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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Hewlett-Packard HP-55 Programmable Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- Introduced in early 1975, the HP-55 handheld electronic calculator was a less expensive alternative to the HP-65. It had no card reader or program cards, but programs of up to forty-nine steps could be entered by the user. In addition, there were eighty-six pre-programmed functions and operations.
- The lower part of the keyboard includes data entry keys for ten digits, as well as decimal point, enter, change sign, enter exponent, and clear display keys. It also has keys for the four arithmetic operations. Using alternate meanings for these keys offers extensive opportunities to convert between metric and standard units, as well as entering angles as degrees, radians or grads. Pressing the "R/S" (run/stop) key in the bottom right corner begins program execution.
- Above this set of keys are prefix keys (function, second function, store, recall) that are combined with one or two more keystrokes to complete a command. Further keys allow programming. The calculator also includes a digital timer.
- 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 switches is a red LED display for up to ten significant digits, plus two-digit exponent and appropriate signs for both. A mark along the front edge reads: hp HEWLETT•PACKARD 55.
- 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-55 INSTRUCTIONS. A sticker below this reads: HEWLETT•PACKARD (/) SER. NO. 1704S 01114. The first four digits of the serial number indicate that the calculator was made in the fourth week (January) of 1977. The S signifies manufacture in Singapore.
- In the cardboard box with the calculator are a battery pack with three batteries, a Hewlett-Packard 8200A battery charger and power adapter, and a leather, cloth-lined case. The calculator initially sold for $395.
- For related documentation received with this calculator see 1980.0813.02, 1981.0813.03, and 1980.0813.04. For other documentation see 1982.0222.05.
- References:
- W.A.C. Mier-Jedrzejowicz, A Guide to HP Handheld Calculators and Computers , Tustin, California: Wilson/Burnett Publishing, 1997, pp. 44–45, 132.
- David G. Hicks, The Museum of HP Calculators, http://www.hpmuseum.org/, accessed July 2014.
- [Advertisement], “Hewlett-Packard introduces another uncompromising calculator, the new HP-55 Programmable Scientific,” Electronics, vol. 48, #8, April 17, 1975, pp. 60-61.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- 1977
- maker
- Hewlett-Packard Company
- ID Number
- 1980.0813.01
- catalog number
- 1980.0813.01
- accession number
- 1980.0813
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Unisonic 1511L Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator has a metal and dark brown and tan plastic case and an array of twenty square plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a percentage key, a change sign key, an exchange 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 1511L.
- 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: 142588. 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.
- Compare 1986.0988.245 and 1981.0922.06 (both examples of the Unisonic 1511L).
- References:
- [Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, Jul 29, 1976, p. OC_B9. On sale for $8.99.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1976
- maker
- Unisonic
- ID Number
- 1981.0922.06
- catalog number
- 1981.0922.06
- accession number
- 1981.0922
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Texas Instruments SR-10 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- 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 on the keyboard, above the keys and to the left, reads: SR-10. Behind the keyboard is a twelve-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 794630. A small round sticker above the large sticker reads: INSPECTED (/) BY L-01.
- 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 TMS0120NC (/) C7421. This is a TMS0120 chip, manufactured in mid-1974. 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.
- 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 in 1973) and the third (introduced in 1975) did. This is an example of the second version.
- 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.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- 1974
- maker
- Texas Instruments
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.351
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.351
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Casio Memory A-1 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- 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
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Canon Palmtronic 8 Mini Handheld Electronic Calculator
- 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
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Canon LX-30 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This slim handheld electronic calculator has a cream-colored plastic case and gray synthetic rubber keys. In addition to an array of ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a percentage key, four arithmetic function keys, and a total key; it has an on/clear key, a clear indicator key, four memory keys, an off key, and a square root key. A mark behind the keyboard reads: Canon LX-30 (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR. Behind this mark is an eight-digit liquid crystal display.
- The back slips off to reveal a flat circuit plate and a space for two squat 1.5 volt batteries.
- A stamp on the back reads: Canon LX-30 (/) BM D.C.3V – 0.28mW (/) CANON INC. (/) USE BATTERY 1.5Vx2 (/) JAPAN.
