Computers & Business Machines

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

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

This handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case and thirty-five rectangular plastic keys.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case and thirty-five rectangular plastic keys. The four lower rows of keys are similar to those found on many calculators, with ten digit keys, a change sign key, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, three memory keys, and a total key. The next row up on the scientific calculator contains keys for various forms of exponents and logarithms, as well as a pi key. The next row up (just below the top row of keys) contains a key for converting from degrees, minutes, and seconds to decimal degrees, as well as keys for trigonometric and inverse trigonometric functions. The top row of keys includes keys for powers, reciprocals, square roots, clear entry, and clear. A mark above the keyboard reads: SHARP.
Behind the keyboard is a green fluorescent display that shows the result, up to a six-digit mantissa and a two-digit exponent (as a power of ten). Text above the display reads: SHARP ELSI MATE (/) EL-500. A jack for a power adapter is along the back edge. The on/off switch is on the left side.
The back of the calculator has a compartment for two slim batteries. A sticker inside it reads: 72406257.Text below this reads in part: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-500. It also reads in part: SHARP CORPORATION (/) MADE IN JAPAN BM.
References:
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, March 27, 1977, p. X1. On sale for $14.95
[Advertisement], Washington Post, January 20, 1978, p. A23. Calculator selling for $14.77.
A copy for the manual for this calculator, without the cover, is online at wass.net/manuals, accessed October 27, 2014.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1977-1978
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.138
catalog number
1986.0988.138
accession number
1986.0988
In the second half of the 1970s, taking advantage of the introduction of liquid crystal displays, manufacturers of handheld electronic calculators designed and built ever-thinner products. In this Sharp calculator the usual keys have been replaced by a single thin membrane.
Description
In the second half of the 1970s, taking advantage of the introduction of liquid crystal displays, manufacturers of handheld electronic calculators designed and built ever-thinner products. In this Sharp calculator the usual keys have been replaced by a single thin membrane. This reduces the thickness of the calculator itself to about .16 cm (less than 1/8”). Pushing numbers on such a calculator produces no tactile sensation. To give users a sense that they indeed had entered information, the calculator could be set so that a tone sounded whenever a digit or function was entered. Pushing the section of the membrane with a musical note on it (called the sensor key) activated this part of the calculator.
The calculator has a total of twenty-six “keys” In addition to the sensor key, these include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, and three memory keys. Behind these are a % key, and a clear entry key, as well as a STR key for storing a number in the memory and a COMP key for computing conversions by multiplying the stored value by the number shown on the display. Behind these are keys for off and for on/clear. Text next to these last two keys reads: ELSI MATE (/) EL-8152 (/) STORAGE COMPUTER. Behind this is the eight-digit LCD display. Text behind this reads: SHARP.
Text on the back of the calculator reads: SHARP (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-8152. It also reads: SHARP CORPORATION MADE IN JAPAN BM. The most recent U.S. patent number listed is 3976994, a patent issued in 1976 and assigned to Sharp. A label below this reads: 07004741. The calculator ran on two squat cylindrical silver oxide batteries.
The calculator has a dark blue cloth carrying case. Text on the front of it reads: SHARP. This case, in turn, fits into a cardboard box with a small pamphlet. The cover of the manual reads: SHARP COMPET ELSI MATE (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-8152 (/) INSTRUCTION MANUAL. Also included loose in the manual is a warning not to carry the calculator in a back pocket. The sleeve for the box reads: SHARP (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-8152 A.
An example of the Sharp EL-8152 was shown in a 1994 exhibition on modern Japanese design, held at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Sharp membrane calculators in the collections include 1997.0032.01 (Sharp EL-8152 or EL-8152A), 1987.0435.13 (Sharp EL-8130A), and 1986.0988.316 (Sharp EL-8145).
References:
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, December 23, 1979, p. B1. Calculator advertised (EL-8152) said to be 1/16” thick, selling for $39.95.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, May 1, 1980, p. 17. This advertisement lists the Sharp EL-8152 calculator (not the EL-8152 A) as on sale for $32.97.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, September 4, 1980, p. B13. Sharp EL-8152 (not EL-8152 A) advertised as on sale for $39.99.
Kathryn B. Hiesinger and Felice Fischer, Japanese Design: A Survey Since 1950, Philadelphia; Philadelphia Museum of Art, 1994, p. 123.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1979-1980
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1997.0032.01
catalog number
1997.0032.01
accession number
1997.0032
As early as 1977 Sharp Corporation had combined the functions of a handheld electronic calculator, a clock telling time worldwide, and a stop watch.
