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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Rockwell 24K II Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator has a metal case and twenty-five rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, a % key, a change sign key, an exchange key, a square root key, and four memory keys. The on/off switch is left of the top row of keys. At the bottom of the keyboard a mark reads: the 24K II. A mark below this reads: Rockwell. Above the keyboard is an eight-digit blue fluorescent display. The jack for a power adapter is along the front edge.
- A sticker attached to the back reads: Rockwell (/) International (/) Model 24K II (/) Made in Japan. It also reads: Microelectronics Product Division (/) Anaheim, CA 92803 Ser. No. (/) 148417.096.
- This example lacks a case.
- Compare the Rockwell 24K (1986.0988.238).
- Reference:
- [Advertisement], Washington Post, October 15, 1976, p. A16. Rockwell 24K II sells for $34.95.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1976
- maker
- Rockwell International
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.164
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.164
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
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APF Mark 50 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator is designed for scientific work. It has an array of digit keys with a decimal point key, keys for the four arithmetic functions, a clear entry/clear key, and an equals/constant key. Pushing down a function key allow one to use the digit keys to find trigonometric and inverse trigonometric functions in either degrees or radians. Other keys are converted by the function key to give square roots, natural logs, exponents, pi, and the inverse of a number. Still others perform vaious memory functions. A convert key transforms results from scientific notation to floating point notation or vice versa.
- Text on the keyboard reads: aPF MARK 50 SCIENTIFIC CALCULATOR (/) LOG X = LN X + 2.30259.
- A hole for the adapter is at the back, as well as a compartment for a battery. The calculator presently has no battery. The lid of the compartment is on the back. A mark on the inside of it reads: JAPAN (/) 0101641. A sticker attached to the back reads in part: aPF MARK 50 (/) OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS. It also reads in part: Use only Model 710 of 751S adaptor (optional) (/) to operate on A.C. (/) Model No. MARK-50 Serial No. J-44134 (/) MADE IN U.S.A. The back has four rubber feet.
- The vacuum fluorescent display is behind the keyboard. It has two digits for the exponent, five for the mantissa, and two for the sign (one each for the exponent and the mantissa).
- The APF Mark 50 calculator was advertised in the Los Angeles Times on June 8, 1975, as "New!" and "Ultra advanced!" It then sold for $59.95. According to a June 11, 1975, advertisement in the New York Times, the APF Mark 50 had originally sold for $89.95 and was then on sale for $40.00. An October 22, 1975, sale advertisement lists a price of $35. Similarly, a January 4, 1976, advertisement in the Chicago Tribune gives a price of $34.99. A September 16, 1979, advertisement in the Washington Post lists the model as selling for $9.99.
- References:
- Los Angeles Times, June 8, 1975, p. T19.
- New York Times, June 11, 1975, p. 6.
- New York Times, October 22, 1975, p. 14.
- Chicago Tribune, January 4, 1976, p. 12.
- Washington Post, September 16, 1979, p. K5.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1975
- maker
- APF Electronics
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.170
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.170
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
APF Mark 61 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This compact handheld electronic calculator has eleven white plastic keys, ten for digits and one for a decimal point. It also has four gray plastic memory keys and eight tan plastic keys. The tan keys are for arithmetic operations, square root, percentage, clear entry/clear, and equals. The display is behind the keys. A mark above it reads: aPF EXECUTIVE. Battery sealed. A hole for the adapter and recharger is on the back edge.
- A metal tag on the back reads: aPF EXECUTIVE (/) MODEL NO.:MARK 61 (/) D.C. 2.4 VOLTS (/) CAUTION: USE ONLY (/) A.C. ADAPTOR (/) RECHARGER MODEL 751S to OPERATE (/) ON A.C. Another mark there reads: SERIAL NO:A012559 (/) APF ELCETRONICS INC. (/) NEW YORK, N.Y. 10022 (/) MADE IN JAPAN.
- No advertisements have been found for this calculator. Ball and Flamm say that the calculator has a fluorescent display and cost $19.85 in 1977.
- Reference:
- Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector"s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin CA: Wilson/Barnett,1997, p. 30.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1977
- maker
- APF Electronics
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.172
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.172
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
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APF Mark 84 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator has an array of ten white digit keys with a white decimal point key. Right of the digit keys are orange keys for the four aithmetic functions, which also can serve as memory keys. An orange equals/constant key, which can also serve as a memory key, is next to the decimal point key. The top row has keys for percentage, clear entry/clear, and memory. The row also contains an on/off switch. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit (or possibly nine-digit) fluorescent display. A mark at the back reads: aPF MARK 84. The hole for the adapter is on the right side.
- The back of the calculator has a compartment for the battery at the top and two rubber feet at the bottom. A mark on the interior of the battery back reads: 2 (/) JAPAN (/) 0108241. A silver-colored sticker on the back reads: aPF ELECTRONICS, INC. (/) MODEL NO. MARK 84 (/) D.C. 9.0 VOLTS (/) CAUTION: Use only optional (/) A. C. adaptor model 710 or (/) 751S to operate on A. C. (/) SERIAL No: J 0119684 (/) MADE IN JAPAN.
- This calculator closely resembles an APF calculator advertised in a March 1977, issue of the Los Angeles Times as selling for $7.99. That advertisement does not give a model number.
- Reference:
- Los Angeles Times, March 19, 1977, p. 15.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1977
- maker
- APF Electronics
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.175
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.175
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
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APF Mark 85 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator has an array of ten white digit keys and an eleventh white deimal pont key. It has keys for the four arithmetic functions, percentage, clear entry/clear, and equals. Five orange memory keys are in the rightmost column. The on/off switch is above these keys on the left, and the nine-digit fluorescent display is behind this. A mark below the display reads: aPF MARK 85. The hole for the adapter is on the top edge.
- The black plastic case has two rubber feet at the top. A silver-colored paper sticker below this reads: aPF ELECTRONICS, INC. (/) MODEL NO. MARK 85 (/) D.C. 4.5 VOLTS (/) CAUTION: Use only A.C. adaptor (/) model 751S to operate on A.C. (/) SERIAL NO: 053059 (/) S85 MADE IN JAPAN. Below this is the cover for the battery case that holds three AAA bateries. A mark on the inside of the lid of this case reads: JAPAN (/) 0108641.
- This calculator closely resembles the APF Mark 65r, although the function keys are slightly different (no square root key on the 85) and there is no rechargeable battery. Compare 1986.0988.174.
- No advertisements found for this calculator. Assigned date on basis of similarity with APF Mark 65r.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1977
- maker
- APF Electronics
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.176
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.176
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
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Sanyo ICC-810 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This hefty handheld electronic calculator has a metal case, eighteen indented square plastic keys, and a metal hold bar. The keys include ten for digits, one for a decimal point, four for arithmetic functions, one clear display (CK), one clear all, and an H key. The addition and subtraction keys also serve as total /difference keys.
- The keyboard also has a bar with a light on it. A mark on it reads: HOLD. A tag behind the keyboard reads: SANYO. