Index

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
This unusually thin handheld electronic calculator has an aluminum case.
Description
This unusually thin handheld electronic calculator has an aluminum case. The array of twenty-two gray and white rounded plastic rectangular buttons includes ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four keys for arithmetic functions, a percentage key, a square root key, three memory keys, and a clear key. The on/off switch is between the keyboard and the eight-digit green fluorescent display. A mark below the display reads: CE COMPEX (/) ST-10. A mark below the keys reads: SUPER THIN (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR. The text printed on the back is largely worn away. The outlet for a recharger is at the bottom right.
Unscrewing a screw in the back makes it possible to change two large squat batteries. (This example has no batteries and no recharger.) A component taped to the back of one circuit board is marked in part: DELTA (/) DC. A mark on the display reads: itron FG94B1 (/) JAPAN JC.
A May 26, 1977 advertisement in the Los Angeles Times indicates that the Compex ST-10 sold for $14.97. This included both a wallet carrying case and the battery recharger.
According to the Datamath Calculator Museum website, Compex calculators were a product of Kinpo Electronics, Incorporated, a firm established in Taiwan by 1973.
References:
Datamath Calculator Museum, http://www.datamath.org/.
Los Angeles Times, May 26, 1977, p. A14.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1977
maker
Compex
ID Number
1986.0988.147
catalog number
1986.0988.147
accession number
1986.0988
This programmable scientific calculator, introduced in 1977, is more powerful than the TI 57 and less so than the TI 59, which were introduced at the same time.
Description
This programmable scientific calculator, introduced in 1977, is more powerful than the TI 57 and less so than the TI 59, which were introduced at the same time. It has a black plastic case and an array of forty-five rectangular plastic keys, most of which can assume a dual function. The calculator could be operated manually by pressing keys. It could run a variety of preprogrammed routines from a module inserted in a compartment in the back of the case. Programs could also be entered using a set of keys and stored in one of ten locations (denoted by the letters A through E and A’ through E’). Fuller instructions for programming are given in a detailed manual that accompanied the calculator (for an example, see 1990.3166.01).
A mark below the keyboard reads: TI Programmable 58 (/) Solid State Software. Behind the keyboard is a silver-colored space to hold labels relating to programs on a programming module. Behind this is a ten-digit display (it may also show five digits and a two-digit positive or negative exponent). An on/off key is at the back and a jack for a power supply is on the right side.
A mark on the back of the calculator reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator (/) SERIAL NO. (/) 0095974 1378ACH (/) ASSEMBLED IN HOLLAND. Below this is a compartment for a battery pack. The lid is labeled: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) BATTERY PACK BP-1A. Below this is a compartment for a program module. The module inside is labeled: MASTER (/) LIBRARY (/) MODULE (/) -1-.
The calculator has a black zippered case with a belt loop.
Compare 1987.0435.04 and 2007.0179.01. (both examples of the TI Programmable 58C).
References:
“Power of Its Pocket Calculators Increased by Texas Instruments,” New York Times, May 25, 1977, p. 89. Suggested list price of new Programmable 58 to be $124.95.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, December 10, 1977, p. E3. Programmable 58 in stock, holiday sale price $99.95.
Eli Maor, “A Summer Course with the TI57 Programmable Calculator,” Mathematics Teacher, 73 #2 (February 1980), pp. 99-106. Describes two experimental summer courses, one for students eight to eleven years old and the other for students twelve to fifteen, that used TI Programmable 58 calculators.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1978
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1987.0435.03
accession number
1987.0435
catalog number
1987.0435.03
This is an example of the first model of a scientific calculator marketed by Texas Instruments. The handheld electronic calculator has a black and ivory-colored plastic case with an array of twenty-three plastic keys.
Description
This is an example of the first model of a scientific calculator marketed by Texas Instruments. The handheld electronic calculator has a black and ivory-colored plastic case with an array of twenty-three plastic keys. Twenty-one of these are square, the 0 and the total keys are rectangular. In addition to ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, and four arithmetic function keys, the calculator has a reciprocal key, a square key, a square root key, a change sign key, an enter exponent key, a clear key, and a clear display key. Text above the keyboard, just below the display and to the left, reads: SR10. Behind the keyboard is a 12-digit LED display. Numbers larger than eight digits are displayed in scientific notation. A mark behind the display reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. An on/off switch is right and slightly above this.
The back edge of the calculator has a jack for a recharger/adapter. A sticker on the back gives extensive instructions. It also gives the serial number SR10 275812.
