Computers & Business Machines
Imagine the loss, 100 years from now, if museums hadn't begun preserving the artifacts of the computer age. The last few decades offer proof positive of why museums must collect continuously—to document technological and social transformations already underway.
The museum's collections contain mainframes, minicomputers, microcomputers, and handheld devices. Computers range from the pioneering ENIAC to microcomputers like the Altair and the Apple I. A Cray2 supercomputer is part of the collections, along with one of the towers of IBM's Deep Blue, the computer that defeated reigning champion Garry Kasparov in a chess match in 1997. Computer components and peripherals, games, software, manuals, and other documents are part of the collections. Some of the instruments of business include adding machines, calculators, typewriters, dictating machines, fax machines, cash registers, and photocopiers
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Bohn Instant Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This hefty turquoise handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case, keyboard, keys, and screen.It fits in a black plastic, cloth-lined, zippered sleeve. It has an array of ten digit keys with a decimal point key, four keys for arithmetic operations, a total key right of these, a clear key, and a percentage key. A red button above the 7 key apparently allows one to switch between floating point arithmetic and dollars and cents. Above the keys are an on/off switch and a switch between the AC adapter and the battery. (The example presently has no adapter and no battery.) Behind this is an eight-digit green-tube display. A mark behind the display reads: Bohn Instant. On the back is a two-prong plug for an adapter. The back has two plastic feet and, at the base, a compartment that would hold five batteries.
- A silver-colored sticker on the back reads: BOHN REX-ROTARY (/) MODEL-BOHN INSTANT (/) VOLTAGE-7.5 VOLTS, D, C, POWER-1.5 V. A. (/) SERIAL NO. 3715751-A (/) SERVICE CENTERS (/)475 S. DEAN ST. (/) ENGLEWOOD N. J. 07631. A second service center has address: 121 PALM ST. (/) ALHAMBRA CAL 91801. A mark on the back reads: MADE IN TAIWAN.
- The Bohn Duplicator Company had distributed Danish adding machines and Rex-Rotary duplicating machines. For an example of one of the adding machines, see 1995.0018.01.
- The date of about 1972 for the Bohn Instant is given by Ball and Flamm.
- Reference:
- Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector's Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 34.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1972
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.367
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.367
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Unisonic XL-101 Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This lightweight, non-printing electronic calculator has an array of nine digit keys at the center with a zero bar and a decimal point key below these. On the right are arithmetic and clear keys. On the left are percentage, percent change, gross profit margin, item count, clear memory, recall memory, memory subtraction, and memory addition keys. A switch between a floating and a fixed decimal point, a constant switch, and a power switch are above the keyboard. Behind is a ten-digit vacuum fluorescent diode display. A cabinet has space for two D batteries. A hole for a cord is at the back, but there is no cord.
- A mark on the front of the machine reads: Unisonic XL-101. A label on the back reads in part: Unisonic XL-101 (/) 10-DIGIT DESK-TOP (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR. It also reads in part: SERIAL NO. 055588 (/)MADE IN TAIWAN. The bottom of the keyboard is stamped: 53 3 24. The interior of the calculator has a single circuit board with a mark on the bottom that reads: 5212232. A mark on the top of the base of the keyboard reads: CA-24 A-1. The chip by Texas Instruments has a mark that reads: TMC1073NL (/) KSLP 814. The “7814” indicates that the chip was made in the 14th week of 1978.
- The device has a black plastic cover marked: Unisonic.
- Compare the Radio Shack EC-2001 (1986.0998.007) and Lloyd’s Accumatic 680 (1986.0988.006). Radio Shack advertised the EC-2001 in American newspapers as early as 1978 and as late as 1985. Ads for the Unisonic XL-101 appeared in 1979 and 1980. Prices for the Unisonic XL-101 ranged from $19.70 to $29.95
- References:
- [advertisement], Boston Globe,February 25, 1979, p. 23.
- [advertisement], Washington Post, March 13, 1980, p. A16.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1978
- maker
- Unisonic Products Corporation
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.004
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.004
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Sears 711.58260 Handheld Electronic Calculator (Sears LC82)
- Description
- This very compact handheld electronic calculator has a metal case with plastic trim and twenty-two rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, three memory keys, a square root key, a % key, and a clear entry/clear key. Above the keys and to the left is an on/off switch. Text above this reads: Sears LC 82. Above this is an eight-digit LCD display.
