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

Place: Hong Kong

Unisonic 1541L Handheld Electronic Calculator

This handheld electronic calculator has a metal and black plastic case and an array of thirty rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, and four memory keys.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a metal and black plastic case and an array of thirty rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, and four memory keys. In addition the instrument has clear, clear entry, percentage, CS, and CA keys. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit red LED display. A mark at the back reads: Unisonic 1541L. The on/off switch is on the right edge.
A jack for a power adapter is along the back edge. At the top of the back is a compartment for a nine-volt battery. A sticker below it reads: SERIAL NO. (/) 031491 (/) Made in Hong Kong.
According to the Vintage Calculators website, this model calculator also sold as the Prinztronic 400, the dsc CAL-0041, the Meir 880, the RJP 880, and the Texet 880 Executive.
References:
Calcuseum website gives date of 1978.
[Advertisement], , August 7, 1979, p. 41. Advertises calculator.
Website vintagecalculators.com lists related models.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1979
maker
Unisonic
ID Number
1986.0988.246
catalog number
1986.0988.246
accession number
1986.0988

Unisonic 1540L Handheld Electronic Calculator

This handheld electronic calculator has a metal and dark brown and tan plastic case and an array of twenty-five square plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, and four memory keys.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a metal and dark brown and tan plastic case and an array of twenty-five square plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, and four memory keys. In addition the instrument has a change sign key, an exchange key, a square root key, a percentage key, and a clear entry/clear key. Above these is the on/off switch. Behind is an eight-digit red LED display. A mark at the back reads: Unisonic 1540L.
A jack for a power adapter is along the back edge. At the top of the back is a compartment for two AA batteries. A sticker inside it reads: 59545. A sticker near the base of the back reads in part: Remove batteries if unit unlikely (/) to be used for more than 7 days. (/) Made in Hong Kong.
References:
[Advertisement], Ludington [Michigan] Daily News, August 29, 1977, p. 18. Unisonic 1540L on sale for $8.88, regularly $11.59.
[Advertisement], Grand Prairie [Texas] Daily News, August 11, 1977, p. 14. Unisonic 1540L on sale for $8.88, regularly $11.59.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1977
maker
Unisonic
ID Number
1986.0988.294
catalog number
1986.0988.294
accession number
1986.0988

Nobility Handheld Electronic Calculator

This battery-operated handheld electronic calculator has a brown plastic case, a metal keyboard, and twenty-five rectangular plastic keys.
Description
This battery-operated handheld electronic calculator has a brown plastic case, a metal keyboard, and twenty-five rectangular plastic keys. In addition to ten digit keys, four arithmetic function keys, a decimal point key, and a total key; it has four memory keys, a square root key, a % key, a change sign key, a clear/ lear entry key, and a TM/CAL key. Behind the keys is a switch that may be set at CAL, TM, or SET. To the left of this is a mark that reads: Nobility, with a symbol for a registered trademark. No trademark found.
Behind this, at an angle for easy viewing, is an LCD display. On the back is a compartment for two AA batteries. A sticker below this reads: Nobility (/) Electronic Calculator (/) DC 3V (/) Use 2x1.5V “AA” or “UM-3” Batteries (/) Made in Hong Kong.
A mark below the total key reads: AJ. A mark below the addition key reads: TM.
A credit card-sized calculator that uses the same Nobility logo is 1986.0988.263.
Nobility is most probably a trade name, not a maker's name.
Reference:
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, November 27, 1980, p. SE13. A Nobility handheld calculator advertised, but not this one.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1980
maker
Nobility
ID Number
1986.0988.259
catalog number
1986.0988.259
accession number
1986.0988