Unscrewing screws near the top and bottom of the back reveals the workings of the calculator. It has a total of five chips. The largest of these is marked TMS 0120 NC (/) C7333. This is a TMS0120 chip, manufactured in mid-1973. Also in the case is space for three AA nickel-cadmium batteries.
The leather zippered case has both a loop and a hook for attaching the calculator to a belt. It also holds an instruction pamphlet entitled Texas Instruments electronic slide rule calculator SR-10, copyrighted 1973. A warranty registration on the inside of the back page indicates these instructions were originally sold with an SR-10 calculator with serial number 170334, purchased on September 27, 1973.
Texas Instruments described the SR-10 as an “electronic slide rule calculator,” hence the “SR” in the name. The first version of the device, introduced in 1972, did not have the mark SR-10 on the keyboard. The second version (introduced 1973) and the third (introduced 1975) did. This is an example of the first version. According to Ball & Flamm, it initially sold for $149.95.
Compare 1986.0988.351, 1986.0988.354, and 1986.0988.356.
References:
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 153.
The online Datamath Museum includes versions of the SR-10 from 1972, 1973, and 1975.
date made
1972
Date made
1973
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.354
catalog number
1986.0988.354
accession number
1986.0988
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
This compact scientific calculator has twenty rectangular plastic keys, each of which can take on two meanings. Keys are marked C (clear), +/- (change sign), EEX, and F (function or shift).
Description
This compact scientific calculator has twenty rectangular plastic keys, each of which can take on two meanings. Keys are marked C (clear), +/- (change sign), EEX, and F (function or shift). In addition there are ten digit keys, four arithmetic functions keys, a decimal point key, and a total key. These may take on functional values of inverse, squares, "CONV", "CF", trigonometric and inverse trigonometric functions, exponents, powers, storage, logarithms, square roots, recall, pi, left and right parentheses, and summation. The on/off switch and the radian/degree switch are at the top of the keyboard.
Toward the back is a nine-digit LED display. A sticker behind it reads: Kings Point SC-11.
The power jack is on the back edge of the calculator. The back has a battery compartment and a sticker that reads in part: MODEL SC-11 (/) Made in Korea. It also reads Numbe [illegible] 0850. The black plastic carrying case is stamped: MADE IN KOREA.
Compare Kings Point scientific calculators 1986.0988.011, 1986.0988.298, 1986.0988.299, and 1986.0988.214.
No advertisements found. The calculator.org website gives a date of introduction of 1975. However, this model is not mentioned in advertisements from that year for other Kings Point calculators.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1977
maker
Kings Point Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.214
catalog number
1986.0988.214
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld electronic calculator has a metal case with plastic trim and an array of twenty-three rectangular plastic keys with rounded corners.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a metal case with plastic trim and an array of twenty-three rectangular plastic keys with rounded corners. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a change sign key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a percentage key, a clear key, a clear entry key, and three memory keys. To the left in the top row of keys is an on/off switch. Behind this is an eight-digit liquid crystal display. Text above this reads: TEAL LC811.
The back edge of the calculator has the cover for a compartment that would hold two silver oxide batteries.
A sticker on the back of the calculator reads in part: TEAL LC811 (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR. It also reads in part: SERIAL NO. 153744 (/) TEAL INDUSTRIES, INC. TORRANCE, CALIF. 90502 (/) MADE IN JAPAN.
The calculator has a black plastic sleeve that serves as a carrying case, and a leaflet with instructions.
TEAL calculators were made in Japan by Tokyo Electronic Application Laboratory Ltd.
References:
[Advertisement], Washington Post, July 4, 1977, p. A8. Teal LC811 regularly costs $24.95, on sale for $19.95.
Teal Industries, Inc., Operating Instructions TEAL LC811 Super Thin Electronic Calculator, Torrance, CA (no date).
In 1978 Teal would introduce its Photon solar calculator, which had not only a liquid crystal display but was solar powered. See [Advertisement], Popular Science, vol. 213, #2, August 1978, p. 171.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1977
distributor
Teal Industries
maker
Tokyo Electronic Application Laboratory Ltd.
ID Number
1987.0435.26
accession number
1987.0435
catalog number
1987.0435.26
Electronic calculators were frequently advertised in March and April as aids to Americans computing personal income taxes. Federal taxes on personal income had been legalized in the United States by the passage of the Sixteenth Amendment to the US Constitution in 1913.
