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 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
In the second half of the 1970s, taking advantage of the introduction of liquid crystal displays, manufacturers of handheld electronic calculators designed and built ever-thinner products. In this Sharp calculator the usual keys have been replaced by a single thin membrane.
Description
In the second half of the 1970s, taking advantage of the introduction of liquid crystal displays, manufacturers of handheld electronic calculators designed and built ever-thinner products. In this Sharp calculator the usual keys have been replaced by a single thin membrane. This reduces the thickness of the calculator itself to about .16 cm (less than 1/8”). Pushing numbers on such a calculator produces no tactile sensation. To give users a sense that they indeed had entered information, the calculator could be set so that a tone sounded whenever a digit or function was entered. Pushing the section of the membrane with a musical note on it (called the sensor key) activated this part of the calculator.
The calculator has a total of twenty-six “keys” In addition to the sensor key, these include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, and three memory keys. Behind these are a % key, and a clear entry key, as well as a STR key for storing a number in the memory and a COMP key for computing conversions by multiplying the stored value by the number shown on the display. Behind these are keys for off and for on/clear. Text next to these last two keys reads: ELSI MATE (/) EL-8152 (/) STORAGE COMPUTER. Behind this is the eight-digit LCD display. Text behind this reads: SHARP.
Text on the back of the calculator reads: SHARP (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-8152. It also reads: SHARP CORPORATION MADE IN JAPAN BM. The most recent U.S. patent number listed is 3976994, a patent issued in 1976 and assigned to Sharp. A label below this reads: 07004741. The calculator ran on two squat cylindrical silver oxide batteries.
The calculator has a dark blue cloth carrying case. Text on the front of it reads: SHARP. This case, in turn, fits into a cardboard box with a small pamphlet. The cover of the manual reads: SHARP COMPET ELSI MATE (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-8152 (/) INSTRUCTION MANUAL. Also included loose in the manual is a warning not to carry the calculator in a back pocket. The sleeve for the box reads: SHARP (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-8152 A.
An example of the Sharp EL-8152 was shown in a 1994 exhibition on modern Japanese design, held at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Sharp membrane calculators in the collections include 1997.0032.01 (Sharp EL-8152 or EL-8152A), 1987.0435.13 (Sharp EL-8130A), and 1986.0988.316 (Sharp EL-8145).
References:
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, December 23, 1979, p. B1. Calculator advertised (EL-8152) said to be 1/16” thick, selling for $39.95.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, May 1, 1980, p. 17. This advertisement lists the Sharp EL-8152 calculator (not the EL-8152 A) as on sale for $32.97.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, September 4, 1980, p. B13. Sharp EL-8152 (not EL-8152 A) advertised as on sale for $39.99.
Kathryn B. Hiesinger and Felice Fischer, Japanese Design: A Survey Since 1950, Philadelphia; Philadelphia Museum of Art, 1994, p. 123.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1979-1980
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1997.0032.01
catalog number
1997.0032.01
accession number
1997.0032
As early as 1977 Sharp Corporation had combined the functions of a handheld electronic calculator, a clock telling time worldwide, and a stop watch.
Description
As early as 1977 Sharp Corporation had combined the functions of a handheld electronic calculator, a clock telling time worldwide, and a stop watch. In the late 1980s, it began to sell more elaborate “electronic organizers.” This example had a built-in calendar, schedule, listing for telephone numbers, memo pad, world clock, local clock, and calculator. It also was possible to purchase additional “IC cards” which expanded the memory, offered language translation, and provided a dictionary and thesaurus. The device also could be linked to a printer or a microcomputer.
The organizer has a black plastic case that opens to reveal a keyboard on the right and a display with a space for additional cards on the left. A mark at the center of the left side reads: SHARP OZ-7200 (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR WIZARD. A mark above the display reads: 64KB. A mark on the bottom reads: OZ-7200 SHARP CORPORATION (/) MADE IN JAPAN (/) Lic. U.S. Pat. 4117542. This patent, filed by Judah Klausner and Robert Hotto, both of New York, New York, was granted in 1978. The serial number of this calculator is: 9703190X.