Calfax 890P Handheld Electronic Calculator

This handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case. The oval plastic keys are colored red (the percentage, constant, and clear/clear entry keys), white (the ten digit keys and the decimal point key) and blue (the four function keys and the total key).
Behind the keyboard is an on/off switch; behind it is an eight-digit red LED display
A sticker behind the display reads: calfax 890P. A socket for an adapter is on the top edge. This example has no adapter.
The battery compartment on the top of the back would hold two batteries. This example presently has no batteries. A tag on the back reads: Serial No. (/) 615066 (/) MADE IN HONG KONG.
The "calfax" mark on the calculator uses a trademark reportedly first used in commerce in 1972, filed in the United States January 1973, and registered in September 1975. No trademark registration is indicated on this example.
An advertisement in the Washington Post published in July of 1976 shows several Calfax calculators, including a Calfax 890P. It emphasizes the advantage of the percent key. At that time, the model had a sale price of $7.99.
Compare 1988.0988.202.
Reference:
Washington Post, July 28, 1976, p. A16.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1976
maker
Calfax
ID Number
1986.0988.022
catalog number
1986.0988.022
accession number
1986.0988

Unitrex CB-8SL Handheld Electronic Calculator

This handheld electronic calculator is designed to fit into a checkbook (this example has no wallet). It has a plastic front, circuit board, and keys.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator is designed to fit into a checkbook (this example has no wallet). It has a plastic front, circuit board, and keys. The twenty-three rectangular keys include ten digit keys, a decimal point key (that can also serve as a memory exchange key), a percentage key (that can serve as a square root key), a total key, four arithmetic function keys (one of which can also serve as a squaring key and another as an inverse key), four memory keys, a clear entry/clear key, and a function/clear function key. The on/off switch is left of the three keys in the top row. There is space for six AAA batteries but no battery jack.
A sticker on the back of the calculator circuit board reads in part: UNITREX MODEL CB-8SL ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR. It also reads in part: SERIAL NO. 94456 (/) HONG KONG
Compare Unitrex CB-8SL (1986.098.161) and Novus Attache (1986.0988.227).
References:
[Advertisement], Eastern Progress, April 28, 1977, p. 8. Unitrex CB-8SL on sale for $17.99, regularly $19.99.
[Advertisement], Sedalia Democrat [Sedalia, Missouri], October 26, 1977, p. 36. Unitrex slide rule checkbook calculator selling for $9.99.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1977
maker
Eiko Business Machine Company
ID Number
1986.0988.161
catalog number
1986.0988.161
accession number
1986.0988

Newsweek LC 788 Light Powered Handheld Electronic Calculator

In the mid-1980s many magazine publishers sought to increase the number of subscribers, and thus the advertising rates they could charge, by offering electronic equipment such as radios, digital watches, and calculators as premiums.
Description
In the mid-1980s many magazine publishers sought to increase the number of subscribers, and thus the advertising rates they could charge, by offering electronic equipment such as radios, digital watches, and calculators as premiums. In the second half of 1986, Newsweek used premiums on 41% of its sales. This is such a premium.
The handheld electronic calculator has a folding black plastic case, with the display and solar battery in the inside of the lid and the array of twenty-four square and rectangular plastic keys on the base. In addition to ten digit keys, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys and a total key, the calculator has a square root key, a change sign key, a % key, a clear entry/clear key, three memory keys, and an AC key. The battery is below the eight-digit display. A mark inside the lid near the fold reads: Newsweek. Another mark near this reads: LIGHT POWERED CALCULATOR. Text on the top of the lid reads: LC-788 LIGHT POWERED CALCULATOR.
A sticker on the back reads: Model LC788 (/) Electronic Calculator (/) Solar Powered (/) Made in Hong Kong F X.
References:
Sandra Sugawara, “U.S. News & World Report Says Strategy Is Working,” Washington Post, June 22, 1987, p. WB3.
Albert Scardino, “Premiums Losing Favor as Circulation Costs Rise,” New York Times, October 23, 1989, p. D11.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1984
ID Number
1986.0988.150
catalog number
1986.0988.150
accession number
1986.0988

