TI-5050M Desktop Electronic Calculator

TI-5050M Desktop Electronic Calculator

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Description
This compact, light desktop printing electronic calculator has an array of nine light gray digit keys at the center, with a zero bar and decimal point key below this. On the left are clear, percentage, division, multiplication, and equals keys. On the right are total, #/S, subtraction, and addition keys. Above the digit keys are memory, F/A, and arrow keys. Behind the keys is a paper tape to print entries and results on special thermosensitive paper. This is the only display of entries and results.
A mark behind the printer reads: TI-5050M. A mark at the front reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. A mark on the bottom reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator (/) MODEL TI-5050M (/) SERIAL NO. (/) 9418428 MTA5078 (/) ASSEMBLED IN USA. Below this is a list of patent numbers that range from 3,819,921 to 4,014,013. The dates of these patents range from 1974 to 1977.
Ball and Flamm indicate that the TI-5050M was available in 1976. In 1977 the calculator reportedly sold for $149.95. In 1980, it was advertised as costing $79.95. The second part of the serial number suggests a 1978 date.
Compare 1987.0487.026.
References:
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, Calif.: Wilson/Barnett Publishing, 1997, p. 158.
Hyla Clark and Larry Barandes, “Desktop Calculators That Print Their Results,” Popular Mechanics, vol. 147 #4, April, 1977, pp. 187–189.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, January 12, 1980, p. D4.
Location
Currently not on view
Object Name
electronic calculator
Other Terms
electronic calculator; Desktop
date made
1978
maker
Texas Instruments
place made
United States
Physical Description
plastic (case; keys material)
metal (screws material)
paper (tape material)
Measurements
overall: 2 13/16 in x 3 1/2 in x 8 1/2 in; 7.112 cm x 8.89 cm x 21.59 cm
ID Number
1986.0988.075
catalog number
1986.0988.075
accession number
1986.0988
Credit Line
Gift of John B. Priser
subject
Business
See more items in
Medicine and Science: Computers
Computers & Business Machines
Desktop Electronic Calculators
Data Source
National Museum of American History
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