- The calculator fits in a silver-colored plastic sleeve. A mark on the front and the back of the sleeve reads: Canon. This example has no instructions.
- Several web sites give a date of 1982 to1984 for this model.
- Reference:
- See the Datamath.org website.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1983
- maker
- Canon, Inc.
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.031
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.031
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Canon TP-7 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator has a cream-colored plastic case that is gray around the display. The keyboard includes ten digit keys, a decimal point key, four keys for arithmetic functions, a percentage key, clear and clear indicator (e.g. clear entry) keys, a graph printout key, a non-add key that prints figures not affecting calculations, a square root key, three keys relating to memory, and a total key. Behind the keys are four switches, as well as an all clear key depressed with a pen point after battery replacement.
- Behind this is an eight-digit display. A mark above the display reads: Canon TP-7 (/) POCKET PRINTER. Behind the display is a narrow paper tape
- Text on the back of the case reads: Canon TP-7 (/) BM. It also reads: CANON INC. It also reads: NO. 056273 JAPAN. A compartment for a bank of four AA batteries is at the bottom of the case. A socket for an AC adapter is along the top edge.
- The calculator is stored in a cardboard box with an instruction pamphlet labeled: Canon (/) POCKET PRINTER TP-7. Instructions are given in English, German, French, Italian, and Spanish. Also in the box is a warranty. A number on the back of the instructions reads: 0983B103.
- Also received as part of the object is a box of thermal roll paper for Canon calculators. It contains five rolls of paper.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1983
- maker
- Canon, Inc.
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.032
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.032
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Radio Shack EC-220 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This relatively inexpensive handheld electronic calculator has an array of eighteen rounded rectangular keys, labeled on the keyboard. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a clear entry/clear key, four arithmetic function keys, a % key, and a total key. A mark next to the top two keys reads: RS. The eight-digit red LED display is behind the keyboard. A mark behind it reads: Radio Shack. A jack for a power supply is on the back edge. The on/off switch is on the left side.
- The back of the calculator has a compartment for a nine-volt battery. A sticker on the inside of this compartment reads: 20313D30-02. The calculator has four rubber discs that serve as feet. A sticker on the back reads in part: EC-220 Calculator (/) Catalog No. 65-604. Further text reads: RADIO SHACK A TANDY CORPORATION COMPANY (/) FORT WORTH, TEXAS 76107. Further text reads: Assembled in Mexico. Another mark reads: Ser. No. (/) 267484.
- Compare Rockwell 8R (1986.0988.012).
- Reference:
- Radio Shack, A Tandy Company, 1976 Electronics Catalog , p. 116, accessed September 22, 2014, at .radioshackcatalogs.com. Calculator has a list price of $16.95.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- 1976
- maker
- Tandy Corporation
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.038
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.038
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Radio Shack EC-242 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator has a gray plastic case, a black keyboard, and twenty-two rectangular plastic keys. The meaning of the keys is written above them on the keyboard. Keys include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a clear/clear entry key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, two memory keys, an on key, and an off key. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit red LED display. Text behind this reads: Radio Shack (/) MEMORY EC-242.
- A compartment for a nine volt battery is at the top of the back. A jack for a power adapter is along the back edge. A sticker below the compartment reads: Radio Shack (/) Cat. No. : 65-617 (/) Model : EC-242 (/) DC : 9V (006P x 1) (/) For 120V AC Operation (/) Use AC Adaptor 65-731 (/) Custom Mfd. in Hong Kong for (/) RADIO SHACK. A Division of Tandy Corp. (/) 7J-207.
- Radio Shack advertised this “low-priced memory calculator” as “a real budget-master.”
- Compare 1986.0988.044 (Radio Shack EC-243).
