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This is an example of the first model of an electronic calculator marketed by Texas Instruments under its own name. The handheld electronic calculator has a tan plastic case with a dark brown keyboard. It has an array of eighteen keys, sixteen of them square and two rectangular.

Description: This is an example of the first model of an electronic calculator marketed by Texas Instruments under its own name. The handheld electronic calculator has a tan plastic case with a dark brown keyboard. It has an array of eighteen keys, sixteen of them square and two rectangular. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a clear entry key, and a clear key. A switch at the right in the top row of keys may be set at “CHAIN” or “CONST.” A mark above this switch reads: Datamath. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit LED display.; A jack for a power outlet is along the back edge. An on/off switch is on the left side. A sticker on the back reads: MADE BY (/) TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) INCORPORATED (/) DALLAS, TEXAS. Another sticker reads in part: TI-2500 electronic calculator. It also reads in part: Datamath (/) electronic calculator. It also reads in part: Serial Number (/) 2500-344952 (/) 001-E Manufactured in U.S.A. The sticker indicates that the calculator had a built-in battery that gave six hours of portable operation and fully recharged in ten hours.; Unscrewing three long screws on the back of the case allows one to remove the back. The inside has five chips. The largest reads: TMS0119NC (/) 7310 (/) ZA 072. This is a TMS0119 chip, manufactured in the tenth week of 1973. There is space for four soldered batteries.; This appears to be the second version of the TI-2500, introduced in February of 1973 for a price of $119.95. The calculator initially was introduced in 1972.; Compare 1986.0988.188, 1986.0988.189, 1986.0988.190, 1986.0988.342, and 1986.0988.359.; References:; Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 157.; Online Datamath Museum, accessed May 13, 2015.
Location: Currently not on view

date made: 1973

maker: Texas Instruments

ID Number: 1986.0988.189
accession number: 1986.0988
catalog number: 1986.0988.189

This handheld electronic calculator has a white case with black trim and metal keyboard, and an array of square black "Klixon" keys. Such keys have a design trademarked by Texas Instruments and make a distinctive click when pressed.

Description: This handheld electronic calculator has a white case with black trim and metal keyboard, and an array of square black "Klixon" keys. Such keys have a design trademarked by Texas Instruments and make a distinctive click when pressed. In addition to ten digit and one decimal point key, the calculator has four keys for arithmetic functions. One serves as a total key for addition, another as a difference key for subtraction. The top of the keyboard has a constant switch, a clear entry key, and a red clear key. The on/off switch is below the keyboard. The text next to it reads: commodore (/) Minuteman 2.; The eight-digit red LED display is behind the keyboard. A cord for recharging the battery attaches at the back of the top. (This example has no cord.); The back has four plastic feet. A metal plate there gives operating instructions. Text near the bottom reads: COMMODORE (/) MODEL MM-2 SER. NO. R216527 (/) SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA (/) MADE IN U.S.A.; This was one of the first models of a handheld calculator sold by Commodore. It was manufactured by Bowmar/Ali and is similar to the Bowmar 901B.; Compare 1986.0988.099 (the Commodore Minuteman 1) and 1988.0988.129 (the Bowmar 901B).; References:; Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 57.; New York Times, December 19, 1972, p. 26. Advertisement indicates that the Minuteman 2 had a regular price of $179, sale price of $92.; New York Times, February 13, 1973, p. 6. Minuteman 2 has a regular price of $179 and a sale price of $79.; Los Angeles Times, February 22, 1974, P. A2 – Commodore MM2 calculator listed as on sale for $69.95, marked down from an original price of $99.50.
Location: Currently not on view

date made: 1972-1974

distributor: Commodore Business Machines, Inc.
maker: Bowmar/Ali

ID Number: 1986.0988.098
catalog number: 1986.0988.098
accession number: 1986.0988

This handheld calculator reflects Casio’s long-standing attempt to bring down the price of such devices. As in the Casio Mini, the display is to the left of the keyboard.