Description
As early as 1977 Sharp Corporation had combined the functions of a handheld electronic calculator, a clock telling time worldwide, and a stop watch. In the late 1980s, it began to sell more elaborate “electronic organizers.” This example had a built-in calendar, schedule, listing for telephone numbers, memo pad, world clock, local clock, and calculator. It also was possible to purchase additional “IC cards” which expanded the memory, offered language translation, and provided a dictionary and thesaurus. The device also could be linked to a printer or a microcomputer.
The organizer has a black plastic case that opens to reveal a keyboard on the right and a display with a space for additional cards on the left. A mark at the center of the left side reads: SHARP OZ-7200 (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR WIZARD. A mark above the display reads: 64KB. A mark on the bottom reads: OZ-7200 SHARP CORPORATION (/) MADE IN JAPAN (/) Lic. U.S. Pat. 4117542. This patent, filed by Judah Klausner and Robert Hotto, both of New York, New York, was granted in 1978. The serial number of this calculator is: 9703190X.
Inside the cardboard box holding the calculator is also an operation manual. It has a copyright date of 1989.
This example was purchased by the Information Age exhibition at the National Museum of American History in April 1990. It was not used. This product was a successor to the Sharp PA-7000 organizer, first sold in 1987.
References:
[Advertisement], New York Times, May 2, 1990, p. A2. Sharp OZ-7200 selling for $279.98.
[Advertisement}, Chicago Tribune, July 10, 1991, p. D19. Sharp OZ-7200 on sale for $159.00.
Kathryn B. Hiesinger and Felice Fischer, Japanese Design: A Survey Since 1950, Philadelphia; Philadelphia Museum of Art, 1994, p. 176.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1990
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1991.0081.01
catalog number
1991.0081.01
accession number
1991.0081
This handheld electronic calculator has a black and white plastic case and an array of twenty rounded rectangular plastic keys.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a black and white plastic case and an array of twenty rounded rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a % key, four arithmetic function keys, a clear key, a clear entry key, a square root key, and a total key. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit purple LED display that seems to have a ninth character space. The on/off switch is behind the display on the right. A tag left of this reads: SHARP ELSI MATE (/) EL-104.
At the top of the back is a compartment for a nine-volt battery. Text below this reads: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-104. Further text reads: SHARP CORPORATION (/) MADE IN JAPAN BM. A paper sticker below the mark gives a list of U.S., Canadian, Swedish and Australian patents protecting the device. The latest American patent is 3621219, issued in 1971 and initially assigned to Hayakawa.
The calculator has a leather or imitation leather carrying case with a metal snap and plastic edging. This case also has a hook so that it could be worn over a belt.
Compare 1986.0988.133 (Sharp Elsimate EL-206).
References:
The online MyCalc database dates this calculator to about 1976. The online Calculator.org database dates it to 1976. No advertisements found.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1976
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.315
catalog number
1986.0988.315
accession number
1986.0988
In the second half of the 1970s, taking advantage of the introduction of liquid crystal displays, manufacturers of handheld electronic calculators designed and built ever-thinner products.
Description
In the second half of the 1970s, taking advantage of the introduction of liquid crystal displays, manufacturers of handheld electronic calculators designed and built ever-thinner products. This is an early example of a Sharp calculator in which the usual keys had been replaced by a single thin plastic membrane. This reduces the thickness of the calculator itself to about .5 cm (about 1/4”). Pushing numbers on such a calculator produces no tactile sensation. To give users a sense that they indeed had entered information, the calculator could be set so that a tone sounded whenever a digit or function was entered. Pushing the section of the membrane with a musical note on it (called the sensor key) activated this part of the calculator. The calculator has a total of twenty-two “keys” In addition to the sensor key, these include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, four memory keys, a square root key, a % key, and a clear entry key. Behind these are keys for off and on/clear. Text next to these two keys reads: SHARP (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) ELSI MATE EL-8130A. Behind this is the eight-digit LCD display.
Text on the back of the calculator reads: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR EL-8130A. It also reads: NO. 87547779 BM (/) SHARP CORPORATION MADE IN JAPAN. The most recent U.S. patent number listed is 3976994, a patent issued in 1976 and assigned to Sharp.
The calculator has a black leather case. Text on the front of it reads: SHARP (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR.
Sharp membrane calculators in the collections include 1997.0032.01 (Sharp EL-8152 or EL-8152A), 1987.0435.13 (Sharp EL-8130A), and 1986.0988.316 (Sharp EL-8145).
Reference:
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, December 8, 1977, p. WS6. New model EL-8130 calculator selling for $29.95 (no advertisement found for EL-8130A).
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1977-1978
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1987.0435.13
catalog number
1987.0435.13
accession number
1987.0435
This thin handheld electronic calculator has a metal case and twenty-two plastic, rounded square keys.