- Reference:
- Radio Shack, A Tandy Company, 1978 Catalog No. 289, p. 146, accessed September 22, 2014, at radioshackcatalogs.com. The price listed is $8.88.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- 1978
- maker
- Tandy Corporation
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.043
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.043
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Radio Shack EC-243 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator has a plastic case in two shades of gray, a silver-colored keyboard, and twenty-three rectangular plastic keys. The meaning of the keys is written above them on the keyboard. Keys include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, and four memory keys. The top row has an on/off switch, a square root key, a % key, and a clear/clear entry key. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit green fluorescent display. Text behind this reads: Radio Shack (/) MEMORY EC-243.
- A compartment for two AA batteries is at the top of the back. A jack for a power adapter is along the back edge. A sticker below the compartment reads: Radio Shack (/) Cat. No. : 65-618 (/) Model : EC-243 (/) DC : 3V (“AA” Cell x 2) (/) For 120V AC Operation (/) Use AC Adaptor 65-735 (/) Custom Mfd. in Hong Kong for (/) RADIO SHACK. A Division of Tandy Corp. (/) 7J-208.
- The calculator has a power adapter that plugs into the back edge. It is marked: Radio Shack (/) 273-1435 (/) 3V AC Adapter.
- Compare 1986.0988.043 (Radio Shack EC-242).
- Reference:
- Radio Shack, A Tandy Company, 1978 Catalog No. 289, p. 146, accessed September 22, 2014, at radioshackcatalogs.com. The price listed is $14.95.
- Radio Shack, A Tandy Company, 1979 Catalog No. 302, p. 129, accessed September 22, 2014, at radioshackcatalogs.com. The price listed is $14.95.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- 1978-1979
- maker
- Tandy Corporation
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.044
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.044
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Radio Shack EC-267 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This thin, relatively flat handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case and an array of twenty-four rectangular plastic keys. The ten digit keys and decimal point key are white. The total key, four arithmetic function keys, four memory keys, change sign key, % key, and square root key are black. The clear/clear entry key is red. The on/off switch is to the left on the top row of keys.
- Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit LCD display. Text behind it reads: Radio Shack (/) statesman thin LCD. The calculator has no jack for a power adapter.
- At the top of the back is a compartment for two AA batteries. Stickers inside it read: 61885 and: 6AO. A sticker below the battery compartment on the back reads: Radio Shack (/) Cat. No. : 65-674 (/) Model : EC-267 (/) DC 3V (‘AA’ Cell x 2) (/) Custom Mfd. in Hong Kong for Radio Shack, (/) A Division of Tandy Corporation.
- According to a 1981 Catalog, this was a new model for Radio Shack in 1981.
- Reference:
- Radio Shack, A Tandy Company, 1981 Catalog No. 328, p. 164, accessed September 22, 2014, at radioshackcatalogs.com.. The price listed for the calculator is $14.95.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- 1981
- maker
- Tandy Corporation
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.045
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.045
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Corvus 411 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator was manufactured by a subsidiary of Mostek Corporation, Corvus Corporation of Dallas, Texas. Founded in 1969 as a spinoff of Texas Instruments, Mostek became a leading manufacturer of semiconductors. Some of its first products were chips used by the Japanese firm of Busicom in desktop electronic calculators— in 1970, Busicom introduced such a calculator that used only a single Mostek chip. For a brief time in the 1970s, Mostek sold electronic calculators under the name Corvus. According to trademark registration for Corvus, the term was first used in commerce referring to an electronic digital calculator in 1973. Advertisements for the Corvus 411 appeared in 1974.
- The calculator has a cream-colored plastic case and twenty rectangular plastic keys with a brown keyboard behind them. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key and a total key. Right of these is a column of four function keys. Directly above the digit keys is a row with EE (enter exponent), pi, inverse, and square root keys. Behind this are two memory keys, an exchange key, and an orange clear key. A sticker directly behind the keyboard reads: CORVUS. Behind this is is a red LED display. It shows the sign of the mantissa, six digits of the mantissa, the sign of the exponent, and two digits of the exponent.
- On the back at the bottom is a compartment for four nickel cadmium batteries. A sticker above the battery compartment reads in part: CORVUS 411 (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR. It also reads: SERIAL NO. (/) 411-0135447. It also reads: POWER 6VDC 100 mA 115 (/) V with adaptor (/) CAUTION: Attempted repair (/) by unauthorized persons will (/) void warranty. (/) CORVUS (/) CORPORATION (/) Dallas, Texas. Included are an AC power adapter and an owner’s manual.