Description: This handheld calculator reflects Casio’s long-standing attempt to bring down the price of such devices. As in the Casio Mini, the display is to the left of the keyboard. The keyboard has an array of ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, and four keys for arithmetic functions that are to the right of the digit keys. Left of the digit keys are an AC (all clear) key, a clear (entry) key, and a key for shifting the display to show further digits in the result.; The on/off switch is above the six-digit vacuum fluorescent display. A mark below the display reads: CASIO personal-mini. A pin along the top edge would link to an adapter.; The back of the calculator has a compartment for two batteries. Text to the left of the compartment, stamped upside down, reads: personal-mini (/) BATTERY SUPPLY 1.5Vx2 or (/) use AC ADAPTOR AD-2S (/) .18W MADE IN JAPAN (/) BM CASIO COMPUTER CO., LTD. A sticker on the back of the compartment cover reads: 6643235. A sticker inside the compartment reads: 0503531.; The calculator fits in a black plastic sleeve. A mark on one side of the sleeve reads: CASIO. A mark on the other side reads: MADE IN JAPAN.; A March 1975 advertisement in the Washington Post describes a Casio Personal Mini very similar to this one. The advertising text indicates that the instrument took squares, powers, and reciprocals. However, the keyboards of the calculator shown and of this calculator have no special keys for these functions. The calculator sold for $19.95. Another advertisement for the Casio Personal Mini appeared in the New York Times in January of 1976. No details are given other than a price of $13.50.; References:; New York Times, January 25, 1976, p. 104.; Vintage Technology website.; Washington Post, March 23, 1975, p. A20.
Location: Currently not on view

date made: 1975-1976

maker: Casio Computer Company

ID Number: 1986.0988.025
catalog number: 1986.0988.025
accession number: 1986.0988

The handheld calculator has a black plastic case with ten digit keys, a decimal point key, keys for the four arithmetic functions, a total key, a percentage key, and a clear/clear entry key. The on-off switch is on the keyboard, the eight-digit display behind this.

Description: The handheld calculator has a black plastic case with ten digit keys, a decimal point key, keys for the four arithmetic functions, a total key, a percentage key, and a clear/clear entry key. The on-off switch is on the keyboard, the eight-digit display behind this. The plug for the power supply is on the right side. A mark at the top reads: Bowmar. It uses the Bowmar trademark registered in 1974.; A sticker on the back of the calculator reads in part: Bowmar MX55 PERSONAL CALCULATOR (/) WITH OMNI-CONSTANT® REGISTER. It also reads in part: BOWMAR MODEL MX55 SERIAL NO. 91220(/) BOWMAR/ALI, 531 MAIN ST., ACTON, MA. Pat. Pend. (/) ASSEMBLED IN MEXICO.; This example has no power supply, box, or instructions.; This is one of a series devices introduced by Bowmar in the early 1970s. A LED (light emitting diode) display manufacturer and defense contractor, Bowmar/Ali, Inc. (USA), found they could not sell their displays to Japanese electronic calculator makers. In 1970–71, Bowmar decided to design and manufacture portable calculators. Some were marketed by other companies, other, like this one, by Bowmar/Ali. The MX55 sold in 1974 at a list price of $69.; Compare 1986.0988.058 and 1986.0988.059.; Reference:; Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector's Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, pp. 35–37.
Location: Currently not on view

date made: ca 1974

maker: Bowmar/Ali

ID Number: 1986.0988.205
catalog number: 1986.0988.205
accession number: 1986.0988

This four-function handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case, and an array of ten digit keys and a decimal point key, all black.