Description
Electronic calculators were frequently advertised in March and April as aids to Americans computing personal income taxes. Federal taxes on personal income had been legalized in the United States by the passage of the Sixteenth Amendment to the US Constitution in 1913. A form for calculating these taxes known as the 1040 was introduced soon thereafter, and was widely known by American workers by the 1970s. Hence the name of this calculator.
This handheld electronic calculator has a metal and plastic case with an array of twenty-six rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, four memory keys, a square root key, a percentage key, a change sign key, an exchange key, a clear key, and a clear entry key. The keys are the same as those on the Unisonic 1040, although they are arranged slightly differently. Right of the top two keys is an on/off switch. A mark above this reads: Unisonic 1040. Behind this is an eight-digit green fluorescent display.
A power jack is along the back edge.
A sticker on the back gives calculation examples. A mark on it reads: 1040-AT. Another mark reads: SERIAL NO. (/) 353519 (/) MADE IN JAPAN. Below this is a compartment for four AAA batteries.
Compare five examples of the Unisonic 1040: 1986.0988.110 (the 1040), 1986.0988.291 (the 1040-1), 1986.0988.292 (the 1040-AT), 1986.0988.109 (the 1040-C), and 1986.0988.108 (the 1040-C). The keys are not identical.
References:
For a timeline of historical events relating to personal income taxes, see the website of the Internal Revenue Service at www.irs.gov.
[Advertisement], Morning Herald [from Hagerstown, Maryland], November 28, 1975, p. 49. Selling Unisonic 1040 for $22.96.
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, September 1, 1977; p. I2. Unisonic 1040 selling for $10.96, regularly $13.96.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1975
maker
Unisonic
ID Number
1986.0988.292
catalog number
1986.0988.292
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld electronic calculator has a tan and black plastic case and twenty-five 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 tan and black plastic case and twenty-five rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, and four memory keys. The top row of keys has an off key, an on key, a clear entry/clear key, a square root key, and a % key. Behind the keyboard is a gray LCD display. A label at the back reads: NSC National Semiconductor (/) 836.
A mark molded into the back of the case reads: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) RATING: DC 3V (/) USE PENLIGHT BATTERY 1.5V x2. Another mark there reads: MADE IN TAIWAN.
Pushing down a lever on the back edge of the calculator allows one to open the case to change the batteries (the object presently has no batteries). A sticker on the circuit board reads: PASSED 46. There is no provision for a recharger or power adapter.
No advertisements found.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1980s
maker
National Semiconductor Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.233
catalog number
1986.0988.233
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld programmable scientific calculator has an array of thirty-five plastic keys. Most of them can take on four different meanings.
Description
This handheld programmable scientific calculator has an array of thirty-five plastic keys. Most of them can take on four different meanings. One is indicated in white atop the key, one (often a letter) in white to the lower right of the key on the keyboard, one in orange to the upper left of the key on the keyboard and one in blue on the upper right of the key on the keyboard. The functions of the calculator are described in detail in the accompanying manual.
The LCD display behind the keyboard. Results were calculated to twelve-digit precision and displayed either as common numbers or in scientific notation.
Marks above the display read: 32SII and: RPN SCIENTIFIC. A mark above this reads: hp (/) HEWLETT (/) PACKARD.
A compartment at the top of the back holds three button cell batteries. A mark below it reads: SINGAPORE 3406S89420 (/) CE 91 [copyright symbol] HEWLETT-PACKARD COMPANY 1987. The serial number indicates a date of manufacture of February (sixth week) of 1994 (thirty-four years from 1960). A note on the title page of the manual indicates that that the object was purchased October 13, 1994, for $62.95 (including shipping). According to Mier-Jedrezejowicz, the HP-32SII was introduced in 1991 and still in production at least as late as 1995.
Accompanying the calculator is HP32SII RPN Scientific Calculator Owner’s Manual. This is an example of the fourth edition, published in 1993.
The calculator has a black plastic sleeve. A mark on it reads: hp.
This example of the calculator was owned by Tom Simkin, Curator of Volcanology in the Department of Mineral Sciences at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History.
References:
Accession file.
W.A.C. Mier-Jedrzejowicz, A Guide to HP Handheld Calculators and Computers , Tustin, California: Wilson/Burnett Publishing, 1997, pp. 89–90, 95–96, 133.
Accession file.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1994
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
2014.0260.02
accession number
2014.0260
catalog number
2014.0260.02
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
This handheld electronic calculator has a tan plastic case and twenty-three rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a clear entry/clear key, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, four memory keys, a % key, and a square root key.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a tan plastic case and twenty-three rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a clear entry/clear key, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, four memory keys, a % key, and a square root key. Left of the top row of keys is an on/off switch. A mark above it reads: 835. A mark to the right of this mark reads: NOVUS.
Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit LED display. A jack for an adapter is on the left side. The back of the calculator has a compartment for a battery.
Compare to the National Semiconductor 835 (1988.0988.229) and the National Semiconductor 835A (1986.0988.230). National Semiconductor made Novus calculators.
Reference:
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, April 17, 1976, p. C5. Novus 835 listed as on sale for $15.95. Among the least expensive of the Novus calculators listed.
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, June 13, 1976, p. S8. Novus 835 listed as regularly priced at $13.88, on sale for $9.88.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, April 13, 1978, p. SF_A10. Novus 835 listed as regularly priced at $7.99, on sale for $5.88.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1976-1978
maker
National Semiconductor Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.276
catalog number
1986.0988.276
accession number
1986.0988
This programmable handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and thirty sloping rectangular plastic keys. The model was introduced in July 1979 and sold through 1983.
Description
This programmable handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and thirty sloping rectangular plastic keys. The model was introduced in July 1979 and sold through 1983. Most keys take on different meanings if the gold "f" shift key, the blue "g" shift key or the black "h" key is pressed. The calculator has limited programming capabilities. It also has “continuous memory,” which allows limited storage of programs when the calculator is turned off. The calculator featured solve and integrate functions not found on previous calculators.
Behind the keyboard are an on/off switch, a program/run switch, and an LED display. A mark on the front edge reads: hp HEWLETT • PACKARD 34C.
The socket for the battery adapter is along the top edge. The battery compartment is at the top of the back. The back also has four rubber feet. Text on the back reads: SERIAL NO. (/) 2252S33344. Another mark reads: MADE IN (/) SINGAPORE. The first four digits of the serial number indicate that the calculator was made in the 52d week of 1982.
The calculator has a black zippered case with a belt loop. A mark on it reads: hp. It also has a power adapter. A mark on it reads in part: 2213 (/) INPUT (/) 90-120V AC (/) 50-60 HZ (/) HEWLETT-PACKARD (/) 82087B (/) CLASS 2 TRANSFORMER (/) MADE IN SINGAPORE.
The following documentation accompanies the calculator:
1. The leaflet HP-34C Quick Reference Card, published in May of 1979.
2. The spiral-bound HP-34C Owner’s Handbook and Programming Guide, published in 1979 and revised in 1980.
3.A pamphlet HP-34C Applications, published in 1982.
4.A pamphlet Solving Problems with Your Hewlett-Packard Calculator, published in 1980.
This device is part of a series that included the HP-31E, the HP-32E, the HP-33E, the HP-33C, the HP-34C, the HP-37E, the HP-38E and the HP-38C. Compare 1987.0435.09 (an HP-25) and 1987.0435.11 (an HP-33E), and 1987.0435.12 (an HP-33C).
The donor of the calculator, Kim Tracy, purchased it as an engineering student. By this time, he also had access to electronic computers, but used the calculator quite heavily.
References:
W.A.C. Mier-Jedrzejowicz, A Guide to HP Handheld Calculators and Computers , Tustin, California: Wilson/Burnett Publishing, 1997, p. 60, 132.
Accession File.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1982
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
2014.0179.02
catalog number
2014.0179.02
accession number
2014.0179
This programmable scientific handheld electronic calculator was Hewlett-Packard’s third model of a handheld scientific calculator (after the HP-35 and HP-45), and its first programmable handheld calculator.
Description
This programmable scientific handheld electronic calculator was Hewlett-Packard’s third model of a handheld scientific calculator (after the HP-35 and HP-45), and its first programmable handheld calculator. Hewlett-Packard staff dubbed it a “personal computer.”
The gray plastic case holds a keyboard with thirty-five keys at the front, two switches, and a display. The keys are square or rectangular on top and slope downward at the front. Many of them may take on three meanings. One is shown on the top of the key, in black or white, one shown on the sloping front of the key in blue, and the third shown in gold behind the key on the keyboard.
The lower part of the keyboard includes data entry keys for ten digits; as well as decimal point, enter, enter exponent, and clear display keys. It also has keys for the four arithmetic operations. Pressing the R/S (run/stop) key in the bottom right corner begins program execution.
