16 Handheld Electronic Calculator

This is an example of an early scientific calculator marketed by Texas Instruments. Extending the capabilities of its SR-10 and SR-11 “slide rule” calculators, TI introduced it in 1974.
Description
This is an example of an early scientific calculator marketed by Texas Instruments. Extending the capabilities of its SR-10 and SR-11 “slide rule” calculators, TI introduced it in 1974. The handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case with an array of thirty-five 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 entry key and a clear key, the calculator has twelve additional function keys. These are for reciprocals, squares, square roots, natural logs, exponents, logs to base ten, powers of 10, powers, storage, recall, summation, and entering exponents. Text on the keyboard, below the keys and two the left, reads: SR-16. Behind the keyboard is a twelve-digit LED display. A mark behind the display reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. The on/off switch is right and slightly above this mark.
The back edge of the calculator has a jack for a recharger/adapter. A small sticker next to it reads: INSPECTED (/) BY (/) AA-06. A sticker on the back gives extensive instructions. It also gives the serial number SR-16 105736.
Unscrewing screws near the top and bottom of the back reveals the workings of the calculator. It has a total of three chips. The largest of these is marked TMS1001NL (/) AΔ7519. This is a TMS1001 chip, manufactured in mid-1975. Also in the case is space for three fast-charge nickel-cadmium batteries.
The calculator comes in a black plastic zippered case with belt hook and clip.
References:
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, February 22, 1975, p. E4. Give price of $89.95.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, March 11, 1975, p. A4. Give price of $84.95.
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 153. They give a 1974 price of $99.99.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1975
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.349
catalog number
1986.0988.349
accession number
1986.0988

Texas Instruments Citation Handheld Electronic Calculator

This is one of a series of handheld electronic calculators manufactured by Texas Instruments and distributed by Western Auto. It has a black plastic case, a wood-textured plastic keyboard, and an array of twenty-four rectangular black keys.
Description
This is one of a series of handheld electronic calculators manufactured by Texas Instruments and distributed by Western Auto. It has a black plastic case, a wood-textured plastic keyboard, and an array of twenty-four rectangular black 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: W (/) A Citation. A socket for a battery adapter is on the right edge.
The back has a compartment for a battery at the center. Text 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. 3378 (/) ASSEMBLED IN EL SALVADOR. 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 1986.0988.194. This calculator closely resembles the Texas Instruments 1025 in general appearance and the selection of keys. The keyboard finish is different.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1977
distributor
Western Auto Supply Company
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.191
accession number
1986.0988
catalog number
1986.0988.191

Texas Instruments TI-2500 (Datamath) Handheld Electronic Calculator

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

Texas Instruments TI-1000 Handheld Electronic Calculator

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

Texas Instruments TI-92 Handheld Electronic Calculator

This programmable, handheld, symbolic graphing electronic calculator has a black plastic case and cover. An alphabetic (qwerty) keyboard is on the bottom left, and a numeric keyboard like that of an ordinary electronic calculator is on the right.
Description
This programmable, handheld, symbolic graphing electronic calculator has a black plastic case and cover. An alphabetic (qwerty) keyboard is on the bottom left, and a numeric keyboard like that of an ordinary electronic calculator is on the right. The display is above the alphabetic keyboard and function keys are on both sides of it. These function keys operate a toolbar on the screen that brings up pull-down menus on the screen. For example, pushing the F2 function key brings up such “algebra” commands as solve, factor, expand, zeroes, approximation, common denominator, proper fraction, trigonometry, complex, and extract. It is possible to split the display, showing, for example, functions on one side and their graphs on the other.
There is a connection for a cord, but no cord.
A mark on the back reads: TEXAS (/) INSTRUMENTS (/) V0116515 I-0995 (/) MADE IN TAIWAN R.O.C. Moving a lever on the top edge makes it possible to change the four AA batteries. There is also a backup battery of style CR2032.
The TI-92 incorporated the symbolic algebra software DERIVE and the geometry package CABRI.
This TI-92 was owned by Harvard University mathematician Andrew Gleason.
References:
“What’s in a Name?,” Washington Post, July 10, 1995, p. 17. New TI-92 at the border between a calculator and a computer. Will sell for about $200. “The slide rule looks more ancient than ever.”
[Advertisement], New York Times, July 25, 1996, p. A19. TI-92 selling for $179.99.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, August 30, 1998, p. AH6. TI-92 selling for $199.99.
John Berry, “TEXAS TI-92, the Calculator with Symbolic Algebra and Cabri,” Mathematics in School, 25 #1, January 1996, pp. 44–47.
Sally Fischbeck, “TI-92 Graphing Calculator,” College Mathematics Journal, 27 #3, May, 1996, pp. 224–230. This article gives a recommended retail price for the calculator of $250.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1995
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
2012.0063.05
accession number
2012.0063
catalog number
2012.0063.05