Description: This four-function handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case, and an array of ten digit keys and a decimal point key, all black. In addition, it has memory, percentage, clear/clear entry, and total keys, as well as four arithmetic function keys, all of these are blue. The on/off switch is to the right on the top row of keys. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit LED display. A black plastic cover fits over the keyboard and display. A mark behind the display reads: Bowmar. A sticker behind this reads: MEMORY. A plug for the power supply is on the right.; The back of the calculator has a case for three AA batteries at the top. A sticker at the bottom reads: MODEL MX35 SERIAL (/) NUMBER 144885 (/) Bowmar/ ALI Inc. Acton, Mass (/) Patent Pending. A stamp on this sticker reads: ASSEMBLED (/) IN MEXICO.; Compare 1986.0988.206.; Bowmar introduced a calculator in 1971, and had successful sales in 1972 and 1973. Assembly began in Mexico in mid-1974. The company went bankrupt in February 1975 and stopped building calculators in the middle of that year. By 1976 distribution of Bowmar calculators had been taken over by Continental Microsystems.; An advertisement in the New York Times in September 1974 indicates that the Bowmar MX35 was then on sale for $54.95. An advertisement in the Chicago Tribune December 7, 1975, describes a buyout sale in which the Bowmar MX35 sold for $29.99, below the original dealer's cost of $45.50.; References:; Chicago Tribune, December 7, 1975, p. 30.; New York Times, September 17, 1974, p. 7.
Location: Currently not on view

date made: 1974-1975

maker: Bowmar/Ali

ID Number: 1986.0988.207
catalog number: 1986.0988.207
accession number: 1986.0988

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

This handheld electronic calculator has a white case with black trim and metal keyboard, and an array of twenty-three oval plastic keys. In addition to ten digit keys and one decimal point key, the calculator has four keys for arithmetic functions and a total key.

Description: This handheld electronic calculator has a white case with black trim and metal keyboard, and an array of twenty-three oval plastic keys. In addition to ten digit keys and one decimal point key, the calculator has four keys for arithmetic functions and a total key. In addition there are four memory keys, a percentage key, an exchange key, and a clear key. The on/off switch is at the right on the top row of keys. Text above the keyboard reads: commodore.; The ten-digit red LED display is behind the keyboard. A cord for recharging the battery attaches at the back of the top. (This example has no cord.) The back of the case has no tag.; Unscrewing four screws in the back of the device allows one to open the case. A mark on the chip reads: LC1552B (/) 7411. This chip is associated with Western Digital.; Compare 1986.0988.100 and 1986.0988.128.; Reference:; Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 58.
Location: Currently not on view

date made: 1974

distributor: Commodore Business Machines, Inc.

ID Number: 1986.0988.208
catalog number: 1986.0988.208
accession number: 1986.0988

This four-function handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and black keys. In addition to ten digit keys and a decimal point key, it has clear, total, clear entry, and four arithmetic function keys. The on/off switch is to the right on the top row of keys.

Description: This four-function handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and black keys. In addition to ten digit keys and a decimal point key, it has clear, total, clear entry, and four arithmetic function keys. The on/off switch is to the right on the top row of keys. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit LED display. A black plastic cover fits over the keyboard and display. A mark behind the display reads: Bowmar. A plug for the power supply is on the right.; The back of the calculator has a compartment for three AA batteries at the top. A sticker at the bottom reads: MODEL 90911 SERIAL (/) NUMBER 178970 (/) Bowmar/ ALI Inc. Acton, Mass. 01720 U.S.A. (/) Assembled in MEXICO Patent Pending.; Compare 1986.0988.207, which has somewhat more functions but a similar design. For references on Bowmar, see 1986.0988.106.; Bowmar introduced a calculator in 1971, and had successful sales in 1972 and 1973. Assembly began in Mexico in mid-1974. The company went bankrupt in February of 1975 and stopped building calculators in the middle of that year. By 1976 distribution of Bowmar calculators had been taken over by Continental Microsystems.; No advertisements for this particular model have been found.
Location: Currently not on view

date made: 1974-1975

maker: Bowmar/Ali

ID Number: 1986.0988.206
catalog number: 1986.0988.206
accession number: 1986.0988

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

This simple handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case, metal keyboard with silver-colored trim, and rectangular plastic keys.