- Text printed on the back of the calculator reads in part: IN ALL CORRESPONDENCE REGARDING (/) THIS ARTICLE ALWAYS MENTION (/) MODEL (/) NUMBER 711.58260. Further text reads: SERIAL NUMBER (/) #2504337 MADE IN TAIWAN.
- The calculator fits in a brown plastic wallet.
- Compare 1986.0988.363.
- References:
- Sears, Roebuck and Co., Sears Spring Summer 1979 [Catalog], 1979, p. 575. Model LC 82 calculator on sale for $16.49.
- Sears, Roebuck and Co., Sears Fall Winter 1979 [Catalog], 1979, p. 1273. Model LC 82 calculator on sale for $16.49. Not in 1978 or 1980 catalog.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- 1979
- maker
- Sears, Roebuck and Co.
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.364
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.364
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Bohn Omnitrex SR1 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This somewhat hefty handheld electronic calculator is an improvement on the Bohn Instant and the Bohn Omnitrex. It has ten digit keys, a decimal point key, keys for the four arithmetic functions, an equals or total key, and a clear key. In addition, it has a memory key, a square root/reciprocal key, a square/percentage key, and a position of the clear key that clears only the entry. The on/off switch is to the left of the digit keys and the key for shifting the function of the function keys is next to the top row of function keys. Behind the keyboard is an unusually large eight-digit fluorescent display. A mark between the keyboard and the display reads: Bohn omnitrex SR1. A connection for an adapter is on the right side at the top.
- The back of the calculator has a compartment to hold five batteries. At present it has no batteries and no cover. It has four plastic feet. A sticker attached to the back reads: BOHN REX ROTARY (/) MODEL BOHN OMNITREX SR1 (/) VOLTAGE-7.5 VOLTS D. C. POWER: 1.5 V. A. (/) SERIAL NO. 3708649-I (SERVICE CENTERS (/) 475 S. DEAN ST. (/) ENGLEWOOD N. J. 07631 (/) MADE IN TAIWAN. The address of the second service center, also indicated on the sticker, is: 121 S. PALM ST. (/) ALHAMBRA CAL. 91801.
- The Bohn Duplicator Company had distributed Danish adding machines and Rex-Rotary duplicating machines. For an example of one of the adding machines, see 1995.0018.01.
- The date of about for the Bohn SR1 is given by Ball and Flamm, who indicate that it sold for $99.95. A January 1974 advertisement in the Chicago Tribune indicates that the calculator had a list price of $129.95 and was on sale for $79.88.
- Reference:
- Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector's Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 34.
- Chicago Tribune, January 31, 1974, p. 18.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1974
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.154
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.154
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Lloyd's E680-3 Desktop Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This lightweight, non-printing electronic calculator has an array of nine digit keys at the center with a zero bar and a decimal point key below these. On the right are arithmetic and clear keys. On the left are percentage, percent change, gross profit margin, item count, clear memory, recall memory, memory subtraction, and memory addition keys. A switch between a floating and a fixed decimal point, a constant switch, and a power switch are above the keyboard. Behind is a ten-digit vacuum fluorescent diode display. A cabinet has space for two D batteries. A jack for a cord is at the back, but there is no cord.
- A mark on the front of the machine reads: Lloyd’s Accumatic 680. A label on the back reads in part: LLOYD’S (/) Model No. E680-3 (/) Series: 260A. It also reads in part MADE IN TAIWAN. The interior of the calculator has a single circuit board which has a mark on the bottom that reads: 5212232. A mark on the top of the circuit board reads: CA2486-03 K1. The chip by Texas Instruments has a mark that reads: TMC1073NL (/) KSLP 7736. The “7736” indicates that the chip was made in the 36th week of 1977.
- Compare the Radio Shack EC-2001 (1986.0998.007) and Unisonic XL-101 (1986.0988.004). Radio Shack advertised the EC-2001 in American newspapers as early as 1978 and as late as 1985. For the power supply for this calculator, see 1986.0988.377.
- References:
- [advertisement], Boston Globe, December 5, 1978, p. 15.
- [advertisement], New York Times, March 21, 1985, p. A22.