Coleco Digits Handheld Electronic Game

This electronic game is the general size and shape of a handheld electronic calculator. The purpose of the game is to figure out a four-digit code generated (but not displayed) by pressing the "CODE" button in the top row of keys.
Description
This electronic game is the general size and shape of a handheld electronic calculator. The purpose of the game is to figure out a four-digit code generated (but not displayed) by pressing the "CODE" button in the top row of keys. If the "SKILL" switch in the bottom row is set at 1, the secret code will have no digits larger than a five, if the skill position is 2, any digit may be used. Players guess the code by entering a number in the "CODE" section of the LED display. Pressing the "TRY" key reveals the number of correct digits in the correct position and the number of correct digits in an incorrect position. Clearing the display by pushing the C button, one can enter further guesses. If and when the correct secret code is numbered, a 4 and a 0 appear in status boxes and that display flashes.
An outlet for an adapter is on the fight side of the plastic case. The battery compartment on the back holds a nine volt battery. A sticker on the inside of this compartment reads: 44 01 8. A sticker below the compartment on the back gives instructions for playing the game. A mark below this sticker reads: HONG KONG.
References:
Chicago Tribune, November 25, 1978, p. S6.
Carla Kallan, "Electronic Games People Play: Toy Outlets Reflect the Arrival of the Computer Age," Los Angeles Times, December 11, 1979, p. H1, H5.
“DIGITS Instructions and Game Rules,” Amsterdam, N.Y.: Coleco Industries, Inc., 1978. This is online at: https://archive.org/details/manuals-handheld-games-Coleco-Digits. Accessed June 3, 2014.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1978
maker
Coleco
ID Number
1986.0988.130
accession number
1986.0988
catalog number
1986.0988.130

Unitrex 95SL Handheld Electronic Calculator

This handheld electronic calculator has a tan plastic case and an array of twenty-four rectangular indented plastic keys.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a tan plastic case and an array of twenty-four rectangular indented plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key (that can also serve as a memory exchange key), a percentage key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys (one of which can also serve as a squaring key and another as an inverse key), a square root key, four memory keys, a clear entry/clear key, and a function/clear function key.
Behind the keys is an eight-digit red LED display. A worn mark above it once read: UNITREX. The on/off key is on the right side and the power jack is on the left side.
A sticker on the inside of the battery compartment on the back reads: 9 VOLT BATTERY. The compartment cover is missing. Text at the bottom of the case reads: HONG KONG.
The model number is deduced by comparing this object to objects on websites and in printed sources.
References:
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 171.
[Advertisement], Progress Bulletin [Pomona, California], March 28, 1977, p. 26. Calculator selling for $7.99.
Vintagecalculators.com website.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1977
maker
Eiko Business Machine Company
ID Number
1986.0988.016
catalog number
1986.0988.016
accession number
1986.0988

Calfax 800CD Handheld Electronic Calculator with Instructions

This handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case with a metal band around the edge and a metal plaque on the back. It has square plastic keys that are indented at the middle (going from top to bottom).
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case with a metal band around the edge and a metal plaque on the back. It has square plastic keys that are indented at the middle (going from top to bottom). In addition to an array of ten digit keys and a decimal key, the calculator has keys for four arithmetic functions, a total key, a constant key, a red cancel key, and an on/off switch.
A tag above the keyboard reads: calfax 800CD. Behind the tag is an eight-digit red LED display.
The metal plaque on the back has an “Operating Outline” printed on it. This includes a mark at the bottom: Made in Hong Kong.
The socket for the AC adapter is on the left side at the top. This example has no adapter. Rotating a screw at the base of the plaque opens a battery compartment which would hold a nine-volt battery. A sticker above the battery compartment reads in part: Serial No. 65780.
A paper instruction booklet received with the calculator indicates that if the calculator fails to function correctly outside the country of purchase, it should be returned to Supertronic Ltd., 180 Connaught Rd. West, 12th Flr., Hong Kong.
The "calfax" mark on the calculator is in the form of a trademark reportedly first used in commerce in 1972, filed in the United States January 1973, and registered in September 1975. No trademark registration is indicated on this example.
The Calfax 800CD was advertised as a lure for depositors at an Ohio bank in February 1974. Customers depositing $400 could purchase it for $38.50, with the adapter an additional $3.50. A deposit of $10,000 brought the price down to $19.50. By October of 1975, the device was listed in a newspaper advertisement as having an original price of $24.95 and on sale for $10.88, with an additional $2.99 for the adapter.
References:
The Columbus Telegraph, February 1974, p. 6.
Canton Observer and Eccentric, October 16, 1975, Section A.
Calculator Operating Manual and Guarantee Calfax 800 CD.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1974-1975
maker
Calfax
ID Number
1986.0988.020
catalog number
1986.0988.020
accession number
1986.0988