Description: This simple handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case, metal keyboard with silver-colored trim, and rectangular plastic keys. The twenty keys include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a percent key, a change sign key, an off key, and an on/clear entry/clear key. A mark behind the keyboard reads: TI-1000. Behind this is an eight-digit LED display. A mark behind it reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. The power jack is on the right side.; The back of the calculator has a compartment for a nine-volt battery at the center. The cover for the compartment is marked on the inside: 2 (/) 1015633. A mark above the compartment reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator. Below the compartment is a space for a serial number but no serial number. A mark reads: LTA5078 (/) ASSEMBLED IN USA.; The calculator comes in a cardboard box. A mark on it reads in part: 1977 Texas Instruments Incorporated.; Compare 1986.0988.052. According to the online Datamath Museum, TI-1000 calculators with silver-colored trim on the keyboard were made after those with gold-colored trim.
Location: Currently not on view

date made: 1978

maker: Texas Instruments

ID Number: 1986.0988.051
catalog number: 1986.0988.051
accession number: 1986.0988

This handheld electronic calculator has an array of twenty-three oval plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, a clear key, an exchange key, four memory keys, and a percentage key.

Description: This handheld electronic calculator has an array of twenty-three oval plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, a clear key, an exchange key, four memory keys, and a percentage key. The on/off switch is to the right of the top keys. Text below the keyboard reads: commodore. Text above the eight-digit green fluorescent display reads: CUSTOM (/) GREEN LINE. An outlet for a power adapter is on the right side of the calculator.; Text on the back cover reads in part: Solid State Portable (/) Electronic Calculator (/) VOLTAGE (/) 4.5 V AC OPERATION (/) Use Commodore (/) adapter DC-420B (/) MODEL (/) GL-997R SERIAL NO. (/) 73954. It also reads: commodore japan limited (/) Made in Japan 200504-02. The case pops open (the screws at the bottom of the back are missing) and holds two AA batteries. The keyboard lifts up to reveal the circuitry, which includes a Commodore chip marked: GRBP-89 (/) 7518. This date code is the basis for the 1975 date of manufacture.; Compare 1986.0988.209; Reference:; Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 57.
Location: Currently not on view

date made: 1975

maker: Commodore Japan Limited

ID Number: 1986.0988.127
accession number: 1986.0988
catalog number: 1986.0988.127

This handheld electronic calculator has an off-white plastic case and an array of twenty rectangular plastic keys.

Description: This handheld electronic calculator has an off-white plastic case and an array of twenty rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, a change sign key, a percentage key, a square root key, a clear entry key, and a clear key. Above the keyboard on the right is the on/off switch. Left of it is a switch for setting a constant and left of this a switch for setting the position of the decimal point.; Behind these is an eight-digit red LED display. A mark behind it reads: UNITREX (/) mini handy 80R. A jack for a power adapter is along the back edge.; The back has a compartment for a nine-volt battery. A mark on the back of the cover of this compartment reads: A17D03893. Text on a sticker attached to the calculator at the base of the back reads: UNITREX mini handy 80R (/) EIKO BUSINESS MACHINE CO. LTD. (/) DC 9V 0.45W MADE IN JAPAN.; The case is very similar to that of the Unitrex Mini 8 (1986.0988.017).; Reference:; [Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, November 28, 1974, p. C11. Unitrex Mini Handy 80R regularly $39.95, on sale for $34.95.
Location: Currently not on view

date made: ca 1974

maker: Eiko Business Machine Company

ID Number: 1986.0988.018
catalog number: 1986.0988.018
accession number: 1986.0988

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 credit card-sized, lightweight handheld electronic calculator has an aluminum case, plastic keys and display cover, a plastic circuit board, and various metal circuitry.