- These advertisements are for the Radio Shack version of the calculator.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1978
- maker
- Lloyd's Electronics
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.006
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.006
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
National Semiconductor 836 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- 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
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Fitness 3 Micro Computer Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator fits in the top of a black leather case the size and shape of a checkbook. A space for checks is below. The calculator has a metal case with plastic trim and display window. It has twenty-four rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a clear entry/clear key, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, and a total key. In addition there is an on key, an off key, and a "DS" key. The orange percentage key is marked: CALORIC (/) RATIO. On the far right are three additional orange keys, marked 1, 2, and 3. Marks surrounding these keys read: FITNESS 3 TM. A mark above the keyboard reads: FITNESS 3TM NOW, INC. Also above the keyboard is an eight-digit liquid crystal display.
- A mark on the back right corner of the keyboard reads: FITNESS 3 MICRO COMPUTER (/) MADE IN TAIWAN. A mark on the lower portion of the case reads: MADE IN TAIWAN.
- On July 13, 1981, Hoffmann-La Roche Inc. of Nutley, New Jersey applied for a trademark for the phrase FITNESS 3. The trademark record states that the term was first used in commerce in March 1981. The application was abandoned January 31, 1984.
- Reference:
- U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, Trademark Electronic Search System, Serial Number 73318674.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1981
- maker
- Fitness Now, Inc.
- ID Number
- 1987.0435.31
- accession number
- 1987.0435
- catalog number
- 1987.0435.31
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Technico LC 707M Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- Inventa Electronics Corporation of Taipei, Taiwan, filed for the trademark Technico, as used for electronic calculators, in August 1981, having used the term in commerce since 1975. The trademark was published in 1983 and abandoned in 1988. This example of the calculator was sold under the Technico trademark.
- The credit card-sized calculator has a metal case with plastic trim and an array of twenty-four rectangular plastic keys. This includes ten digit keys, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, a percentage key, and a square root key. Left of these are an on key, an off key, three memory keys, and a clear entry/clear key. Behind the keys to the left is an eight-digit LCD display. Text right of this reads: Technico (/) LC 707M. Text on the back of the calculator reads in part: MADE IN TAIWAN.
- References:
- [Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, November 4, 1978, p. D9. A very similar Technico calculator, called the LC707 but said to have memory, advertised as on sale for $19.95.
- [Advertisement], Washington Post, December 11, 1981, p. A20. Technico LC 707M advertised as on sale for $9.95.
- [Advertisement], Washington Post, January 15, 1982, p. B2. Technico LC 707M advertised as on sale for $8.95.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1982
- maker
- Inventa Electronics Corporation
- ID Number
- 1987.0435.20
- accession number
- 1987.0435
- catalog number
- 1987.0435.20
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
National Semiconductor 102C Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This credit card-sized calculator has a metal case with twenty-three rectangular plastic keys and plastic trim. The keys include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, and four memory keys. In addition, the calculator has a clear entry/clear key, a square root key, and a % key. Above the keys on the left is the eight-digit LCD display. A mark below it reads: NSC National Semiconductor 102C. Left of the display are three circles as well as on and off buttons.
- Text at the bottom of the back reads: NATIONAL SEMICONDUCTOR CORPORATION MIDVALE, UTAH 84047 MADE IN TAIWAN.
- Compare the National Semiconductor 199 (1986.0988.309), a calculator of similar size. This model has a square root key.
- Reference:
- [Advertisement], Elyria Chronicle-Telegram, April 10, 1980, p. 9. Calculator price listed as $12.47.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1980
- maker
- National Semiconductor Corporation
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.308
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.308
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Tecxon LC-86 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator is credit card-sized in a black plastic folder. It has a metal case with plastic trim and twenty-two rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, three memory keys, a percentage key, a square root key and a clear key. An off button is above the keyboard on the right. Text next to it reads: TecXon (/) MINI CARD LC-86. To the left, above two keys in the lower row, is a list of conversion factors for common and metric units. Behind is an eight-digit liquid crystal display. Text on the back reads: MADE IN TAIWAN (/) REP. OF CHINA. A mark on the inside of the case reads: MADE IN TAIWAN.
- According to records of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, TecXon Electronics Company, Ltd., of Taipei, Taiwan, filed to register the trademark TecXon, as applied to telephones and calculators, in June 1983. They had been using the term in commerce since June 1982. The trademark was granted in November 1984. This calculator has no indication of a trademark on it.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1982
- maker
- TecXon Electronics Company, Ltd.