Above this set of keys are prefix keys (function, inverse function, store, recall, a second function) which are followed by other keystrokes to complete a command. Above these are five keys for programming – DSP (to format the display), GTO (go to), LBL (label), RTN (return) and SST (single step). Above this are five lettered keys that stand for user-definable functions or subroutines. Behind the keyboard are the on/off switch and a second switch that may be set for writing programs or for running them.
Behind the keyboard is a red LED display for up to ten significant digits, plus two-digit exponent and appropriate signs for both.
The HP-65 was specifically designed to assist in repeated calculations required in such disciplines as science, engineering, finance, statistics, mathematics, navigation, medicine, and surveying. Toward that end, it contained a small magnetic card reader and recorder. Users who had worked out a series of commands they wished to reuse could save the program to a magnetic card. The cards are 7.2 cm. w. x 1.1 cm. d. and made out of mylar coated with a layer of ferric oxide. Programs could have up to one hundred steps. A variety of prewritten programs were available for purchase.
The back of the calculator has an outlet for a power adapter, a battery case, and a sticker that reads in part: HEWLETT-PACKARD HP-65 USER AIDS. A sticker below this one reads: HEWLETT•PACKARD (/) SER. NO. 1608S 02068. The first four digits of the serial number indicate that the calculator was made in the eighth week (March) of 1976. The S signifies manufacture in Singapore.
The calculator has a battery charger and AC adapter, as well as a battery pack that holds three batteries (the batteries were decaying and discarded). A transparent plastic box labeled “STANDARD PAC” contains forty magnetic cards. Nineteen of these are fixed programming cards, one is for cleaning, and the remaining cards for programs by the user. The spiral-bound HP-65 Quick Reference Guide is copyrighted 1974. Also part of the object is a metal security cradle that can be taped or screwed to a desk or other stand. It also could be held via a security cord. The calculator cord (and the security cord, if it was used) were set in holes in the back of cradle and the cradle then locked with a key, making theft more difficult. The cradle is in a box with screws, tape, the security cord, and paper instructions.
The HP-65 sold for $795.
References:
Chung C. Tung, “The ‘Personal Computer’: A Fully Programmable Pocket Calculator,” Hewlett-Packard Journal, May 1974, pp. 2–7. Further articles in this issue of the journal discuss other aspects of the HP-65 calculator.
W.A.C. Mier-Jedrzejowicz, A Guide to HP Handheld Calculators and Computers , Tustin, California: Wilson/Burnett Publishing, 1997, pp. 42–44, 132.
David G. Hicks, The Museum of HP Calculators, http://www.hpmuseum.org/, accessed July, 2014.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1976
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
2011.0023.01
accession number
2011.0023
catalog number
2011.0023.01
In addition to selling calculators under the Novus name, National Semiconductor Company sold models with the same capabilities but somewhat different styling under its own name.
Description
In addition to selling calculators under the Novus name, National Semiconductor Company sold models with the same capabilities but somewhat different styling under its own name. This handheld electronic calculator has the same capabilities as the Novus Mathematician.
The calculator has a black plastic case, thirty-two rectangular plastic keys, and a plastic display cover. The function of the keys is written on the keyboard rather than being marked on the keys themselves.
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. Depressing the F key in the upper left corner of the keyboard allows two of these keys to be used as memory keys, another for entering degrees, and the fourth for entering radians.
Above these keys are an enter key and a variety of function keys, some of which also can assume more than one function. These include two memory keys, a change sign key, a pi key, a square root / square key, a log key, an exchange key, a power key, an exponent key, a natural log key, an inverse key, and keys for trigonometric and inverse trigonometric functions. A mark above the keyboard reads: Mathematician.
Problems are entered into the Mathematician using reverse Polish notation.
Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit red LED display. It has no provision for displaying results in scientific notation. A mark above the display reads: National Semiconductor. The jack for a power adapter is along the back edge and a power switch is on the left edge.
A battery compartment opens on the back of the calculator. A faint mark molded into the plastic near the top of the back reads: MADE IN MALAYSIA (/) P641. This particular example lacks both a cover for the battery compartment and any stickers identifying the model and serial number.
Compare the Novus Mathematician (1986.0988.277) and the HP-21 (1987.0435.08).
Reference:
[Advertisement], Steubenville [Ohio] Herald-Star, September 7, 1977, p. 11. National Semiconductor Mathematician is on sale for $13.88.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1975-1977
maker
National Semiconductor Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.232
catalog number
1986.0988.232
accession number
1986.0988
This is an example of a scientific calculator introduced by Texas Instruments in 1975 that offered many of the capabilities of the SR-16 calculator at a lower cost.