Inside the cardboard box holding the calculator is also an operation manual. It has a copyright date of 1989.
This example was purchased by the Information Age exhibition at the National Museum of American History in April 1990. It was not used. This product was a successor to the Sharp PA-7000 organizer, first sold in 1987.
References:
[Advertisement], New York Times, May 2, 1990, p. A2. Sharp OZ-7200 selling for $279.98.
[Advertisement}, Chicago Tribune, July 10, 1991, p. D19. Sharp OZ-7200 on sale for $159.00.
Kathryn B. Hiesinger and Felice Fischer, Japanese Design: A Survey Since 1950, Philadelphia; Philadelphia Museum of Art, 1994, p. 176.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1990
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1991.0081.01
catalog number
1991.0081.01
accession number
1991.0081
This handheld electronic calculator has a black and white plastic case and an array of twenty rounded rectangular plastic keys.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a black and white plastic case and an array of twenty rounded rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a % key, four arithmetic function keys, a clear key, a clear entry key, a square root key, and a total key. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit purple LED display that seems to have a ninth character space. The on/off switch is behind the display on the right. A tag left of this reads: SHARP ELSI MATE (/) EL-104.
At the top of the back is a compartment for a nine-volt battery. Text below this reads: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-104. Further text reads: SHARP CORPORATION (/) MADE IN JAPAN BM. A paper sticker below the mark gives a list of U.S., Canadian, Swedish and Australian patents protecting the device. The latest American patent is 3621219, issued in 1971 and initially assigned to Hayakawa.
The calculator has a leather or imitation leather carrying case with a metal snap and plastic edging. This case also has a hook so that it could be worn over a belt.
Compare 1986.0988.133 (Sharp Elsimate EL-206).
References:
The online MyCalc database dates this calculator to about 1976. The online Calculator.org database dates it to 1976. No advertisements found.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1976
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.315
catalog number
1986.0988.315
accession number
1986.0988
In the second half of the 1970s, taking advantage of the introduction of liquid crystal displays, manufacturers of handheld electronic calculators designed and built ever-thinner products.
Description
In the second half of the 1970s, taking advantage of the introduction of liquid crystal displays, manufacturers of handheld electronic calculators designed and built ever-thinner products. This is an early example of a Sharp calculator in which the usual keys had been replaced by a single thin plastic membrane. This reduces the thickness of the calculator itself to about .5 cm (about 1/4”). Pushing numbers on such a calculator produces no tactile sensation. To give users a sense that they indeed had entered information, the calculator could be set so that a tone sounded whenever a digit or function was entered. Pushing the section of the membrane with a musical note on it (called the sensor key) activated this part of the calculator. The calculator has a total of twenty-two “keys” In addition to the sensor key, these include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, four memory keys, a square root key, a % key, and a clear entry key. Behind these are keys for off and on/clear. Text next to these two keys reads: SHARP (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) ELSI MATE EL-8130A. Behind this is the eight-digit LCD display.
Text on the back of the calculator reads: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR EL-8130A. It also reads: NO. 87547779 BM (/) SHARP CORPORATION MADE IN JAPAN. The most recent U.S. patent number listed is 3976994, a patent issued in 1976 and assigned to Sharp.
The calculator has a black leather case. Text on the front of it reads: SHARP (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR.
Sharp membrane calculators in the collections include 1997.0032.01 (Sharp EL-8152 or EL-8152A), 1987.0435.13 (Sharp EL-8130A), and 1986.0988.316 (Sharp EL-8145).
Reference:
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, December 8, 1977, p. WS6. New model EL-8130 calculator selling for $29.95 (no advertisement found for EL-8130A).
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1977-1978
maker
Sharp Corporation
ID Number
1987.0435.13
catalog number
1987.0435.13
accession number
1987.0435
This 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, and four memory keys.