Radio Shack EC-243 Handheld Electronic Calculator

This handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case in two shades of gray, a silver-colored keyboard, and twenty-three rectangular plastic keys. The meaning of the keys is written above them on the keyboard.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case in two shades of gray, a silver-colored keyboard, and twenty-three rectangular plastic keys. The meaning of the keys is written above them on the keyboard. Keys include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, and four memory keys. The top row has an on/off switch, a square root key, a % key, and a clear/clear entry key. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit green fluorescent display. Text behind this reads: Radio Shack (/) MEMORY EC-243.
A compartment for two AA batteries is at the top of the back. A jack for a power adapter is along the back edge. A sticker below the compartment reads: Radio Shack (/) Cat. No. : 65-618 (/) Model : EC-243 (/) DC : 3V (“AA” Cell x 2) (/) For 120V AC Operation (/) Use AC Adaptor 65-735 (/) Custom Mfd. in Hong Kong for (/) RADIO SHACK. A Division of Tandy Corp. (/) 7J-208.
The calculator has a power adapter that plugs into the back edge. It is marked: Radio Shack (/) 273-1435 (/) 3V AC Adapter.
Compare 1986.0988.043 (Radio Shack EC-242).
Reference:
Radio Shack, A Tandy Company, 1978 Catalog No. 289, p. 146, accessed September 22, 2014, at radioshackcatalogs.com. The price listed is $14.95.
Radio Shack, A Tandy Company, 1979 Catalog No. 302, p. 129, accessed September 22, 2014, at radioshackcatalogs.com. The price listed is $14.95.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1978-1979
maker
Tandy Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.044
catalog number
1986.0988.044
accession number
1986.0988

Unisonic LC-200 Handheld Electronic Calculator

This compact, thin handheld electronic calculator has a silver and brown colored metal case and an array of twenty-five rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, four arithmetic function keys, a decimal point key, and a total key.
Description
This compact, thin handheld electronic calculator has a silver and brown colored metal case and an array of twenty-five rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, four arithmetic function keys, a decimal point key, and a total key. The calculator also has four memory keys and square root, percentage, clear entry, and clear keys. The off key is on the left in the top row of keys.
Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit LCD display. Behind it is a mark that reads: Unisonic (/) LC-200.
A mark on the back of the calculator reads: LIQUID CRYSTAL CALCULATOR (/) RATING: DC 3V 0.0005W (/) 625 TYPE BATTERY x 2. Further text reads: MADE IN HONG KONG. Unscrewing two screws at the bottom of the case reveals a brown plastic circuit board and two batteries above it. A mark on the chip reads: A1.
The calculator comes with a worn plastic case and a set of instructions in both English and French.
Compare 1986.0988.321.
For information about Unisonic, see 1986.0988.371.
Reference:
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, January 4, 1979, p. I8. On sale for $12.99. Price includes case. The calculator shown in this advertisement resembles this calculator more than 1986.0988.321.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1979
maker
Unisonic
ID Number
1986.0988.121
accession number
1986.0988
catalog number
1986.0988.121