Description
This thin handheld electronic calculator has a metal case and twenty-two plastic, rounded square keys. These include ten digit keys, a change sign key, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, a square root key, a clear/clear entry key, a % key, two memory keys, and a total key. Pushing up a button at the top right of the keyboard unlatches the cover on the eight-digit LCD display. A mark at the base of the calculator reads: SHARP ELSI MATE (/) EL-8110. A jack for a power adapter is along the front edge of the calculator.
A compartment for two squat cylindrical batteries is at the base of the back of the calculator. A mark at the top reads in part: SHARP (/) RATING: 2.4V – (DC) 0.025W (/) (RECHARGEABLE BATTERY EA-108) (/) OR 3V – (DC) 0.025W (AC ADAPTOR/CHARGER EA-10C) (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR EL-8110 (/) NO. 67276478 BM (/) SHARP CORPORATION MADE IN JAPAN
References:
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, March 16, 1976, p. D2. Gives price of $39.95. A similar thin model, the Sharp EL-8010, had no memory, %, or square root keys. It sold for $29.95.
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, September 22, 1976, p. D13. Here the EL-8110 is described as the “’Thin Man’ pocket secretary.” The price listed is $39.95.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1976
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.139
catalog number
1986.0988.139
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld electronic calculator was advertised in the newspaper the Washington Post as “Sharp’s Super Slim Super Scientist.” The scientific calculator has a metal case and thirty-five rectangular plastic keys.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator was advertised in the newspaper the Washington Post as “Sharp’s Super Slim Super Scientist.” The scientific calculator has a metal case and thirty-five rectangular plastic keys. The four lower rows of keys are similar to those found on many calculators, with ten digit keys, a change sign key, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, three memory keys, and a total key. The next row up contains keys for various forms of exponents and logarithms, and an exchange key. The next row up (just below the top row of keys) contains a key for converting from degrees, minutes, and seconds to decimal degrees, as well as keys for trigonometric functions. The top row of keys includes an F key for switching the functions of the function keys, and keys for powers, square roots, clear entry, and clear. Pressing the function key converts the action of many of the keys in the top three rows. The memory keys also become keys for various statistical functions.
Above the keyboard are the on/off switch, and a switch for setting angular measure at degrees, radians, or grads. Behind this is an eight-digit LCD display, which can show a mantissa of six digits and a two-digit exponent.
At the base of the back of the calculator is a compartment for two squat cylindrical silver oxide batteries. Text above these reads in part: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-5805. It also reads: NO. 70027227 (/) SHARP CORPORATION (/) MADE IN JAPAN BM.
The calculator has a brown plastic wallet. A mark on the front of it reads: SHARP (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR.
References:
[Advertisement], Washington Post, August 26, 1977, p. A6. Calculator selling for $29.95. The same ad mentions the Sharp EL-500 selling for $16.95.
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, June 4, 1978, p. I18. Advertisement describes EL-5805, with a total of eight digits in the display (six mantissa, two exponents), selling for $29.95. It also mentions the EL-5806, with a total of ten digits in the display (eight mantissa, two exponents), selling for $34.95.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1977-1978
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.093
catalog number
1986.0988.093
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld electronic calculator has some but not all of the functions of a scientific calculator. It has a metal and plastic case with twenty rounded square keys and ten rounded rectangular keys, for a total of thirty plastic keys.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has some but not all of the functions of a scientific calculator. It has a metal and plastic case with twenty rounded square keys and ten rounded rectangular keys, for a total of thirty plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, three memory keys, and a change sign key. Keys in the top row are for powers, squares, inverses, pi, clear/clear entry, “MU Δ%,” “% 5/4,” %, square roots, and dollars. To the right of the keyboard is a switch that can be set at the values 5/4, A, 0, 2, 4, and F. This may relate to the position of the decimal point.
Above the keys is an eight-digit green fluorescent display. A mark above it reads: SHARP ELSI MATE (/) EL-8118 (/) Electronic Calculator. To the right is an on/off switch. A jack for a power adapter is along the back edge.
The back of the calculator has a compartment at the top that holds two AA batteries. A mark below this reads: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL – 8118. It also reads: SHARP CORPORATION (/) MADE IN KOREA. Below this is a paper sticker with American, British, Canadian, Swedish, and Australian patent numbers. The largest U.S. patent number is 3621219.
The calculator has a dark brown leatherette carrying case with a metal snap.
Reference:
[Advertisement], Washington Post, January 13, 1977, p. A19. The Sharp 8118 calculator is listed as regularly priced at $19.95, on sale for $17.95.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1976
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.091
catalog number
1986.0988.091
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld electronic calculator has a brown and white plastic case with a gold-colored metal inset. It has an array of twenty-two rounded square keys.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a brown and white plastic case with a gold-colored metal inset. It has an array of twenty-two rounded square keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a % key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, three memory keys, a square root key, and a clear/clear entry key. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit green fluorescent display. A mark behind this reads: SHARP ELSI MATE (/) EL-8117K. An on/off button is on the left side and a jack for a power adapter along the back edge.