- All these materials fit into a cardboard box. A mark on the lid of the box reads: CORVUS (/) SLIDE RULE (/) CALCULATOR (/) WITH MEMORY (/) 411. A tag on the bottom of the box reads: $69.95.
- References:
- [Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, October 1, 1974, p. 6. Several Corvus calculators advertised (not the Corvus 312). The Corvus 411 regularly $99.95, on sale for $69.88.
- [Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, November 12, 1974, p. 8. The Corvus 411, regularly $99.95, is advertised as on sale for $69.88.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1974
- maker
- Corvus Corporation
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.057
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.057
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
National Semiconductor NS 600 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator has a cream-colored plastic case with fifteen plastic keys, thirteen of them square and two rectangular. It has ten digit keys, a clear key, and four keys for arithmetic functions. Behind the keyboard are a switch marked “DECIMAL” and an on/off switch. A mark between the switches reads: NS (/) ELECTRONICS. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit display.
- At the top of the back is a compartment for a nine-volt battery. A paper sticker below this reads in part: NS (/) ELECTRONICS 600 CALCULATOR Made in U.S.A. It also reads in part: 460374(/) SERIAL NUMBER. It also reads in part: NS ELECTRONICS (/) A Division of (/) National Semiconductor Corp. (/) 2900 Semiconductor Drive, (/) Santa Clara, California 95051.
- According to trademark records, the trademark shown on this calculator was first used in commerce in September 1973 and registered in 1977. No registration is indicated on the object.
- Compare three examples of the National Semiconductor 600, 1986.0988.064, 1986.0988.275, and 1986.0988.307 (the Whiz Kid).
- References:
- [Advertisment], Chicago Tribune, April 26, 1974, p. B10. NS600 advertised as on sale for a reduced price of $24.88.
- [Advertisment], Washington Post, November 28, 1974, p. L10. NS600 on sale for $14.88, regular price $19.88.
- U.S. Trademark 73008967, filed December 17, 1973, registered February 22, 1977.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1974
- maker
- National Semiconductor Corporation
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.064
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.064
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Litronix 2260R Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This Litronix 2260R handheld electronic calculator has a brown plastic case and twenty-five rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a pi key, four arithmetic function keys, and a total key. The top row of the keyboard also has a clear/on key, an off key, and two parentheses keys. The leftmost column of keys includes exponential, square, square root, and change sign keys. A mark above the top row of keys reads: slide rule. Behind is an eight-digit red LED display. A mark behind this reads: litronix (/) 2260. A socket for the power adapter is along the right edge.
- A large sticker on the back of the calculator reads in part: Litronix 2260R (/) RECHARGEABLE (/) 4 VDC 300MW Serial No. 40394. It also reads in part: Litronix, Inc., Cupertino, CA. Assembled in Malaysia. The right edge of this sticker reads: Property of . . . CHERZAN.
- Also included is a twenty-page leaflet entitled: a guide to machine calculation Litronix 2260 exponential. The calculator fits in a brown leather or leatherette case with a metal snap.
- Prices found for the Litronix 2260 range from $68.88 down to $39.95.
- For further information about Litronix, see 1986.0988.253. Compare 1986.0988.302.
- References:
- [Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, December 26, 1974, p. N9. Litronix 2260R, regularly priced at $89.95, on sale for $68.88.
- [Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, March 26, 1976, p. B8. Litronix 2260R, regularly priced at $49.99 on sale for $39.99.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- 1974-1976
- maker
- Litronix
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.067
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.067
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Radofin 2200 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case with a metallic-colored keyboard and stickers and eighteen black plastic keys. The keys include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a clear key, and a constant key. The on/off switch is to the left of the top two keys. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit red LED display. A mark behind this reads: Radofin.