National Semiconductor NS 4520 Handheld Electronic Calculator, the Scientist

In the mid-1970s, National Semiconductor Corporation made a series of “professional” calculators that were distributed under both the Novus and the National Semiconductor brand names.
Description
In the mid-1970s, National Semiconductor Corporation made a series of “professional” calculators that were distributed under both the Novus and the National Semiconductor brand names. This handheld electronic calculator, dubbed the Scientist, sold under the National Semiconductor name. The calculator has a black plastic case, thirty-five rectangular plastic keys, and a plastic display cover. At the bottom of the keyboard are ten digit keys, a decimal point key, and a clear key. To the right of these is a column of four arithmetic function keys. The function of these keys is marked on the keys themselves. Also included among the marked keys is an enter key. The calculator used reverse Polish notation.
To the right and above these keys are a variety of function keys. The function of the keys is indicated on the keyboard. A mark above the keyboard reads: Scientist. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit red LED display. A mark above this reads: National Semiconductor. The jack for a power adapter is along the back edge and a power switch is on the left edge.
The calculator has no separate battery compartment. A marked scratched on the case reads: MODEL (/) 4520. A sticker at the bottom of the back reads: Made in Hong Kong.
Compare the Novus Scientist (1986.0988.228).
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1976
maker
National Semiconductor Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.063
catalog number
1986.0988.063
accession number
1986.0988

APF Mark 65R Handheld Electronic Calculator

This handheld electronic calculator has twenty-four indented square plastic keys. These include ten white digit keys and an eleventh white decimal point key; and keys for the four arithmetic functions as well as percentage, square root, clear entry/clear, and equals keys.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has twenty-four indented square plastic keys. These include ten white digit keys and an eleventh white decimal point key; and keys for the four arithmetic functions as well as percentage, square root, clear entry/clear, and equals keys. Five orange memory keys are in the rightmost column. The on/off switch is above these keys on the left, and the nine-digit fluorescent display is behind this. A mark below the display reads: aPF rechargeable MARK 65r. The hole for the recharger/adapter is on the top edge.
The black plastic case has two rubber feet at the top. A silver-colored paper sticker below this reads: aPF ELECTRONICS, INC. (/) MODEL NO. MARK 65r (/) D.C. 4.5 VOLTS (/) CAUTION. Use only A.C. adaptor/recharger (/) model 751S to operate on A.C. (/) SERIAL NO. H65r-024822 (/) 7545.005 HONG KONG. Below this is the cover for the sealed battery case. A black paper sticker on this reads: THIS UNIT IS EQUIPPED WITH (/) RECHARGEABLE NICAD BATTERIES. (/) BATTERY COVER IS SEALED. (/) DO NOT ATTEMPT TO OPEN.
Ball and Flamm mention a 1977 advertisement for this calculator which gave a price of $18.95.
Compare the Sears F85 (1986.0988.182).
Reference:
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector's Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 30.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1977
maker
APF Electronics
ID Number
1986.0988.174
accession number
1986.0988
catalog number
1986.0988.174

Radio Shack EC-242 Handheld Electronic Calculator

This handheld electronic calculator has a gray plastic case, a black keyboard, and twenty-two rectangular plastic keys. The meaning of the keys is written above them on the keyboard.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a gray plastic case, a black keyboard, and twenty-two rectangular plastic keys. The meaning of the keys is written above them on the keyboard. Keys include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a clear/clear entry key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, two memory keys, an on key, and an off key. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit red LED display. Text behind this reads: Radio Shack (/) MEMORY EC-242.
A compartment for a nine volt battery is at the top of the back. A jack for a power adapter is along the back edge. A sticker below the compartment reads: Radio Shack (/) Cat. No. : 65-617 (/) Model : EC-242 (/) DC : 9V (006P x 1) (/) For 120V AC Operation (/) Use AC Adaptor 65-731 (/) Custom Mfd. in Hong Kong for (/) RADIO SHACK. A Division of Tandy Corp. (/) 7J-207.
Radio Shack advertised this “low-priced memory calculator” as “a real budget-master.”
Compare 1986.0988.044 (Radio Shack EC-243).
Reference:
Radio Shack, A Tandy Company, 1978 Catalog No. 289, p. 146, accessed September 22, 2014, at radioshackcatalogs.com. The price listed is $8.88.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1978
maker
Tandy Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.043
catalog number
1986.0988.043
accession number
1986.0988

