TI-5050M Desktop Electronic Calculator

Description:

This compact, light desktop printing electronic calculator has an array of nine light gray digit keys at the center, with a zero bar and decimal point key below this. On the left are clear, percentage, division, multiplication, and equals keys. On the right are total, #/S, subtraction, and addition keys. Above the digit keys are memory, F/A, and arrow keys. Behind the keys is a paper tape to print entries and results on special thermosensitive paper. This is the only display of entries and results.

A mark behind the printer reads: TI-5050M. A mark at the front reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. A mark on the bottom reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator (/) MODEL TI-5050M (/) SERIAL NO. (/) 9418428 MTA5078 (/) ASSEMBLED IN USA. Below this is a list of patent numbers that range from 3,819,921 to 4,014,013. The dates of these patents range from 1974 to 1977.

Ball and Flamm indicate that the TI-5050M was available in 1976. In 1977 the calculator reportedly sold for $149.95. In 1980, it was advertised as costing $79.95. The second part of the serial number suggests a 1978 date.

Compare 1987.0487.026.

References:

Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, Calif.: Wilson/Barnett Publishing, 1997, p. 158.

Hyla Clark and Larry Barandes, “Desktop Calculators That Print Their Results,” Popular Mechanics, vol. 147 #4, April, 1977, pp. 187–189.

[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, January 12, 1980, p. D4.

Date Made: 1978

Maker: Texas Instruments

Location: Currently not on view

Place Made: United States

Subject: Business

Subject:

See more items in: Medicine and Science: Computers, Computers & Business Machines, Desktop Electronic Calculators

Exhibition:

Exhibition Location:

Credit Line: Gift of John B. Priser

Data Source: National Museum of American History

Id Number: 1986.0988.075Catalog Number: 1986.0988.075Accession Number: 1986.0988

Object Name: electronic calculatorOther Terms: electronic calculator; Desktop

Physical Description: plastic (case; keys material)metal (screws material)paper (tape material)Measurements: overall: 2 13/16 in x 3 1/2 in x 8 1/2 in; 7.112 cm x 8.89 cm x 21.59 cm

Guid: http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/ng49ca746a1-3589-704b-e053-15f76fa0b4fa

Record Id: nmah_334489

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