- The back of the calculator has a compartment for a nine-volt battery. A sticker below the compartment reads in part: Radofin (/) OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS. It also reads in part: SERIAL NO. 2200- 14598 (/) RADOFIN ELECTRONICS. A small sticker below this reads: ASSEMBLED IN TAIWAN. A mark in molded plastic reads: HONG KONG.
- No advertisements found.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1975
- maker
- Radofin Electronics
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.081
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.081
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Texas Instruments TI Business Analyst II Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator is similar to the earlier Business Analyst, but has a larger number of functions and a different display. It has a gold-colored metal front with plastic back and trim, and an array of forty small rectangular plastic keys. In addition to ten digit keys, a decimal point key, and a change sign key (all light brown), the calculator has a total key and four arithmetic function keys (all in dark brown). The remaining keys are white. One is for on/clear, one is for off, and another, marked "2nd," is pushed to activate the “dual function” indicated on the keyboard above many of the white and dark brown keys. The calculator has a variety of statistical, business, and mathematical functions, and limited memory.
- Text above the keys reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) TI Business Analyst – II (/) Constant Memory. Behind this is an eight-digit LCD display. Text on the back of the calculator reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator (/) SER. (/) NO. 2073604 ATA0380. Further text reads: ASSEMBLED IN USA. A stamp on the back reads: 33. A small compartment is designed to hold two tiny batteries.
- The device has a black tan plastic carrying sleeve. It is marked on the back: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS.
- References:
- The online Datamath Museum says the calculator was introduced in 1978 and made through 1983.
- [Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, December 9, 1978, p. C5. Describes calculator in some detail. Price $39.95.
- [Advertisement], Washington Post, August 17, 1979, p. A14. Lists sale price of $39.95, was $44.95.
- [Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, September 20, 1980, p. SD_B7. Gives price as $44.95.
- [Advertisement], Washington Post, December 18, 1981, p. E2. Lists Christmas sale price of $32.90.
- [Advertisement], Washington Post, October 21, 1982, p. B8. Lists price of $34.87.
- [Advertisement], New York Times, December 11, 1983, p. 81. List price of $34.50.
- [Advertisement], The Hartford Courant, August 5, 1984, p. Z4. Sale price $29.97.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- 1980
- maker
- Texas Instruments
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.087
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.087
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Sharp EL-5804 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator was advertised in the Washington Post as “Sharp’s Super Slick Sliderule [sic] Built for Scientists.” It combined the shape of a slide rule with the functions of a scientific calculator, and even boasted a plastic leatherette carrying sleeve.
- The calculator has a metal case and thirty-two rectangular plastic keys. The rightmost column of keys has three memory keys and a total key. Left of this is a column of four arithmetic function keys. Left of this are three columns with ten digit keys, a change sign key, and a decimal point key. Function keys left of this include logarithmic, exponential, trigonometric, square root, and degree conversion keys. If an F key is pushed, these keys also can be used to find powers of e, reciprocals, pi, and inverse trigonometric functions. The clear entry/clear key and the F key are left of these function keys. Still further to the left is an on/off key, which can be set for angular measure in either degrees or radians.
- At the far left is an LCD display, which gives results in scientific notation, with a six-digit mantissa and a two-digit exponent. Text below the display reads: ELSI MATE EL-5804 (/) SHARP.
- The back of the calculator has a scale at the top fifteen centimeters long, divided to millimeters. A compartment on the bottom right would hold three squat cylindrical silver oxide batteries. Text next to the battery compartment reads in part: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-5804. It also reads: NO. 74302580 BM (/) SHARP CORPORATION (/) MADE IN JAPAN. Further text reads: U.S. Pats 3902169 3976994. The most recent U.S. patent number listed, 3976994, was issued in 1976 and assigned to Sharp.
- A mark on the brown carrying case reads: SHARP.
- References:
- [Advertisement], Washington Post, August 12, 1977, p. D16. Advertised as costing $34.95.