Description: This credit card-sized, lightweight handheld electronic calculator has an aluminum case, plastic keys and display cover, a plastic circuit board, and various metal circuitry. In addition to an array of ten digit keys, a decimal point key, and a total key, it has a column of four arithmetic function keys immediately to the right of the digit keys, and a column with a percentage key and three memory keys on the far right. The on/off switch is above the keyboard and the AC (all clear) and clear keys are left of the digit keys. The eight-digit liquid crystal display is above and to the left of the keyboard. A mark below it reads: CASIO- MINI CARD (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) LC-78. A mark on the back reads: CASIO-MINI CARD (/) BM 1.5V x 2 (DC) 0.0006W (/) CASIO COMPUTER CO., LTD. (/) LC-78 MADE IN JAPAN.; A screw on the right side of the back holds it to the front. Unscrewing it reveals the circuitry and a space for two squat cylindrical batteries. A sticker on the inside of the back of the case reads: 4595189. A mark on the chip reads: B6.; According to an October, 1978, advertisement in the Los Angeles Times, the Casio LC78 was regularly priced at $29.99 and then on sale for $26.99. A December, 1978, advertisement in the same newspaper is entitled “For someone you love who loves being accurate: the math machines.” It describes several calculators, including the LC78. It gives a price of $29.99. By June 1980, the Washington Post lists a sale price for the Mini Card of $14.99.; References:; Los Angeles Times, October 18, 1978, p. F12.; Los Angeles Times, December 10, 1978, p. A26.; Washington Post, June 13, 1980, p. A29.
Location: Currently not on view

date made: 1978-1980

maker: Casio Computer Company

ID Number: 1986.0988.023
catalog number: 1986.0988.023
accession number: 1986.0988

This handheld electronic calculator is designed for scientific work. It has an array of digit keys with a decimal point key, keys for the four arithmetic functions, a clear entry/clear key, and an equals/constant key.

Description: This handheld electronic calculator is designed for scientific work. It has an array of digit keys with a decimal point key, keys for the four arithmetic functions, a clear entry/clear key, and an equals/constant key. Pushing down a function key allow one to use the digit keys to find trigonometric and inverse trigonometric functions in either degrees or radians. Other keys are converted by the function key to give square roots, natural logs, exponents, pi, and the inverse of a number. Still others perform vaious memory functions. A convert key transforms results from scientific notation to floating point notation or vice versa.; Text on the keyboard reads: aPF MARK 50 SCIENTIFIC CALCULATOR (/) LOG X = LN X + 2.30259.; A hole for the adapter is at the back, as well as a compartment for a battery. The calculator presently has no battery. The lid of the compartment is on the back. A mark on the inside of it reads: JAPAN (/) 0101641. A sticker attached to the back reads in part: aPF MARK 50 (/) OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS. It also reads in part: Use only Model 710 of 751S adaptor (optional) (/) to operate on A.C. (/) Model No. MARK-50 Serial No. J-44134 (/) MADE IN U.S.A. The back has four rubber feet.; The vacuum fluorescent display is behind the keyboard. It has two digits for the exponent, five for the mantissa, and two for the sign (one each for the exponent and the mantissa).; The APF Mark 50 calculator was advertised in the Los Angeles Times on June 8, 1975, as "New!" and "Ultra advanced!" It then sold for $59.95. According to a June 11, 1975, advertisement in the New York Times, the APF Mark 50 had originally sold for $89.95 and was then on sale for $40.00. An October 22, 1975, sale advertisement lists a price of $35. Similarly, a January 4, 1976, advertisement in the Chicago Tribune gives a price of $34.99. A September 16, 1979, advertisement in the Washington Post lists the model as selling for $9.99.; References:; Los Angeles Times, June 8, 1975, p. T19.; New York Times, June 11, 1975, p. 6.; New York Times, October 22, 1975, p. 14.; Chicago Tribune, January 4, 1976, p. 12.; Washington Post, September 16, 1979, p. K5.
Location: Currently not on view

date made: ca 1975

maker: APF Electronics

ID Number: 1986.0988.170
catalog number: 1986.0988.170
accession number: 1986.0988

This handheld electronic calculator comes in a checkbook and is designed to assist in balancing checking accounts. It has a total of thirty-one plastic keys. On the left side are ten digit keys, a clear entry/clear key, a decimal point key, and four arithmetic function keys.