At the top of the back of the calculator is a compartment for two AA batteries. A sticker on the inside of this compartment reads: 78104423. Text near the center of the back reads: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-8117K. Further text reads: SHARP CORPORATION (/) MADE IN KOREA. A sticker below this lists patent numbers assigned by the U.S., U.K., Australia, Canada, Sweden, and Italy. The most recent U.S. patent listed has number 3902169. It was issued in 1975 and assigned to Sharp.
The calculator is in a cardboard box with a cardboard sleeve that slides over it to serve as a cover. Also in the box are a plastic carrying case and a sheet of instructions.
References:
The calculator.org website, accessed October 22, 2014, dates this calculator to 1977. This is also the date given by the computinghistory.org.uk website.
[Advertisement], North Hills [Pennsylvania] News-Record, March 21, 1978, p. 7. Advertises calculator as regularly priced at $15.00, on sale for $10.00.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1977-1978
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.092
catalog number
1986.0988.092
accession number
1986.0988
This battery-operated handheld electronic calculator has a white plastic case with twenty-three rectangular gray plastic keys.
Description
This battery-operated handheld electronic calculator has a white plastic case with twenty-three rectangular gray plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a clear key, a clear entry key, three memory keys, a square root key, and a % key. The on/off switch is to the left on the top row of the keyboard. Behind the keys is an eight-digit LCD display. A tag behind this reads: SHARP (/) ELSI-MATE EL-218.
Pushing along the top edge allows one to open the case, revealing a place for a nine-volt battery. A chip beneath the place for the battery reads: LI2071A (/) SHARP IC2 025. A mark on the back of the case reads in part: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-218. Further text reads: NO 1V416574 (/) SHARP CORPORATION (/) MADE IN JAPAN BM.
Reference:
[Advertisement], , September 30, 1981, p. K1. Sharp EL-218 selling for $6.00.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1981
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.134
accession number
1986.0988
catalog number
1986.0988.134
This battery-operated handheld electronic calculator has a black and white plastic case and an array of twenty rectangular plastic keys.
Description
This battery-operated handheld electronic calculator has a black and white plastic case and an array of twenty rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a % key, four arithmetic function keys, a clear/clear entry key, a memory key (for the total), a square root key, and a total key. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit yellow LCD display. The on/off switch is behind the display on the right. A tag left of this reads: SHARP ELSI MATE (/) EL- 206.
At the top of the back is a compartment for a nine volt battery. A sticker inside it reads: 83283314. Text below the compartment reads: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-206. Further text reads: SHARP CORPORATION (/) MADE IN JAPAN BM. Two U.S. patents listed as protecting the device have numbers 3902169 and 3976994. The second patent relates to liquid crystal displays. It was issued in 1977 and assigned to Sharp.
Compare 1986.088.315 (the EL-104). That calculator has an LED display and no memory.
References:
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, September 13, 1978, p. 10Y. The calculator is advertised as regularly priced at $9.95 and on sale for $6.97.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, November 9, 1978, p. R4. Calculator is on sale for $7.99.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, August 22, 1979, p. C3. Calculator is selling for $9.77.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1978-1979
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.133
accession number
1986.0988
catalog number
1986.0988.133
This handheld electronic calculator combined Sharp’s thin calculator design (keys being replaced by a membrane) with an array of scientific functions. The calculator has a metal case.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator combined Sharp’s thin calculator design (keys being replaced by a membrane) with an array of scientific functions. The calculator has a metal case. The membrane is divided into thirty-five rectangular segments, with an additional five round segments across the top row. In addition to the usual digit, arithmetic function, change sign, decimal, and total “keys,” there are eighteen keys which can assume different actions if the “F” key is pressed. These relate to memory, statistical functions, trigonometric and inverse trigonometric functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, square roots and cube roots, and conversion from polar to rectangular coordinates and vice versa. Pressing the sensor key causes a tone to sound whenever a section is pressed. Behind the membrane is an LCD display which shows up to eight digits in a mantissa and two digits in an exponent.
A mark at the base of the calculator reads: SHARP (/) SCIENTIFIC CALCULATOR EL-5808. Text on the back reads: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-5808. It also reads: SER. No. (/) 91001503. It also reads: SHARP CORPORATION (/) MADE IN JAPAN. Two silver oxide batteries are built into the calculator.