Calfax 616 Handheld Electronic Calculator

This handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case. The oval plastic keys are colored red (the clear/clear entry key), white (the ten digit keys and the decimal point key), and blue (the four function keys and the enter key).
Behind the keyboard is an on/off switch on the right and a D key. Switching the D key changes from floating point arithmetic to a decimal point fixed for dollar and cents results. Behind the switches is six-digit red LED display
A sticker behind the display reads: calfax 616. There is no socket for an adapter.
The battery compartment at the top of the back would hold two batteries. This example presently has no batteries. A paper tag within the compartment reads: INSPECTED BY (/) 30 OCT 1975. A paper tag on the back of the calculator reads: Serial No. (/) 479650 (/) MADE IN HONG KONG.
The calculator fits in a cardboard box with a leaflet of instructions and plastic packing. The "calfax" mark at the top of the instructions and on the lid of the box indicates a registered trademark. This trademark reportedly was first used in commerce in 1972, filed in the United States in January 1973 and registered in September 1975.
An advertisement in the Washington Post published in July of 1976 shows several Calfax calculators, including a Calfax 616. At that time, the model had a sale price of $5.99.
Compare 1988.0988.22.
Reference:
Washington Post, July 28, 1976, p. A16.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1975
maker
Calfax
ID Number
1986.0988.202
catalog number
1986.0988.202
accession number
1986.0988

Calfax 820CD Handheld Electronic Calculator

This handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case with aluminum trim. The square plastic keys are indented at the middle (going from top to bottom).
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case with aluminum trim. The square plastic keys are indented at the middle (going from top to bottom). In addition to an array of ten digit keys and a decimal key, the calculator has keys for four arithmetic functions, a total key, a constant key, a red cancel key, and an on/off switch.
Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit red LED display.
A mark behind the display reads: calfax 820CD. A socket for an adapter is on the top edge. This example has no adapter.
The battery compartment at the top of the back would hold two batteries. No batteries or cover for the compartment are in the present example. A tag on the back gives an “Operating Outline” for the calculator. It includes a mark at the bottom: Made in Hong Kong.
The "calfax" mark on the calculator uses a trademark reportedly first used in commerce in 1972, filed in the United States January 1973, and registered in September 1975. No trademark registration is indicated on this example.
No serial number found.
Compare 1988.0988.20.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1974-1975
maker
Calfax
ID Number
1986.0988.021
catalog number
1986.0988.021
accession number
1986.0988

Radio Shack EC-267 Handheld Electronic Calculator

This thin, relatively flat handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and an array of twenty-four rectangular plastic keys. The ten digit keys and decimal point key are white.
Description
This thin, relatively flat handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and an array of twenty-four rectangular plastic keys. The ten digit keys and decimal point key are white. The total key, four arithmetic function keys, four memory keys, change sign key, % key, and square root key are black. The clear/clear entry key is red. The on/off switch is to the left on the top row of keys.
Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit LCD display. Text behind it reads: Radio Shack (/) statesman thin LCD. The calculator has no jack for a power adapter.
At the top of the back is a compartment for two AA batteries. Stickers inside it read: 61885 and: 6AO. A sticker below the battery compartment on the back reads: Radio Shack (/) Cat. No. : 65-674 (/) Model : EC-267 (/) DC 3V (‘AA’ Cell x 2) (/) Custom Mfd. in Hong Kong for Radio Shack, (/) A Division of Tandy Corporation.
According to a 1981 Catalog, this was a new model for Radio Shack in 1981.
Reference:
Radio Shack, A Tandy Company, 1981 Catalog No. 328, p. 164, accessed September 22, 2014, at radioshackcatalogs.com.. The price listed for the calculator is $14.95.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1981
maker
Tandy Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.045
catalog number
1986.0988.045
accession number
1986.0988