Description
This is an example of a scientific calculator introduced by Texas Instruments in 1975 that offered many of the capabilities of the SR-16 calculator at a lower cost. The handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case with an array of thirty-one small rectangular plastic keys. In addition to ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a change sign key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a clear display key, and a clear key, the calculator has twelve further function keys. These are for powers, reciprocals, square roots, squares, logs to the base 10, storage, recall, summation, exponents, natural logarithms, entering exponents, and pi. The meaning of the keys is indicated on the keyboard, not on the keys themselves. Text on the keyboard, above the keys and to the right, reads: SR-16 II. Behind the keyboard is a twelve-digit LED display that shows eight-digit positive and negative numbers and two-digit positive and negative exponents. A mark below the display reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. The on/off switch is right and slightly above this mark.
The calculator has a jack for a recharger/adapter along the back edge. A sticker on the back gives instructions. It also gives the serial number SR-16 II 180524. It also reads: ASSEMBLED IN USA. Above the sticker is a compartment for three batteries. A mark below the sticker reads: LTA4375.
Unscrewing four screws on the back reveals the workings of the calculator. It has a total of three chips. The largest of these is marked TMS1016NL (/) KAΔ7543. This is a TMS1016 chip, manufactured in late 1975.
The calculator comes in a dark brown plastic zippered case with belt loop.
References:
[Advertisement], New York Times, May 5, 1976, p. 10. Gives a sale price of $29.
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, October 19, 1975, p. A7. Gives price of $44.95.
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 153.
Online Datamath Museum.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1975
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.352
catalog number
1986.0988.353
accession number
1986.0988
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
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
This handheld electronic calculator has a white plastic case with twenty square plastic keys with depressions (of the Klixon type).
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a white plastic case with twenty square plastic keys with depressions (of the Klixon type). The keys include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a memory key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, a square root key, a clear key, and a clear entry key. The memory key may serve for storage or accumulation. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit red LED display. The on/off switch is right of it. A power jack is on the back edge. A tag on the front reads: Summit.
A tag on the back of the calculator gives operating instructions. It reads in part: SUMMIT INTERNATIONAL CORP. (/) Serial No. 1716 SQR 16M (/) Salt Lake City, Utah Manufactured by NCE NUCLEAR (/) made in U.S.A.
References:
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, June 21, 1973, p. N_A13. This calculator advertised as selling regularly for $199.95, on sale for $129.88.
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, September 11, 1973, p. C5. The calculator is given as having a list price of $129.95 and a sale price of $99.88.
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, February 7, 1974, p. A2. Calculator is advertised as having a list price of $129.95 and a sale price of $75.88.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1973-1974
maker
Summit International Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.280
catalog number
1986.0988.280
accession number
1986.0988
Walt Disney’s cartoon character Mickey Mouse has appeared on American consumer goods ranging from yo-yos to lunch boxes to watches to handheld electronic calculators.
Description
Walt Disney’s cartoon character Mickey Mouse has appeared on American consumer goods ranging from yo-yos to lunch boxes to watches to handheld electronic calculators. This device can be used either to do calculations or, in quiz mode, as an educational game.
It has a bright yellow plastic case with a black and white plastic cutout of Mickey Mouse on the cover. Mickey Mouse holds a sheet that reads: MICKEY (/) MOUSE’S (/) SCHOOL (/) BOOK. Opening the latch reveals a calculator with eighteen rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a clear key, four arithmetic function keys, a longer bar marked “?”, and a total key. Below these keys is a switch that may be set either at “Calc” or “Quiz.” Next to this switch is the on/off switch.
Behind the keyboard is a green fluorescent display. Above this is a green light marked “Right” and a red one marked “Wrong;” above this is a plastic cutout of the face of Mickey Mouse. A space at the top of the calculator would hold two batteries. It presently has no batteries and the cover is missing. A jack for a power adapter is on the top edge.
Next to the calculator is a space that could hold a ruler. This example has no ruler. The inside of the lid of the case – right of the calculator when it is open – hold a pad of paper with odd numbers jotted on it. A sticker below the paper on the inside of the lid reads: IN ORDER TO REFILL PAD, PLEASE NOTE, (/) PAD SIZE TO FIT INTO YOUR MICKEY MOUSE (/) NOTE BOOK WOULD BE (89x149x6m/m SIZE) (/) 007577.
The back of the case has another image of Mickey Mouse. A mark in the molded plastic near the bottom reads: MADE IN TAIWAN.