The calculator has a black plastic case marked on the outside: SHARP (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR. It includes a warning against carrying the calculator in a back pocket, lest the glass break. The calculator and an instruction manual fit in a cardboard box.
References:
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, October 15, 1978, p. S13X. Calculator advertised as regularly priced at $39.95, on sale for $29.96.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, February 24, 1979, p. F14. Sharp EL-5808 advertised as regularly priced at $39.95, on sale for $29.95.
Sharp, Sharp Compet Scientific Calculator Model EL-5808 Instruction Manual.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1978-1979
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.135
catalog number
1986.0988.135
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld electronic calculator has a blue and white plastic case with twenty-two square keys with rounded corners.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a blue and white plastic case with twenty-two square keys with rounded corners. In addition to ten digit keys, it has a change sign key, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a percentage key, a square root key, a clear/clear entry key and two memory keys. The on/off switch is above the keyboard to the left. A tag beside it reads: SHARP ELSI MATE (/) EL-8114. Behind it is an eight-digit display. A jack for a power adapter is along the back edge. A plastic loop for carrying the calculator extends from the left side.
The bottom of the back of the calculator has a compartment that holds four rechargeable or three non-rechargeable AA batteries. A sticker inside it reads: 51279388. Text further up on the back reads: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-8114. It also reads: SHARP CORPORATION (/) MADE IN JAPAN (/) BM.
A mark scratched on the right edge of the calculator reads: DAVID SHINNEMAN LAKE FOREST (/) ILLINOIS. This calculator belonged to David Shinneman, who used it as a student at Lake Forest High School in Lake Forest, Illinois. Shinneman went on to attend Northern Arizona University from 1980 to 1984, did graduate work in Florida, and pursued a career in city planning.
Compare the Sharp EL-8005S (1986.0988.095).
References:
[Advertisement], Boston Globe, November 23, 1975, p. 48. Sharp EL-8114 on sale for $19.95.
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett Printing, 1997, p. 140. This source also gives $19.95 as the 1975 price for calculator.
The website radaris.com, accessed October 21, 2014.
Personal communication, David Shinneman, October 22, 2014.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1975
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.096
catalog number
1986.0988.096
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld electronic calculator has a black and white plastic case and an array of twenty-five plastic keys. Twenty of these keys are square with rounded corners.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a black and white plastic case and an array of twenty-five plastic keys. Twenty of these keys are square with rounded corners. They include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a % key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, clear and clear entry keys, and a square root key. The other five keys are rectangular memory keys (pushing one of these keys transfers a number into the memory).
Behind the keyboard is a green fluorescent display. Text above the display reads: SHARP EL-8131 SHARP (/) ELSI MATE / ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR. A jack for a power adapter is on the back edge and an on/off switch on the left side.
The back of the calculator has a compartment for two AA batteries. A paper sticker inside this compartment reads: 98397296. A mark below this reads in part: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-8131. It also reads in part: SHARP CORPORATION BM (/) MADE IN KOREA. Also listed on the back is U.S. patent number 3571655. This patent was granted in 1971 and assigned to Sharp.
The calculator has a black leatherette carrying pouch with a metal snap. One side of the carrying pouch has a loop so that it could be worn on a belt.
References:
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, August 14, 1977, p. H31. Sharp EL-8131 advertised as on sale for $12.95.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, November 29, 1978, p. B17. Sharp EL-8131 advertised as selling for $12.95.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1977-1978
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.132
accession number
1986.0988
catalog number
1986.0988.132
This handheld electronic calculator has a brown and tan plastic case and an array of twenty square plastic keys with rounded courners.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a brown and tan plastic case and an array of twenty square plastic keys with rounded courners. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a % key, four arithmetic function keys, a clear/clear entry key, a memory key (for the total), a square root key, and a total key. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit yellow LCD display. The on/off switch is to the left of the display. Text under the display reads: SHARP (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR. A tag at the bottom of the keyboard reads: SHARP ELSI-MATE (/) EL-8034. A jack for a power cord is along the back edge.
At the bottom of the back is a compartment for two AAA batteries. A paper sticker inside this compartment reads: 88055729. Text above the compartment reads: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-8034. Further text reads: SHARP CORPORATION (/) MADE IN KOREA BM. A sticker above this lists patents incorporated in the calculator. The latest of the U.S. patents has number 3902169. It was issued in 1975 and assigned to Sharp.
Compare 1986.0988.133 (Sharp EL-206).
References:
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, July 12, 1978, p. K4. Calculator advertised as selling in a wallet and at a special price of $10.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, August 28, 1978, p. C28. Calculator advertised as regularly priced at $14.95, on sale for $11.97.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1978
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.136
catalog number
1986.0988.136
accession number
1986.0988
This compact instrument combines a handheld electronic calculator, an alarm clock telling time in several time zones, and a stop watch. It has a metal case and lid and an array of twenty-four small rectangular plastic keys.