Description: This handheld electronic calculator comes in a checkbook and is designed to assist in balancing checking accounts. It has a total of thirty-one plastic keys. On the left side are ten digit keys, a clear entry/clear key, a decimal point key, and four arithmetic function keys. At the center are a % key, a total key, an off key, an on key, and a DB key. On the right is a row of keys for a checking account for entering checks and deposits, and finding balances. A second row of three keys is for indicating charges, payments, and balances in a charge account. A third row of keys for a second charge account. At the bottom right corner is a grand total key.; Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit LCD display. To the right of it are three brightly colored dots. Text to the left reads: NSC National Semiconductor 103A.; The back of the calculator is riveted to the calculator, so marks there were not recorded. A mark on the circuit board reads: NS-103B-1 (/) A=5 (/) B=10.; Text on the inside of the checkbook reads: MADE IN TAIWAN. The checkbook also includes space for a pen.; Compare 1986.0988.227 and 1986.0988.336.; References:; Frank Macias, “Calculating Friends: Delegate That Everyday Balancing Act to These Little Guys with Big Brains,” Los Angeles Times, November 19, 1978, p. O64.; [Advertisement], Washington Post, February 13, 1981, p. A41. On sale for $29.95, regularly $34.95.

date made: 1978-1981

maker: National Semiconductor Corporation

ID Number: 1986.0988.148
catalog number: 1986.0988.148
accession number: 1986.0988

This handheld electronic calculator has a case in two shades of brown and an array of twenty rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, and four arithmetic function keys.

Description: This handheld electronic calculator has a case in two shades of brown and an array of twenty rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, and four arithmetic function keys. The leftmost column of keys includes %, square root, clear, and clear entry keys. The on/off switch is at the top of the keyboard. Behind this is an eight-digit vacuum fluorescent display. A mark above this reads: Radio Shack. A power jack is on the back edge.; The back of the calculator has a compartment for two AA batteries. Below this is a sticker that reads in part:; CAT. NO 65-610 (/) MODEL EC-231 (/) Radio Shack A DIVISION OF TANDY CORPORATION (/) DC 3V(“AA” CELL X 2) (/) FOR 120V AC OPERATION (/) USE ADAPTER 14-854 (/) 11467. It also reads: 8A6 (/) JAPAN.; Compare 1986.0988.040 (Radio Shack EC-231) and 1986.0988.46 (Radio Shack EC-380).; Reference:; Radio Shack, A Tandy Company, 1977 Catalog No. 276 , p. 152, accessed September 22, 2014, at radioshackcatalogs.com. The price listed is $10.95.
Location: Currently not on view

date made: 1977

maker: Tandy Corporation

ID Number: 1986.0988.040
catalog number: 1986.0988.040
accession number: 1986.0988

This handheld electronic calculator has a black- and silver-colored plastic and metal case with an array of twenty-one square plastic keys.

Description: This handheld electronic calculator has a black- and silver-colored plastic and metal case with an array of twenty-one square plastic keys. These include ten digit keys and a decimal point key (white) as well as four arithmetic function keys, a total key, a clear key, a clear entry key, and a percentage key (turquoise). The square root and change sign keys in the topmost row are orange. Right of these, a mark scratched on the case reads: UNISONIC-830A. Right of this is an on/off switch. Behind is an eight-digit green vacuum fluorescent display. A power jack is on the back edge.; A paper sticker on the back gives calculation examples. It reads in part: 830A. It also reads: SERIAL NO. (/) 004991 (/) MADE IN JAPAN. Below this is a compartment for four 1.5V (AAA) batteries.; Compare 1986.0988.114 (a Unisonic 811-A). That calculator lacks the square root and change sign keys.; No references found.
Location: Currently not on view

date made: ca 1977

maker: Unisonic

ID Number: 1986.0988.113
accession number: 1986.0988
catalog number: 1986.0988.113

This handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case that is black in front and cream-colored on the edges and back.