The calculator dates from between 1974, when inexpensive electronic calculators became common, and 1986, when it was given to the Smithsonian. Hence a rough date of 1980. No specific printed references to this calculator found. It resembles some Unisonic calculators.
References:
Ted Hake, Hake’s Price Guide to Character Toys, New York: Avon Books,1998, pp. 444–455.
Michael Stern, Stern’s Guide to Disney Collectibles, Paducah, N.Y.: Collector Books, 1989, pp. 10–55. This includes only materials from 1928-1938.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1980
ID Number
1986.0988.340
catalog number
1986.0988.340
accession number
1986.0988
This alphanumeric programmable graphing handheld calculator has a dark brown plastic case and an array of forty-nine rectangular plastic keys. Three of the keys are shift keys that determine the effect pressing other keys.
Description
This alphanumeric programmable graphing handheld calculator has a dark brown plastic case and an array of forty-nine rectangular plastic keys. Three of the keys are shift keys that determine the effect pressing other keys. The calculator is capable of solving and plotting a wide array of problems from arithmetic, trigonometry, algebra, statistics, and calculus. The screen is behind the keyboard. A mark behind that reads: hp HEWLETT (/) PACKARD (/) 48SX SCIENTIFIC EXPANDABLE.
An empty compartment that can hold two expansion cards is at the top of the back. Three corroding AAA batteries were removed from a compartment at the bottom and discarded. A mark above this compartment reads: MADE IN USA 3032A01521 (/) HEWLETT PACKARD 1989. The first four digits of the serial number indicate it was made in the thirty-second week of 1990. The calculator has four rubber feet.
The object was received with a zippered case and a spiral-bound instruction manual HP 48SX Scientific Expandable Owner’s Manual Volume 1. This example is Edition 3, published in May of 1990.
The calculator was used by a faculty member at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland.
Reference:
W.A.C. Mier-Jedrzejowicz, A Guide to HP Handheld Calculators and Computers , Tustin, California: Wilson/Burnett Publishing, 1997, pp. 98–99, 133.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1990
maker
Hewlett-Packard Company
ID Number
2014.0168.01
catalog number
2014.0168.01
accession number
2014.0168
This battery-operated special purpose handheld electronic calculator is designed to help in weight loss. It has an on/off switch on the front left, a button on the front right, and a blinking light between them.
Description
This battery-operated special purpose handheld electronic calculator is designed to help in weight loss. It has an on/off switch on the front left, a button on the front right, and a blinking light between them. A chart above the display gives space for listing “daily bite limits” for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Further spaces give room for checking off the meals in a week.
According to operating instructions on a sticker on the back, a diner was to turn on the device, place it near the dinner plate, and take a bite of food. He or she then pressed the black button and began chewing at the same rate as the blinking light (twenty-four blinks in twenty-two seconds). If the user was still chewing then the light stopped blinking, the next bite was to be smaller. The display recorded the number of bites taken. When it stopped blinking, the diner took another bite, repeating the process until he or she had reached the “bite limit” for the meal. Then the device was turned off and the fact that the meal had been eaten was checked.
Text at the bottom of the sticker on the back reads in part: 1977 Teledyne Water Pik, Fort Collins, CO (/) 80521 (/) Patent Pending.
References:
“Water Pik sets Countdown for Dieters,” Chicago Tribune, July 8, 1977, section 4, p. 11. Countdown product to launch the next week and sell for $20 to $30.
Marion Burros, “Push-Button Dieting,” Washington Post, November 3, 1977, p. E16, E17. Countdown system to sell for $24.95.
“Countdown – Teledyne Water Pik,” Mother Jones Magazine, vol. 3 #7, August 1978, p. 51. Notes product available.
George Lazarus, “Countdown ‘to bite off’ that fat,” Chicago Tribune, November 1, 1977, p. C13.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, June 15, 1978, p. SF11. Countdown system selling for $14.99.
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, June 7, 1978, p. G7. Countdown system regularly $19.99, on sale for $16.88.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1977
maker
Teledyne Water Pik, Inc.
ID Number
1986.0988.341
catalog number
1986.0988.341
accession number
1986.0988
This scientific handheld electronic calculator has a relatively thin black plastic case with an array of forty small rectangular black plastic keys (one key is missing on this example).