Texas Instruments Model PC-100C Print-Security Cradle

This device, used with a TI Programmable 58 or 59 calculator, performed a variety of functions.
Description
This device, used with a TI Programmable 58 or 59 calculator, performed a variety of functions. The printer could show the contents of the display at any time, list programs in program memory and the contents of data registers, print results from a running program, print each step of calculator operations, list program labels and location, print alphanumeric messages, and plot data. The PC-100C also served as a security cradle, providing a secure place to leave the calculator and also allowing recharging of the calculator while the printer was in use.
The thermal printer, with its 2 ½ inch (6.4 cm.) wide tape, is on the left; the mounting bracket for the calculator is on the right. In front is a storage compartment for the battery pack from the calculator and for the cover of the mounting bracket. A lock (with key) is in the middle.
A sticker on the bottom of the object reads in part: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) MODEL PC-100C (/) PRINT/SECURITY CRADLE. Text below this reads: SERIAL NO. 293181 ATA2378. The object has a light gray plastic cover. The printer came with two extra paper tapes, which have museum numbers 1990.0609.02.1 and 1990.0609.02.2. It was used with calculator 1990.0609.01.
For examples of printouts from this printer, see 1990.3166.04. An instruction manual stored with these programs indicates that the printer was purchased September 19, 1979 for $249.95.
Compare to the PC-100A printer that is part of 2007.0179.02.
Reference:
[Advertisement], New York Times, November 7, 1982, p. 64. TI Programmable 59 selling for $169.95. Rebate of $20 from manufacturer brings price down to $149.95. PC-100C printer also sells for $149.95.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1978
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1990.0609.02
catalog number
1990.0609.02
accession number
1990.0609

Texas Instruments Programmable 59 Handheld Electronic Calculator, Case

This is the case for a Texas Instruments programmable handheld electronic calculator. For the calculator, see 1990.0609.01.Currently not on view
Description
This is the case for a Texas Instruments programmable handheld electronic calculator. For the calculator, see 1990.0609.01.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1977
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1990.0609.01.1
catalog number
1990.0609.01.1
accession number
1990.0609

Texas Instruments MBA Handheld Electronic Calculator

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

Texas Instruments SR-10 Handheld Electronic Calculator

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 on the keyboard, above the keys and to the left, reads: SR-10. Behind the keyboard is a twelve-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 794630. A small round sticker above the large sticker reads: INSPECTED (/) BY L-01.
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 TMS0120NC (/) C7421. This is a TMS0120 chip, manufactured in mid-1974. 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.
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 in 1973) and the third (introduced in 1975) did. This is an example of the second version.
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.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1974
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.351
catalog number
1986.0988.351
accession number
1986.0988

Texas Instruments Programmable 58/59 Leisure Library, Manual

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

Texas Instruments SR-11 Handheld Electronic Calculator

This is an example of an early scientific calculator marketed by Texas Instruments. Building on the success of the SR-10, TI introduced it in 1973.
Description
This is an example of an early scientific calculator marketed by Texas Instruments. Building on the success of the SR-10, TI introduced it in 1973. The handheld electronic calculator has a black- and ivory-colored plastic case with an array of twenty-four small rectangular plastic keys. In addition to ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a change sign key, a total key, and four arithmetic function keys, the calculator has a reciprocal key, a square key, a square root key, a pi key, an enter exponent key, a clear key, and a clear display key. Text on the keyboard, just above the keys and two the left, reads: SR-11. A constant switch is to the right of this. Behind the keyboard is a twelve-digit LED display. A mark behind the display reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. The on/off switch is right and slightly above this mark.
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 SR-11 277378. A small sticker above this reads: INSPECTED (/) BY (/) J-01.
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 TMS0602NC (/) 7427. This is a TMS0602 chip, manufactured in mid-1974. Also in the case is space for three AA nickel-cadmium batteries.
The calculator comes in a black plastic zippered case.
Texas Instruments described the SR-11 as an “electronic slide rule calculator,” hence the “SR” in the name. Ball & Flamm indicate that the calculator sold for $66.50 in 1974.
References:
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 153.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1973-1974
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.345
catalog number
1986.0988.345
accession number
1986.0988

Texas Instruments TI-1025 Handheld Electronic Calculator

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

Texas Instruments Money Manager Handheld Electronic Calculator

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

Texas Instruments Programmable 58 Handheld Electronic Calculator

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

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