- Frank Macias, “Calculating Friends: Delegate That Everyday Balancing Act to These Little Guys with Big Brains,” Los Angeles Times, November 19, 1978, p. O64.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- 1976-1978
- maker
- Sharp Corporation
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.090
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.090
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Sharp EL-8118 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator has some but not all of the functions of a scientific calculator. It has a metal and plastic case with twenty rounded square keys and ten rounded rectangular keys, for a total of thirty plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, three memory keys, and a change sign key. Keys in the top row are for powers, squares, inverses, pi, clear/clear entry, “MU Δ%,” “% 5/4,” %, square roots, and dollars. To the right of the keyboard is a switch that can be set at the values 5/4, A, 0, 2, 4, and F. This may relate to the position of the decimal point.
- Above the keys is an eight-digit green fluorescent display. A mark above it reads: SHARP ELSI MATE (/) EL-8118 (/) Electronic Calculator. To the right is an on/off switch. A jack for a power adapter is along the back edge.
- The back of the calculator has a compartment at the top that holds two AA batteries. A mark below this reads: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL – 8118. It also reads: SHARP CORPORATION (/) MADE IN KOREA. Below this is a paper sticker with American, British, Canadian, Swedish, and Australian patent numbers. The largest U.S. patent number is 3621219.
- The calculator has a dark brown leatherette carrying case with a metal snap.
- Reference:
- [Advertisement], Washington Post, January 13, 1977, p. A19. The Sharp 8118 calculator is listed as regularly priced at $19.95, on sale for $17.95.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1976
- maker
- Sharp Corporation
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.091
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.091
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Sharp EL-8002 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator has a blue and white plastic case with nineteen square keys with rounded corners. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, a clear entry key and a clear key. Above the keyboard a metal tag reads: SHARP ELSI 8002. Behind this is an eight-digit green fluorescent display. A jack for a power adapter is along the back edge and an on/off switch is along the left side.
- At the top of the back is a compartment for three AA batteries. A tag below this reads: SHARP MODEL EL-8002 (/) RATING: 4.5V DC (/) DRY-BATTERY SUM-3 x 3 (/) OR AC ADAPTOR MODEL EA-12A 0.3W (/) NO. 4101559X (/) SHARP ELECTRONICS CORPORATION (/) 10 KEYSTONE PLACE, PARAMUS, N.J.07852 (/) MADE IN JAPAN BM. A tag below this lists U.S., Canadian, Swedish and Australian patents.
- References:
- [Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, October 31, 1974, p. sg11. Sharp 8002 calculator advertised as new for 1974-1975. List price $59.95, sale price $34.95.
- [Advertisement], Washington Post, January 11, 1975, p. A11. Sharp 8002 on sale for $29.95.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- 1974-1975
- maker
- Sharp Corporation
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.094
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.094
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Sharp EL-8114 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator has a blue and white plastic case with twenty-two square keys with rounded corners. In addition to ten digit keys, it has a change sign key, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a percentage key, a square root key, a clear/clear entry key and two memory keys. The on/off switch is above the keyboard to the left. A tag beside it reads: SHARP ELSI MATE (/) EL-8114. Behind it is an eight-digit display. A jack for a power adapter is along the back edge. A plastic loop for carrying the calculator extends from the left side.
- The bottom of the back of the calculator has a compartment that holds four rechargeable or three non-rechargeable AA batteries. A sticker inside it reads: 51279388. Text further up on the back reads: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-8114. It also reads: SHARP CORPORATION (/) MADE IN JAPAN (/) BM.
- A mark scratched on the right edge of the calculator reads: DAVID SHINNEMAN LAKE FOREST (/) ILLINOIS. This calculator belonged to David Shinneman, who used it as a student at Lake Forest High School in Lake Forest, Illinois. Shinneman went on to attend Northern Arizona University from 1980 to 1984, did graduate work in Florida, and pursued a career in city planning.
- Compare the Sharp EL-8005S (1986.0988.095).
- References:
- [Advertisement], Boston Globe, November 23, 1975, p. 48. Sharp EL-8114 on sale for $19.95.
- Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett Printing, 1997, p. 140. This source also gives $19.95 as the 1975 price for calculator.
- The website radaris.com, accessed October 21, 2014.
- Personal communication, David Shinneman, October 22, 2014.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1975
- maker
- Sharp Corporation
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.096
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.096
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
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