This handheld electronic calculator has a black and white plastic case and an array of twenty-five plastic keys. Twenty of these keys are square with rounded corners. They include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a % key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, clear and clear entry keys, and a square root key. The other five keys are rectangular memory keys (pushing one of these keys transfers a number into the memory).
Behind the keyboard is a green fluorescent display. Text above the display reads: SHARP EL-8131 SHARP (/) ELSI MATE / ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR. A jack for a power adapter is on the back edge and an on/off switch on the left side.
The back of the calculator has a compartment for two AA batteries. A paper sticker inside this compartment reads: 98397296. A mark below this reads in part: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-8131. It also reads in part: SHARP CORPORATION BM (/) MADE IN KOREA. Also listed on the back is U.S. patent number 3571655. This patent was granted in 1971 and assigned to Sharp.
The calculator has a black leatherette carrying pouch with a metal snap. One side of the carrying pouch has a loop so that it could be worn on a belt.
References:
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, August 14, 1977, p. H31. Sharp EL-8131 advertised as on sale for $12.95.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, November 29, 1978, p. B17. Sharp EL-8131 advertised as selling for $12.95.
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