Description
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, and four memory keys. In addition there are two parenthesis keys, a square root key, a percentage key, a clear/clear entry key, an inverse key, and a squaring key. On the right side next to the two topmost keys is the on/off switch. A mark above this reads: Unisonic 1148.
A jack for a power supply is along the back edge.
A sticker on the back of the calculator gives calculation examples. It is marked in part: SERIAL NO. (/) 001202 (/) MADE IN JAPAN. A further mark reads: 1148-A. Below this is a compartment for three AA batteries.
No advertisements found.
Reference:
The BECALC vintage calculator website dates the Unisonic 1148 calculator to 1979.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1979
maker
Unisonic
ID Number
1986.0988.290
catalog number
1986.0988.290
accession number
1986.0988
This slim handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case with silver-colored brushed metal on the front and is black in back. It has an array of ten digit keys with a decimal point key and a percentage key.
Description
This slim handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case with silver-colored brushed metal on the front and is black in back. It has an array of ten digit keys with a decimal point key and a percentage key. To the left of these keys are four keys for arithmetic functions and a total key. Above them are a square root key, a clear key, and a clear indicator (clear entry) key.
Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit fluorescent display. A mark behind it reads: Canon (/) Palmtronic 8s. The on/off switch is in the upper left corner and the socket for an adapter is along the top edge.
The back has a compartment for two batteries. A sticker at the base of this reads: 549667. Another sticker below the compartment on the back of the calculator reads in part: Canon (/) Palmtronic LD-8s (/) BM D.C. 3V = 0.2W (/) CANON INC. It then describes three possible power supplies. These are two penlight batteries, a Canon NiCd battery pack-4, or a Canon AC Adapter AD-2.
The calculator fits in a black plastic folder marked: Canon (/) Palmtronic. This holds an instruction leaflet written in English, German, French, and Spanish. A warranty with numeric code 0676B150 fits with the sleeve in a cardboard box. A mark on the box reads: Canon (/) Palmtronic LD-8s. A mark on the back of it reads: CANON INC. (/) JAPAN/JAPON.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1977
maker
Canon, Inc.
ID Number
1986.0988.030
catalog number
1986.0988.030
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and twenty-five plastic keys. The ten digit keys and decimal point key are white, the subtraction key is red, and the remaining keys are blue. The keys above the digit keys are clear/clear entry, EX, and percentage.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and twenty-five plastic keys. The ten digit keys and decimal point key are white, the subtraction key is red, and the remaining keys are blue. The keys above the digit keys are clear/clear entry, EX, and percentage. Right of the digit keys are five memory keys, four function keys, and a change sign key. The total key is next to the decimal point key in the middle of the bottom row. The on/off switch is above the keyboard on the right, and the eight-digit vacuum fluorescent display is behind this. A mark on the display cover reads: MEMORY. A mark on a metal insert above this reads: CRAIG.
The socket for a power adapter is on the top edge. A compartment for four AA batteries is at the base of the back. The “OPERATION OUTLINE” on a metal tag above this describes operating procedures. Text near the bottom of this tag reads: CRAIG 4516 SERIAL NUMBER 044900 (/) CRAIG CORPORATION COMPTON, CALIFORNIA 90220 MADE IN JAPAN.
Unscrewing a screw on the top edge of the calculator allows one to remove the top of the case.
References:
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 64.
Los Angeles Times, February 20, 1975, p. WS9. Advertised as on sale for $39.95.
Los Angeles Times, January 30, 1976, p.B17A. Advertised as having a reduced price of $27.50, down from a regular price of $49.95, as part of an inventory clearance sale.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1975-1976
ID Number
1986.0988.310
catalog number
1986.0988.310
accession number
1986.0988
This sturdy handheld electronic calculator has an array of ten round digit keys and a decimal point key. It also has four arithmetic function keys, a total key, a percentage key, a C key and a Cl key. Behind the keys is an off/on/K switch.