Description
This compact instrument combines a handheld electronic calculator, an alarm clock telling time in several time zones, and a stop watch. It has a metal case and lid and an array of twenty-four small rectangular plastic keys. Operated as a calculator, it has ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a % key, four arithmetic function keys, a square root key, a clear/clear entry key, three memory keys, a recall key, and an hours/minutes/seconds key. Keys also can be used in “clock” mode to set the location (time zone), time, date, and alarm time, and to turn the alarm on or off. An eight-digit LCD display is behind the keyboard.
Marks printed on the back of the calculator read in part: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) CT 500. The also read: SER NO 71063319 BM (/) PRODUCED BY (/) SHARP CORPORATION JAPAN.
The calculator fits in a plastic case lined with red felt. Text at the base of the front of the case reads: ELSI MATE. Text on the back at the base reads: MADE IN JAPAN.
Reference:
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, June 25, 1978, p. Y17. Sharp CT-500 “world clock” on sale for $67.95.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1978
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.097
catalog number
1986.0988.097
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld electronic calculator has a blue and white plastic case with nineteen square keys with rounded corners. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, a clear entry key and a clear key.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a blue and white plastic case with nineteen square keys with rounded corners. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, a clear entry key and a clear key. Above the keyboard a metal tag reads: SHARP ELSI 8002. Behind this is an eight-digit green fluorescent display. A jack for a power adapter is along the back edge and an on/off switch is along the left side.
At the top of the back is a compartment for three AA batteries. A tag below this reads: SHARP MODEL EL-8002 (/) RATING: 4.5V DC (/) DRY-BATTERY SUM-3 x 3 (/) OR AC ADAPTOR MODEL EA-12A 0.3W (/) NO. 4101559X (/) SHARP ELECTRONICS CORPORATION (/) 10 KEYSTONE PLACE, PARAMUS, N.J.07852 (/) MADE IN JAPAN BM. A tag below this lists U.S., Canadian, Swedish and Australian patents.
References:
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, October 31, 1974, p. sg11. Sharp 8002 calculator advertised as new for 1974-1975. List price $59.95, sale price $34.95.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, January 11, 1975, p. A11. Sharp 8002 on sale for $29.95.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1974-1975
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.094
catalog number
1986.0988.094
accession number
1986.0988
This solar-powered handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case and an array of twenty-five rectangular plastic keys.
Description
This solar-powered handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case and an array of twenty-five rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a % key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, a change sign key, a square root key, a clear entry key, and a clear key (the clear key is missing on this example). The top row of keys also includes four memory keys.
Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit LCD display. Behind it is the solar panel. Text at the top of the front reads: SHARP (/) ELSI MATE EL-345 SOLAR CELL CALCULATOR. Text on the back of the calculator reads: EL-345 BM (/) SHARP CORPORATON MADE IN JAPAN (/) FABRIQUE AU JAPON (/) U.S. Pats. 3902169 & 3976994 (/) 3635.
The calculator fits in a brown plastic wallet. A mark on the cover of the wallet reads: SHARP.
References:
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, October 12, 1983, p. Y10_X. Sharp EL-345 advertised as regularly priced at $9.95, on sale for $5.99.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, September 17, 1985, p. D13. Sharp EL-345 advertised as selling for $5.95.
[Advertisement], The Montreal Gazette, April 6, 1986, p. 21. Advertised as regularly priced at $9.99, on sale for $7.99 (Canadian dollars).
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1983-1986
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.137
catalog number
1986.0988.137
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld electronic calculator has a tan and orange plastic case, a metal keyboard, and nineteen rectangular plastic keys. The keys include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a % key, a memory key, and a clear entry/clear key.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a tan and orange plastic case, a metal keyboard, and nineteen rectangular plastic keys. The keys include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a % key, a memory key, and a clear entry/clear key. The on/off switch is at the left on the top row of keys. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit LCD display.
At the top of the back of the calculator is a compartment for a nine-volt battery. Text below it reads: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-208. Further text reads: NO. 025. The number is on a paper sticker and is difficult to read. Further text reads: SHARP CORPORATION BM (/) MADE IN JAPAN (/) U.S. Pats. 3902169 & 3978994.
The calculator has a dark brown plastic carrying case.
References:
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, December 4, 1980, p. B12. A Sharp EL-208 calculator is on sale for $6.99. The placement of the SHARP label is different in this image than on the example in the collections.