Description: This handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case that is black in front and cream-colored on the edges and back. The keyboard has an array of square plastic keys, including ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, and four keys for arithmetic functions that are to the right of the digit keys. Across the top of the keyboard are AC (all clear), C (clear entry), square root, and percentage keys.; Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit display. Text behind this reads: CASIO personal-I (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR. The on/off switch is at the top of the left side, and the socket for a power adapter is along the top edge at the left.; A battery compartment at the top of the back would hold two AA batteries. A sticker inside the compartment reads: 4409774. Text below the compartment reads: CASIO personal-I (/) BATTERY SUPPLY 1.5Vx2 (/) or use AC ADAPTOR AD-2S (/) 0.2W (/) H802 MADE IN JAPAN (/) BM CASIO COMPUTER CO. LTD.; Advertisements for the Casio Personal-I calculator appeared in the Chicago Tribune and the Los Angeles Times during 1976 and 1977. The calculator cost $9.95 initially, with sale prices as low as $8.90. Ball and Flamm also date the calculator to about 1976.; References:; Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 52.; Chicago Tribune, June 29, 1976, p. 4.; Los Angeles Times, September 9, 1976, p. N3.; Los Angeles Times, March 17, 1977, p. T4.
Location: Currently not on view

date made: 1976-1977

maker: Casio Computer Company

ID Number: 1986.0988.024
catalog number: 1986.0988.024
accession number: 1986.0988

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

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 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

This relatively inexpensive handheld electronic calculator has an array of eighteen rounded rectangular keys, labeled on the keyboard. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a clear entry/clear key, four arithmetic function keys, a % key, and a total key.

Description: This relatively inexpensive handheld electronic calculator has an array of eighteen rounded rectangular keys, labeled on the keyboard. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a clear entry/clear key, four arithmetic function keys, a % key, and a total key. A mark next to the top two keys reads: RS. The eight-digit red LED display is behind the keyboard. A mark behind it reads: Radio Shack. A jack for a power supply is on the back edge. The on/off switch is on the left side.; The back of the calculator has a compartment for a nine-volt battery. A sticker on the inside of this compartment reads: 20313D30-02. The calculator has four rubber discs that serve as feet. A sticker on the back reads in part: EC-220 Calculator (/) Catalog No. 65-604. Further text reads: RADIO SHACK A TANDY CORPORATION COMPANY (/) FORT WORTH, TEXAS 76107. Further text reads: Assembled in Mexico. Another mark reads: Ser. No. (/) 267484.; Compare Rockwell 8R (1986.0988.012).; Reference:; Radio Shack, A Tandy Company, 1976 Electronics Catalog , p. 116, accessed September 22, 2014, at .radioshackcatalogs.com. Calculator has a list price of $16.95.
Location: Currently not on view

date made: 1976

maker: Tandy Corporation

ID Number: 1986.0988.038
catalog number: 1986.0988.038
accession number: 1986.0988

This handheld electronic scientific calculator has a metal and plastic case and an array of twenty-six rectangular plastic keys. The ten digit keys and decimal point key are white. They can take on a different meaning if the orange F key is pushed.