Description
This sturdy handheld electronic calculator has an array of ten round digit keys and a decimal point key. It also has four arithmetic function keys, a total key, a percentage key, a C key and a Cl key. Behind the keys is an off/on/K switch. A mark behind this reads: brother PROCAL 408AY. Behind this is an eight-digit vacuum fluorescent display. A connection for a power supply is on the side at the top.
Four batteries would fit in a compartment in the back. A sticker above this reads: brother ELECTRONIC (/) CALCULATOR (/) MODEL 408AY USE MODEL 4086 (/) 6V DC 0.8W (/) NO B4013688 (/) BROTHER INDUSTRIES, LTD. MADE IN JAPAN.
Ball and Flamm give a date of about 1973 for this calculator. An advertisement for what was said to be the Brother 408AY appeared in the Los Angeles Times in October 1974, but this shows a different calculator. A December, 1974, advertisement in the Chicago Tribune lists the Brother 408AY as a calculator that cost over $50.00 and was on sale for $39.00.
References:
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector's Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin CA: Wilson/Barnett,1997, pp. 39–40.
Chicago Tribune, December 13, 1974, p. a6.
Los Angeles Times, October 19, 1974, p. C4.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1973
maker
Brother International Corporation
ID Number
1986.0988.273
catalog number
1986.0988.273
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld electronic calculator has a dark brown and cream-colored plastic case and a metal keyboard.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a dark brown and cream-colored plastic case and a metal keyboard. In addition to ten digit keys, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, and a total key, it has all clear, clear, square root, percentage, sign change, and three memory keys. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit vacuum fluorescent display. A mark behind this reads: CASIO MEMORY A-1 ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR. The on/off switch is on the left side and a socket for an adapter is on the top edge at the left.
At the top of the back of the calculator is a compartment for a single battery. A sticker inside the compartment reads: 0237833. A mark on the back of the case reads: CASIO MEMORY A-1 (/) BATTERY SUPPLY 1.5Vx1 (/) or use AC ADAPTOR AD-1S (/) 0.12W (/) H-814 MADE IN JAPAN (/) BM CASIO COMPUTER CO. LTD.
Unscrewing a screw at the base allows one to fold open the case. This reveals a variety of electronic components, including a chip made by Hitachi and marked: HD3783 (/) 6G 41.
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.
Compare 1986.0988.026. Both calculators have the same number on the chip.
The website of Casio Corporation suggests that this calculator was introduced in 1974. However, the first advertisement found is from a March, 1977, issue of the Chicago Tribune. This lists the Casio Memory A-1 as on sale for $12.95. A March, 1978, advertisement in the same newspaper gives the same price.
References:
Casio Corporation website, with its museum.
Chicago Tribune, March 2, 1977, p. B8.
Chicago Tribune, March 19, 1978, p. J4.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1977-1978
maker
Casio Computer Company
ID Number
1986.0988.331
catalog number
1986.0988.331
accession number
1986.0988
According to the Toko, Inc., website, Toko was established in Tokyo in 1955 as a manufacturer of components for portable radios with the name TOKO Radio Coil Laboratories.
Description
According to the Toko, Inc., website, Toko was established in Tokyo in 1955 as a manufacturer of components for portable radios with the name TOKO Radio Coil Laboratories. The firm continues to manufacture electronic components.
This relatively large handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case and eighteen square keys with rounded corners. 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 on the right of the top row of keys can be set to having the constant (K) on or off. Behind this is an on/off switch. Test left of it reads: TOKO MINI-8. Behind this is an eight-digit green vacuum fluorescent display. A jack for a power adapter is on the right side.
At the base of the back is a compartment for four AA batteries. A mark on the cover reads: JAPAN. A sticker above the compartment gives “CALCULATION EXAMPLES.” Text at the base of the sticker reads: TD-802D SERIAL No. 834181. The back is held to the front by four metal screws. Unscrewing these, one finds a Texas Instruments chip marked: TMS0101ANCΔ (/) 7351.
No advertisements found.
References:
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 161.