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, March 8, 1981, p. M6. Sharp EL-208 on sale for $6.99. The image in the advertisement is of the model of calculator in the collections.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1980-1981
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.314
catalog number
1986.0988.314
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld electronic calculator has a blue and white plastic case with nineteen square keys with rounded corners. In addition to ten digit keys, it has a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a % key, a clear key and a clear entry key.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a blue and white plastic case with nineteen square keys with rounded corners. In addition to ten digit keys, it has a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a % key, a clear key and a clear entry key. The on/off switch is above the keyboard. Behind it is an eight-digit green fluorescent display. A tag behind this reads: SHARP ELSI MATE (/) EL-8005S. A jack for a power adapter is along the back edge.
The bottom of the back of the calculator has a compartment that holds four AA batteries. A sticker inside it reads: 58034347. Text further up on the back reads: SHARP MODEL EL-8005S (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR. It also reads: SHARP CORPORATION. It also reads: MADE IN KOREA (/) BM.
Compare the Sharp EL-8114 (1986.0988.096).
According to Ball and Flamm, the only difference between the EL-8005 and the EL-8005S was in the color of the case.
References:
[Advertisement], Washington Post, May 1, 1975, p. C14. The Sharp EL-8000 is advertised as selling for $19.95.
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett Printing, 1997, p.139.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1975
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.095
catalog number
1986.0988.095
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld electronic calculator is the first model in a series of scientific calculators sold by Sharp under variations of the designation EL-506 (e.g. EL-506A, EL-506H, EL-506P, EL-506W, EL-506WBK).
Description
This handheld electronic calculator is the first model in a series of scientific calculators sold by Sharp under variations of the designation EL-506 (e.g. EL-506A, EL-506H, EL-506P, EL-506W, EL-506WBK). This particular calculator has a metal and plastic case and thirty-nine rectangular plastic keys. The four lower rows of keys are similar to those found on many calculators, with ten digit keys, a change sign key, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, three memory keys and a total key. The memory keys also can serve as keys for various statistical functions, as can two keys above them. The remaining keys represent a wide array of trigonometric, logarithmic, exponential and other functions, as well as a function key and an on/clear key. Above the keys is an on/off switch. A mark next to it reads: SHARP (/) Scientific calculator (/) EL-506. Behind this is a ten-digit LCD display.
The plastic back of the case has text that reads in part: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-506. It also reads: NO. 06188695 (/) SHARP CORPORATION (/) MADE IN JAPAN BM.
The calculator has a brown plastic wallet.
References:
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, March 1, 1980, p. SD_A3. Sharp EL-506 advertised as selling for $24.95. Image is of this calculator.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, May 17, 1985, p. D20. Sharp EL-506 advertised as selling for $24.95. Image is of this calculator.
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, December 3, 1989, p. AA38. Sharp EL-506 advertised as selling for $18.88. This is not the same as the calculator in the collections.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1980-1985
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.317
catalog number
1986.0988.317
accession number
1986.0988
In 1977, an advertisement in a Chicago newspaper introducing this calculator claimed that it offered “International elegance. Out of this world intelligence.” The advertisement described two Sharp calculators using liquid crystal displays.
Description
In 1977, an advertisement in a Chicago newspaper introducing this calculator claimed that it offered “International elegance. Out of this world intelligence.” The advertisement described two Sharp calculators using liquid crystal displays. These required much less power than other forms of display, making it possible to build smaller, more stylish instruments.
The thin handheld electronic calculator has silver-colored metal case and an array of twenty rounded rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a % key, four arithmetic function keys, an on/clear key, a clear entry key, a square root key, and a total key. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit LCD display. The on/off switch is below the display at the left. Text right of this reads: SHARP (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR. Text below the keyboard reads: SHARP ELSI MATE (/) EL-8028.
The back of the calculator has a compartment for two squat cylindrical silver oxide batteries at the base. Text above this reads: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-8028. It also reads: SHARP CORPORATION (/) MADE IN JAPAN BM. The text also reads: NO. 71109296. The most recent U.S. patent listed has number 3976994. This patent, for an LCD display, was issued in 1976 and assigned to Sharp.
The brown leatherette case holds the calculator and a paper manual for it. Text on the outside of the wallet reads: SHARP (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR.
References:
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, June 22, 1977, p. B6. This model calculator selling for $19.95. A closely related model, the EL-8128, had five memory keys and sold for $24.95.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, October 21, 1977, p. C8. This calculator was on sale for $15.99. The EL-8128 was on sale for $19.95.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1977
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.318
catalog number
1986.0988.318
accession number
1986.0988
This is the first kind of programmable calculator sold by Sharp Corporation. The manufacturer advertised it as a “pocket computer.” The handheld electronic calculator has a metal and plastic case with forty rectangular plastic keys.