Description: This handheld electronic scientific calculator has a metal and plastic case and an array of twenty-six rectangular plastic keys. The ten digit keys and decimal point key are white. They can take on a different meaning if the orange F key is pushed. The calculator can perform basic arithmetic; compute trigonometric and inverse trigonometric functions; and compute powers, exponents, natural logarithms, common logarithms, inverses, and square roots. It also has memory keys and a key for pi. To the right of the F key are radian/degree and on/off switches. A mark above this reads: Unisonic 799.; Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit green vacuum fluorescent display. This display also could show a five-digit mantissa and two-digit exponent (with signs for both).; A power jack is on the top edge.; The back of the calculator has a sticker describing advanced problem solving. It reads in part: 799-A. It also reads in part: SERIAL NO. (/) 030944 (/) MADE IN JAPAN. Below this is a compartment for four AA batteries.; Compare 1986.0988.116 (Unisonic 796).; References:; John F. Free, “Now There’s a Personal Calculator for Every Purpose,” Popular Science, 206 #2, February, 1975, pp. 78–81, 136–137. The Unisonic 799 is listed as selling for $99.; [Advertisement], Hartford Courant, June 13, 1976, p. 15M. Unisonic 799 on sale for $26.88.
Location: Currently not on view

date made: ca 1975

maker: Unisonic

ID Number: 1986.0988.115
accession number: 1986.0988
catalog number: 1986.0988.115

APF Electronics	Addison-Wesley	Berkey-Keystone Division
Bomark International	Bowmar/Ali	Brother International
Calfax	Canon	Cartron
Casio Computer	Coleco	Commodore
Commodore Japan	Compex	Corvus Corporation
Craig Corporation	Dataking, Inc.	Digitrex
Dynamic Instrument	Eiko Business Machines	Enterprex
Fitness Now, Inc.	General Instruments	Hanimex
Hewlett-Packard	Inventa Electronics	Invicta Plastics, Ltd.
J.C. Penney	Jefferson Electric	Keystone
Kings Point Corporation	Litronix	Litton Industries
Lloyd's Electronics	Macmillan Company	Matsushita Co., Ltd.
Michigan Council of Teachers of Mathematics	Monteverdi	Montgomery Ward
National Semiconductor	Nobility	John B. Priser
Radofin	Rapid Data Systems	Remington Rand Inc.
Rockwell International	Sanyo Electric Company	Sears, Roebuck and Co.
Sharp Corporation	Sinclair Radionics Ltd.	Sperry-Univac Computer Systems
Summit International	Tandy Corporation	T-A Vertriebs-GmbH
Teal Industries	TecXon	Teledyne Water Pik, Inc.
Texas Instruments	Tokyo Electronic Application Laboratory Ltd.	Tokyo Shibaura Electric Company
Toshiba Corporation	Toyo	Tyrom
Unisonic	Universal Data Machine	Victor Comptometer Corporation
Western Auto Supply	Zayre Discount	Zykkor

Index

Texas Instruments TI-2500 (Datamath) Handheld Electronic Calculator

Commodore Minuteman 2 Handheld Electronic Calculator

Casio Personal Mini Handheld Electronic Calculator

Bowmar MX55 Handheld Electronic Calculator

Bowmar MX35 Handheld Electronic Calculator

Unitrex CB-8SL Handheld Electronic Calculator

Commodore MM2PM Handheld Electronic Calculator

Bowmar 90911 Handheld Electronic Calculator

Newsweek LC 788 Light Powered Handheld Electronic Calculator

Texas Instruments TI-1000 Handheld Electronic Calculator

Commodore GL-997R Handheld Electronic Calculator

Unitrex Mini Handy 80R Handheld Electronic Calculator

Sharp EL-8110 Handheld Electronic Calculator

Casio Mini Card LC-78 Handheld Electronic Calculator

APF Mark 50 Handheld Electronic Calculator

National Semiconductor 103A Handheld Electronic Calculator

Radio Shack EC-231 Handheld Electronic Calculator

Unisonic 830-A Handheld Electronic Calculator

Casio Personal-I Handheld Electronic Calculator - Model H-802

Coleco Digits Handheld Electronic Game

Sharp EL-5805 Handheld Electronic Calculator

Unitrex 95SL Handheld Electronic Calculator

Radio Shack EC-220 Handheld Electronic Calculator

Unisonic 799 Handheld Electronic Calculator