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.199
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.199
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Enterprex Model 100M Desktop Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This compact desktop electronic calculator has an ivory-colored plastic case, a brown plastic keyboard, twenty-two square plastic keys, and three rectangular plastic bars. In addition to nine digit keys, a zero bar and a decimal point key, there are bars for addition/sum and subtraction/total, keys for multiplication and division, and keys for exchange and clear/clear entry. To the left of the digit keys are six memory keys, a percentage key, and a Δ% key. Behind the keyboard are three switches and a ten-digit vacuum fluorescent display. A mark in front of the keyboard reads: ENTERPREX 100M.
- The back of the calculator has a compartment for two large batteries. Below this is an indentation for a sticker, but the sticker has come loose. It reads in part: 10-DIGIT DESK-TOP (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) POWER SOURCE: TWO "D" CELL (/) BATTERIES. DC 3VOLT. It also reads in part: SERIAL NO. 64597 (/) PN 943014 MADE IN TAIWAN.
- References:
- [Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, November 5, 1978, p. M7. Enterprex 100M advertised as on sale for $20.00.
- [Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, February 24, 1979, p. C2. Enterprex 100M advertised as on sale for $29.95, with a list price of $40.00
- Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 70.
- BE CALC Vintage Electronic Calculators website (now www.calcuseum.com). This shows an example of the calculator, with a sticker indicating that it was made in Hong Kong.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1978
- distributor
- Enterprex
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.201
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.201
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Lloyd's EH-9036 Handheld Electronic Calculator (Lloyd's Accumatic 30)
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator has a brown and tan plastic case with nineteen square plastic keys and a brown metal keyboard. In addition to ten digit keys and a decimal point key, it has four arithmetic function keys, a total key, a percentage key, a clear key, and a clear entry key. Behind the keyboard a mark reads: LLOYD’S. Behind this is an eight-digit vacuum fluorescent display. A mark on the display cover reads: ACCUMATIC 30. The on/off switch and a jack for a power cord are on the back edge.
- A battery compartment is at the base of the back. A sticker above it reads in part: LLOYD’S 6 V D.C. 250mW (/) MODEL EH-9036 SERIES 260D. It then gives several examples of operations on the calculator. Text below this reads: SERIAL NO. 5F-100891 (/) MADE IN TAIWAN (/) REPUBLIC OF CHINA.
- Compare to 1986.0988.219. For further information about Lloyd’s Electronics, Inc., see 1986.0988.218.
- Reference:
- [Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, April 13, 1975, p. L20. A calculator very similar to this one, marked Lloyd’s, is advertised as selling for $17.78, with regular price of $19.78. It is supposed to have an automatic constant, which the object doesn’t.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1975
- maker
- Lloyd's Electronics
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.122
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.122
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Unisonic LC 270 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator has a metal case and twenty-four rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, three memory keys, a percentage key, a square root key, an off key, an on/clear key, and a clear entry key. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit LCD display. A mark below the keyboard reads: Unisonic LC 270.
- A mark printed on the back reads: Unisonic LC 270 (/) 1.5V BATTERY x 2 PCS. (/) EVERREADY BATTERY NO. 189 (/) SERIAL NO. 5673107 (/) MADE IN TAIWAN R. O. C.
- For information about Unisonic, see 1986.0988.371.
- References:
- [Advertisement], Fort Hood Sentinel, December 17, 1981, p. 3A. Unisonic LC270 and Unisonic LC222 calculators advertised as on sale for $7.88, regularly $12.95.
- [Advertisement], Tonawanda NY Evening News, April 14, 1982, p. 5. Both Unisonic LC270 and Unisonic LC222 calculators on sale for $6.96, regularly $8.99.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1981
- maker
- Unisonic
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.160
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.160
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Unisonic LC 222 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This credit card-sized calculator has a metal case and twenty-three rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, and four memory keys. The bottom row of keys also has an off key, an on/clear entry/clear key, and a percentage key. A mark above the keyboard reads: Unisonic (/) LC 222. Left of this is an eight-digit liquid crystal display. A mark on the back of the calculator reads: Unisonic LC222C MADE IN TAIWAN. Unscrewing two screws in the back makes it possible to change the two tiny batteries (no batteries in this example), According to the instructions, one should “use quality alkaline batteries such as Maxell [sic] SR 1130. You can expect to get about 1000 hours of continuous operating time for batteries.” A mark on the circuit board reads: LSIT6014 (/) LCD 3001.
- The calculator has a cloth case that also includes the instruction leaflet. It has the title Unisonic LC-222 Ultra Thin LCD Calculator.
- Compare 1987.0435.14.
- For information about Unisonic, see 1986.0988.371.