Description
This scientific handheld electronic calculator has a relatively thin black plastic case with an array of forty small rectangular black plastic keys (one key is missing on this example). These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a change sign key, a total key, and four arithmetic function keys. Further keys are for reciprocals, percentage, off, on/clear, sines, cosines, tangents, enter exponent, common logarithms, natural logarithms, powers, a constant, left parenthesis, and right parenthesis. Keys in the leftmost column may represent two functions. These are factorial or clear statistical register, square or square root, inverse function or second meaning of key, summation or removal of unwanted data points, storage or mean, recall or standard deviation, summation or a different standard deviation, and exchange or pi. The marks indicating the function of keys are on the keyboard above the keys themselves.
Text above the keys reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS TI-35 (/) Constant Memory. Behind the keyboard is an LCD display that shows eight-digit positive and negative numbers or, in scientific notation, a five-digit mantissa and two-digit exponent.
The calculator has a compartment for two very small batteries. Text on the back reads in part: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator. It also gives the serial number 3607829 and a date mark ATA5080. It also reads: ASSEMBLED IN USA.
The calculator comes in a black plastic jacket. It is part of the Slimline series of Texas Instruments calculators that feature LCD displays.
Compare 1986.0988.325 (another TI-35) and 1986.0988.087 (the Business Analyst II).
References:
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, May 19, 1979, p. SD_B8. Lists price of $22.95.
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, January 16, 1980, p. C12. Lists price of $21.99.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, September 20, 1980, p. SD_B7. Lists price of $22.95.
[Advertisement], The Atlanta Constitution, August 23, 1981, p. L15. Lists regular price of $21.89, sale price of $16.99.
[Advertisement], The Atlanta Constitution, February 7, 1982, p. O7. Lists sale price of $15.99, regular price of $17.89.
[Advertisement], Washington Post, August 11, 1983, p. C3. Lists sale price of $13.90, regular price $15.50.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, December 8, 1984, p.C8. Lists price of $19.99, regular price $25.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, April 30, 1986, p. 7C. Regular price given as $17.99, sale price $14.99.
Texas Instruments, Slimline TI 35 scientific calculator, Dallas: Texas Instruments, 1979. An example of this manual is with 1986.0988.324.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1980
maker
Texas Instruments
ID Number
1986.0988.324
catalog number
1986.0988.324
accession number
1986.0988
Some early manufacturers of electronic calculators had their beginnings as makers of photographic equipment. One of these was the Keystone Division of Berkey Photo, Inc. Keystone Camera Company traced its origins to a company founded in Boston, Massachusetts, in1910.
Description
Some early manufacturers of electronic calculators had their beginnings as makers of photographic equipment. One of these was the Keystone Division of Berkey Photo, Inc. Keystone Camera Company traced its origins to a company founded in Boston, Massachusetts, in1910. Early products included movie cameras and projectors. In 1966, Berkey Photo, Inc. acquired Keystone. By 1973, the Keystone Camera Division of Berkey, with its factory in Clifton, New Jersey, had expanded to making instant-load cameras with electronic flash. It also, from late 1972 until at least 1975, made handheld electronic calculators.
The Atlas-Rand 240 calculator resembles one of the first handheld calculators mentioned as a product of Berkey-Keystone. It has a black plastic case, a metal keyboard and trim, and eighteen plastic keys. The keys are square with circular tops. In addition to ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, and a cancel key, the calculator has a percentage key. Buttons left of the percentage key can be used to set a constant and to set the display for numbers or dollars and cents. The on/off switch is above the keys. Behind it is an eight-digit display. A mark above the keyboard reads: Atlas-Rand. Text along the front edge reads: Made in U S A 240. The socket for a power adapter as at the back edge.
A sticker on the back of the calculator gives operating instructions. It is marked at the bottom: Keystone (/) PARAMUS, NEW JERSEY 07652 SERIAL # C058728. A compartment in the back holds four batteries.
The calculator has a black plastic zippered carrying case.
Prices for this calculator range from $119.95 in 1973 down to $29.95 in 1975.
Compare 1986.0988.366.
References:
“New Products,” Chicago Tribune, July 7, 1973, p. W A13. Here the Berkey-Keystone calculator shown, which features four arithmetic functions and a percentage key, is said to cost $119.95.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, August 24, 1974, p. C4. Ad describes calculator, gives price of $49.95. Mentions credit card promotion mentioned again in 1975.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, March 1, 1975, p. D12 . Ad describes calculator. Part of text reads “Thousands of these calculators were sold in 1974 by a major oil company in a credit card promotion for $99.95.” Device on sale for $29.95.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1973-1975
maker
Keystone
ID Number
1986.0988.368
catalog number
1986.0988.368
accession number
1986.0988

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