Bohsei Model 1000 Handheld Electronic Calculator

This handheld electronic calculator has a light gray plastic case. It has ten digit keys, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, and a total key.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a light gray plastic case. It has ten digit keys, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, and a total key. The keyboard has special blue squares surrounding the keys for pi, square root, reciprocal, percentage, and clear entry/clear. The four memory keys also have a blue background. The eight-digit green fluorescent display is behind the keyboard. A mark at the top left reads: BOHSEI. A mark immediately above the display reads: MODEL 1000. The on/off swith is on the right side.
The case has a compartment for AA two batteries at the back. A gold-colored paper tag reads: Serial No. (/) 932770 (/) MADE IN HONG KONG. The calculator has a socket for an adapter on the top, but no adapter in this example.
Newspaper advertisements indicate that a printing desktop electronic calculator was sold under the Bohsei name in 1977. A February 1978 advertisement in the Chicago Tribune indicates that the Bohsei Model 1000 was then on sale at a special price of $8.88.
References:
Chicago Tribune, November 24, 1977, p. T12.
Chicago Tribune, February 25, 1978, p. 8.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1978
ID Number
1986.0988.158
catalog number
1986.0988.158
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

Corvus 804 Handheld Electronic Calculator

This handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case that is bright orange on top and black on the bottom. The twenty-three plastic keys appear to have plastic stickers atop them—these are worn.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case that is bright orange on top and black on the bottom. The twenty-three plastic keys appear to have plastic stickers atop them—these are worn. The keys include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a clear key, a total key (this is illegible), four arithmetic function keys, four memory keys, a square root key, and a percentage key. The on/off switch is in the upper left corner of the keyboard. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit red LED display. A sticker behind this reads: CORVUS. An outlet for a power adapter is on the top edge.
The back has a battery compartment for a single battery. A sticker below this has stamped on it: 34856. Scratched on the sticker is the number 804.
The instrument has a black leather zippered case, which may not have come with it.
Images of other examples of the calculator that are available online indicate that it was made in Hong Kong.
For a brief time in the 1970s, Mostek Corporation sold electronic calculators through a subsidiary, Corvus Corporation of Dallas, Texas. Founded in 1969 as a spinoff of Texas Instruments, Mostek became a leading manufacturer of semiconductors. Some of its first products were chips used by the Japanese firm of Busicom in desktop electronic calculators. In 1970, Busicom introduced such a calculator that used only a single Mostek chip. Mostek became one of the world’s leading manufacturers of metal oxide semiconductor read only memories, before being acquired by United Technologies in 1979. According to trademark registration for Corvus, the term was first used in commerce referring to an electronic digital calculator in 1973. This is the latest Corvus calculator presently in the collections, dating from about 1976.
References:
[Advertisement], Lincoln Star, August 26, 1976, p. 110. Corvus 804 calculator sells for $14.95.
[Advertisement], Texas Monthly, October, 1976, p. 47. This advertisement is for games that could be played on a Corvus 804 calculator.
For images of a similar Corvus calculator, see the datamath.org website, accessed June 17, 2014.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1976
maker
Corvus Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.101
catalog number
1986.0988.101
accession number
1986.0988

Radofin 8P Handheld Electronic Calculator

This basic handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and nineteen oval indented plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, four arithmetic function keys, a % key, a total key, a decimal point key, a constant key, and a clear/clear entry key.
Description
This basic handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and nineteen oval indented plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, four arithmetic function keys, a % key, a total key, a decimal point key, a constant key, and a clear/clear entry key. At the left in the top row of keys is an on/off switch. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit red LED display. Text at the top reads: Radofin. A jack for a power adapter is on the left side.
The back of the calculator has a battery compartment for a nine volt battery. A sticker at the center of the back reads in part: Radofin (/) MODEL 8P ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) DC 9 V 500mW 1 x 9V BATTERY. Further text reads: SERIAL NO 8P 26701 (/) RADOFIN ELECTRONICS LTD. HONG KONG.
Compare 1986.0988.256 (Radofin1610).
References:
[Advertisement], Washington Post, August 14, 1975, p. MD11. Advertised as regularly priced at $19.97, on sale for $11.88.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, September 25, 1975. Advertised as regularly priced at $14.88, on sale for $10.88.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, December 14, 1975, p. OC3. Advertised as regularly priced at $12.88, on sale for $9.88.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1975
maker
Radofin Electronics
ID Number
1986.0988.146
catalog number
1986.0988.146
accession number
1986.0988