- References:
- Instruction leaflet.
- [Advertisement], Hartford Courant, December 7, 1980, p. Q10. LC 222 and LC 272 calculators both on sale for $8.99, regularly $11.99.
- [Advertisement]. Los Angeles Times, March 8, 1981, p. SG5. LC 222 calculator on sale for $8.90, regularly $10.90. Neither of these advertisements mentions the LC 222C.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1981
- maker
- Unisonic
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.322
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.322
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Mickey Mouse's School Book Handheld Electronic Calculator and Electronic Game
- 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
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
APF Mark 1910 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This compact handheld electronic calculator, advertised as a "mini-calculator," has twenty-three square plastic keys and two buttons. These include ten white plastic digit keys; a white decimal point key; keys for the four arithmetic functions, percentage, and square roots; a clear entry/clear key; an equals key; and four memory keys. There are separate on and off buttons. Behind the keyboard is a liquid crystal display, advertised as showing eight digits. A mark below the keyboard reads: aPF MARK 1910.
- Space for two small 1.5 volt batteries is at the bottom of the back. A mark printed on the back reads: MARK 1910 (/) LIQUID CRYSTAL CALCULATOR (/) RATING: DC 3V 0.0002W (/) (1.5v BATTERY x 2) (/) APF ELECTRONICS INC> (/) NEW YORK, N. Y. 10022 (/) SERIAL NO: 2038842 (/) TAIWAN. The actual serial number is on a paper sticker on top of the rest of the mark.
- The case opens at the bottom to reveal two Union Carbide batteries and a green breadboard. A mark on the chip at the top of the breadboard reads: C3. A mark on the bottom right of the breadboard reads: LC4100.
- According to an October 1978 advertisement in the Los Angeles Times, the APF Mark 1910 regularly sold for $15.99 and was on sale for $12.88. A November, 1978, advertisement in the Chicago Tribune gives a regular price of $14.99 and a sale price of $11.88. Both advertisements show the calculator in a "billfold case." This example lacks such a case.
- References:
- Chicago Tribune, November 12, 1978, p. U12.
- Los Angeles Times, October 12, 1978, p. CS7.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1978
- maker
- APF Electronics
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.337
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.337
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Sears 711.58270 Handheld Electronic Calculator (Sears 5827)
- Description
- This compact handheld electronic calculator has a metal case with plastic trim and twenty-five rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, four memory keys, a recall key, a change sign key, a % key, and a clear entry/clear key. Above the keys and to the left is an on/off switch. Text above this reads: Sears LC 84. Above this is an eight-digit LCD display.
- Text printed on the back of the calculator reads in part: IN ALL CORRESPONDENCE REGARDING (/) THIS ARTICLE ALWAYS MENTION (/) MODEL (/) NUMBER 711.5870. Further text reads: SERIAL NUMBER (/) #2264953 MADE IN TAIWAN.
- The calculator fits in a brown plastic wallet.
- Compare 1986.0988.364.
- References:
- [Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, September 24, 1978, p. D6. Advertised as regularly priced at $19.99, on sale for $15.99.
- [Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, December 9, 1979, p. A21. Advertised as regularly priced at $19.99, on sale for $16.99.
- [Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, September 24, 1980, p. C8. Advertised as regularly priced at $19.99, on sale for $14.99.
- Sears, Roebuck and Co., Sears Spring Summer 1979 [Catalog], 1979, p. 575. Model LC 84 calculator on sale for $19.49.
- Sears, Roebuck and Co., Sears Fall Winter 1979 [Catalog], 1979, p. 1273. Model LC 84 calculator on sale for $19.49.
- Sears, Roebuck and Co., Sears Spring Summer [Catalog], 1980, p. 1185. Model LC 84 calculator on sale for $17.49.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- 1978-1980
- maker
- Sears, Roebuck and Co.
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.363
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.363
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
KMC 7500C Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This solar-powered electronic calculator has a tan and gray plastic case and twenty-four plastic keys. Twenty-three keys are square; the addition key is rectangular. In addition to ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, and four arithmetic function keys, the calculator has three memory keys, a change sign key, a square root key, a percentage key, and an on/clear key.
- Behind the keyboard is the solar power cell. Text next to it reads: KMC 7500C. Above this is the eight-digit LCD display. It lights up and the calculator carries out calculations, but the results are not necessarily accurate. Text on the back of the calculator reads: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) POWER SOURCE SOLAR CELL (/) MADE IN TAIWAN. Unscrewing four screws makes it possible to lift off the back of the calculator. A mark on the circuit board reads: SD9-13.