Toko, Inc., website, accessed June 3, 2015.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1973
ID Number
1986.0988.082
catalog number
1986.0988.082
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld electronic calculator has a dark brown and cream-colored plastic case and a metal keyboard.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a dark brown and cream-colored plastic case and a metal keyboard. In addition to ten digit keys, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, and a total key, it has all clear, clear, square root, percentage, sign change, and three memory keys. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit vacuum fluorescent display. A mark behind this reads: CASIO MEMORY A-1 ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR. The on/off switch is on the left side and a socket for an adapter is on the top edge at the left.
At the top of the back of the calculator is a compartment for a single battery. A sticker inside the compartment reads: 1600683. On this example of the calculator, the compartment lacks a cover. A mark on the back of the case reads: CASIO MEMORY A-1 (/) BATTERY SUPPLY 1.5Vx1 (/) or use AC ADAPTOR AD-1S (/) 0.12W (/) H-814 MADE IN JAPAN (/) BM CASIO COMPUTER CO. LTD.
Unscrewing a screw at the base allows one to fold open the case. This reveals a variety of electronic components, including a chip made by Hitachi and marked: HD3783 (/) 6G 41.
Compare 1986.0988.331. Both calculators have the same number on the chip.
The web site of Casio Corporation suggests that this calculator was introduced in 1974. However, the first advertisement found is from a March 1977, issue of the Chicago Tribune. This lists the Casio Memory A-1 as on sale for $12.95. A March 1978, advertisement in the same newspaper gives the same price.
References:
Casio Corporation website, with its museum.
Chicago Tribune, March 2, 1977, p. B8.
Chicago Tribune, March 19, 1978, p. J4.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1976-1977
maker
Casio Computer Company
ID Number
1986.0988.026
catalog number
1986.0988.026
accession number
1986.0988
This handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case.
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case. In addition to ten digit keys, it has a decimal point key and a percentage key, an on/off switch, and yellow clear and clear indicator keys above the digit keys, and blue arithmetic function keys and a total key on the right. Behind these is an eight-digit green fluorescent display. A mark above the display reads: Canon Palmtronic 8 mini.
At the bottom of the back is a compartment for two AA batteries. A sticker on the inside of the lid of the compartment reads: 376297. There is no outlet for an adapter. Text on the back reads: Canon (/) Palmtronic 8 Mini (/) BM D.C. 5 V 0.3W (/) CANON, INC. (/) JAPAN (/) USE PENLIGHT BATTERY 1.5Vx2.
According to Ball and Flamm, this calculator was advertised in 1976 as selling for $8.95.
Reference:
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 45.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1976
maker
Canon, Inc.
ID Number
1986.0988.029
catalog number
1986.0988.029
accession number
1986.0988
The dark brown plastic case of this handheld electronic calculator has a metal inset around the display. The calculator has twenty-five rectangular plastic keys.
Description
The dark brown plastic case of this handheld electronic calculator has a metal inset around the display. The calculator has twenty-five rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, a clear key, a % key, a square root key, a change sign key, and three memory keys. The top row of keys also has the on and off keys. Behind this is an eight-digit LCD display. Text behind this reads: SANYO (/) CX 1231. There is no provision for a power adapter.
The back has a compartment for two AA batteries. Text molded in the case reads in part: SANYO CX 1231 (/) INPUT: DC 3V (TWO “AA” SIZE BATTERIES) (/) POWER: DC 0.00012W (/) SANYO ELECTRIC CO., LTD. BM (/) MADE IN JAPAN / FABRIQUE AU JAPON. A sticker below this reads: No 0086865.
Reference:
[Advertisment], Los Angeles Times, October 31, 1980, p. N8. Calculator on sale for $7.00.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
ca 1980
maker
Sanyo Electric Company
ID Number
1986.0988.180
accession number
1986.0988
catalog number
1986.0988.180
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
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 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 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 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

Our collection database is a work in progress. We may update this record based on further research and review. Learn more about our approach to sharing our collection online.

If you would like to know how you can use content on this page, see the Smithsonian's Terms of Use. If you need to request an image for publication or other use, please visit Rights and Reproductions.