Radofin 2200 Handheld Electronic Calculator

This handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case with a metallic-colored keyboard and stickers and eighteen black plastic keys. The keys include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a clear key, and a constant key.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case with a metallic-colored keyboard and stickers and eighteen black plastic keys. The keys include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a clear key, and a constant key. The on/off switch is to the left of the top two keys. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit red LED display. A mark behind this reads: Radofin.
The back of the calculator has a compartment for a nine-volt battery. A sticker below the compartment reads in part: Radofin (/) OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS. It also reads in part: SERIAL NO. 2200- 14598 (/) RADOFIN ELECTRONICS. A small sticker below this reads: ASSEMBLED IN TAIWAN. A mark in molded plastic reads: HONG KONG.
No advertisements found.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1975
maker
Radofin Electronics
ID Number
1986.0988.081
catalog number
1986.0988.081
accession number
1986.0988

Vitronic V Handheld Electronic Calculator

This credit card-sized calculator has a metal case with twenty-three rectangular plastic keys and plastic trim. The keys include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a percentage key, and three memory keys.
Description
This credit card-sized calculator has a metal case with twenty-three rectangular plastic keys and plastic trim. The keys include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a percentage key, and three memory keys. In addition, the calculator has an off key, an on/clear key, and a clear entry key. Above the keys on the left is the eight-digit LCD display. A mark below it reads: VITRONIC V.
Text at the bottom of the back reads: CREDIT CARD ELECTRONIC (/) LIQUID CRYSTAL CALCULATOR. It also reads: MADE IN HONG KONG.
The calculator has a dark brown plastic container that also holds a leaflet of instructions.
Compare the National Semiconductor 102C (1986.0988.308) and the National Semiconductor 199 (1986.0988.309).
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1979
ID Number
1986.0988.162
catalog number
1986.0988.162
accession number
1986.0988

Rockwell 8R Handheld Electronic Calculator

This handheld electronic calculator has a dark brown plastic case and eighteen rounded rectangular plastic keys. In addition to ten digit keys and a decimal point key, it has a clear entry/clear key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, and a percentage key.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a dark brown plastic case and eighteen rounded rectangular plastic keys. In addition to ten digit keys and a decimal point key, it has a clear entry/clear key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, and a percentage key. A mark above the keyboard reads: Automatic (/) Percent. The on/off switch is on the left side. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit LED display. Text behind the display reads: Rockwell. A jack along the back edge would hold a power adapter.
The back of the calculator has four feet and a compartment at the top for a nine volt battery. A sticker below this gives operating examples. Text near the bottom reads: Rockwell (/) International Microelectronics Product Division (/) Anaheim, CA 92803 (/) Calculator Model 8R (/) Made in Hong Kong Mod [sic].
Compare the Rockwell 14RD (1986.0988.013) and the Rockwell 9TR (1986.0988.015). Also compare the Radio Shack EC-220 (1986.0988.038).
References:
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, August 14, 1975, p. SF4. Rockwell 8R advertised as selling for $16.88.
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, December 4, 1975, p. A6. Rockwell 8R advertised as selling for $16.88.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, December 18, 1976, p. C10. Rockwell 8R advertised as regularly priced at $14.88, selling for $8.95.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, February 11, 1977, p. C24. Rockwell 8R advertised as selling for $6.77.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1975-1977
maker
Rockwell International
ID Number
1986.0988.012
catalog number
1986.0988.012
accession number
1986.0988

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