- According to records of Canadian trademarks, in 1982 Kmart Canada began using the trademark KMC for calculators and other devices sold in its stores. The trademark was registered in 1984 and discontinued in 1999. The KMC mark on the calculator indicates that the trademark is registered. No such trademark, as applied to calculators, is included in the U.S. registry of trademarks. The calculator came to the museum from Canada in 1988. Hence it seems likely that the calculator was distributed by Kmart Canada and made around 1986.
- Reference:
- Web site of the Canadian Intellectual Property Office.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1986
- ID Number
- 1988.0300.01
- catalog number
- 1988.0300.01
- accession number
- 1988.0300
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
National Semiconductor 103A Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator comes in a checkbook and is designed to assist in balancing checking accounts. It has a total of thirty-one plastic keys. On the left side are ten digit keys, a clear entry/clear key, a decimal point key, and four arithmetic function keys. At the center are a % key, a total key, an off key, an on key, and a DB key. On the right is a row of keys for a checking account for entering checks and deposits, and finding balances. A second row of three keys is for indicating charges, payments, and balances in a charge account. A third row of keys for a second charge account. At the bottom right corner is a grand total key.
- Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit LCD display. To the right of it are three brightly colored dots. Text to the left reads: NSC National Semiconductor 103A.
- The back of the calculator is riveted to the calculator, so marks there were not recorded. A mark on the circuit board reads: NS-103B-1 (/) A=5 (/) B=10.
- Text on the inside of the checkbook reads: MADE IN TAIWAN. The checkbook also includes space for a pen.
- Compare 1986.0988.227 and 1986.0988.336.
- References:
- Frank Macias, “Calculating Friends: Delegate That Everyday Balancing Act to These Little Guys with Big Brains,” Los Angeles Times, November 19, 1978, p. O64.
- [Advertisement], Washington Post, February 13, 1981, p. A41. On sale for $29.95, regularly $34.95.
- date made
- 1978-1981
- maker
- National Semiconductor Corporation
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.148
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.148
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Unisonic 21-P1 Handheld Electronic Calculator and Electronic Game
- Description
- This colorful handheld electronic calculator also could be used to play the game of blackjack, with the calculator serving as the dealer and the user as a player.
- The object has a metal case with plastic trim and keys. It has an array of twenty-five oval plastic keys. Four arithmetic function keys are on the left, in a column labeled: Calc. Ten digit keys, a decimal point key, and a total key are arranged in three columns in a section labeled: Bet. Eight gaming keys are arranged in two columns labeled: Play. Above this on the right is a shuffle/clear/clear entry key. Left of it are an on/off switch and a calculator/game switch. A mark below the keyboard reads: Unisonic 21. Another mark there reads: Blackjack. Behind the keyboard is a twelve-digit display that is labeled on the left: Player. On the right it is labeled: Dealer. Text behind this reads: Dealer draws on 16.
- A sticker on the back describes the "A/C" adapter that may be used with the calculator. A jack for it is on the bottom edge. Text printed on the back gives calculation examples. One mark reads: Unisonic 21-P1. Another mark reads: SERIAL NO. (/) 078380 (/) MADE IN TAIWAN.
- Below these marks is a compartment for three UM-4 batteries.
- This calculator was actively discussed in early literature on electronic games.
- Compare 1986.0988.295 (the Unisonic 21-P1) and 1986.0988.048 (the Radio Shack EC-21).
- References:
- A copy of the instructions for the game is at the wass.net website, accessed July 2, 2015.
- “Card Counter,” Texas Monthly, 7 #7, July, 1979, p. 16. Price of Unisonic 21 varies from $20 to $30, depending on model. Image shown appears to be the desktop version of the device.
- Anne Douglas, “Game Shows Have Serious Aspects Too,” Chicago Tribune, June 18, 1977, p. 1B 11. Unisonic 21 available in both desktop and portable forms for $50 and up.
- Kris Jensen, “New 1978 Electronic Games,” Modern Mechanix, January 1978, pp. 33–43. Mentions that the Unisonic 21 is available in both desktop and portable versions.
- John Free, “Pocket Calculators for More than Math,” Popular Science, 214 #4, April 1979, p. 22, 24, 26, 29.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1977
- maker
- Unisonic
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.295
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.295
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
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