Description
This is the first kind of programmable calculator sold by Sharp Corporation. The manufacturer advertised it as a “pocket computer.” The handheld electronic calculator has a metal and plastic case with forty rectangular plastic keys. In addition, there are two slides along the right side, one for setting the type of angular measure to be entered (degrees/radians/grads) and the other relating to entering and running programs.
The scientific calculator has the keys for digits; arithmetic functions; sign change; logarithmic, exponential, trigonometric, and inverse trigonometric functions; summation; powers; square roots; cube roots; pi; factorials; reciprocals; and squares. A 1977 advertisement boast that it has “24+ preprogrammed scientific functions.” In addition, it was possible to enter programs of up to 128 steps and store up to twelve of them in the memory of the calculator. There was no provision for external storage of the programs or for entering or displaying alphabetic characters. The initial price of $89.95 dropped quickly.
Behind the keyboard is a green vacuum fluorescent display that shows up to twelve digits of a mantissa and two digits of an exponent (in base ten). A mark above the display reads: SHARP ELSI MATE (/) PC-1201. A mark above this reads: SHARP (/) POCKET COMPUTER. An on/off switch is on the left side and a power jack is along the back edge.
The battery compartment at the top of the back of the calculator holds two AA batteries. Text below it reads in part: POCKET COMPUTER (/) PC-1201. It also reads in part: SHARP CORPORATION (/) MADE IN JAPAN BM. Below this mark is a silver-colored sticker. A mark below this reads: 75004789.
References:
[Advertisement], Washington Post, September 13, 1977, p. A13. Advertised as on sale for $89.95.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, October 28, 1978, p. C6. Special price on PC-1201 is $79.95.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, November 11, 1979, p. A10. Closeout sale on a “user programmable pocket computer” made by Sharp that originally sold for $89.95 offers device for $39.35. Looks like this calculator.
Websites with considerable discussion of this calculator include johnwolff.id.au and rskey.org, both accessed October 30, 2014.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1977-1978
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1987.0435.12
catalog number
1987.0435.12
accession number
1987.0435
In the second half of the 1970s, taking advantage of the introduction of liquid crystal displays, manufacturers of handheld electronic calculators designed and built ever-thinner products. In this Sharp calculator the usual keys have been replaced by a single thin membrane.
Description
In the second half of the 1970s, taking advantage of the introduction of liquid crystal displays, manufacturers of handheld electronic calculators designed and built ever-thinner products. In this Sharp calculator the usual keys have been replaced by a single thin membrane. This reduces the thickness of the calculator itself to about .3 cm (about 1/8”). Pushing numbers on such a calculator produces no tactile sensation. To give users a sense that they indeed had entered information, the calculator could be set so that a tone sounded whenever a digit or function was entered. Pushing the section of the membrane with a musical note on it (called the sensor key) activated this part of the calculator.
The credit card-sized calculator has a total of twenty-six “keys.” To the left are ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a % key, four arithmetic function keys, three memory keys, and a total key. Right of these are an off key, an on/clear key, a sensor key, a clear entry key, a STR key for storing a number in the memory, and a COMP key for computing conversions by multiplying the stored value by the value in the display. These last two keys are labeled: STORAGE COMPUTER.
Behind the key membrane on the left side is the eight-digit LCD display. Text next to it reads: SHARP EL-8145.
Text on the back of the calculator reads: SHARP (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR U.S. Pats. 390169 & 3976994 (/) EL-8145 No. (/) 86408458. It also reads: SHARP CORPORATION MADE IN JAPAN. The most recent U.S. patent number listed, 3976994, was issued in 1976 and assigned to Sharp.
The calculator ran on two squat cylindrical silver oxide batteries.
The instrument fits into a black plastic wallet. A mark on the front of the wallet reads: SHARP (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR. The wallet, in turn, fits into a blue cardboard box. One price tag on the box reads: FRED MEYER (/) $29.95. Another reads: FRED MEYER SALE (/) $19.99.
Sharp membrane calculators in the collections include 1997.0032.01 (Sharp EL-8152 or EL-8152A), 1987.0435.13 (Sharp EL-8130A) and 1986.0988.316 (Sharp EL-8145).
References:
[Advertisement], Washington Post, September 1, 1978. p. C5. “Credit card calculator” advertised as on sale for $34.95.
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, November 12, 1978, p. N4. Price given is $32.95. Comparable (less expensive) credit card-sized calculators mentioned in the ad are the National Semiconductor NS 102 and the Casio LC-78.
[Advertisemnt], Los Angeles Times, October 20, 1979, p. D7. Price for calculator listed as $25.95.
[Advertisemnt], Los Angeles Times, February 17, 1980, p. C9. Price of calculator listed as $28.88.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1978-1980
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.316
catalog number
1986.0988.316
accession number
1986.0988

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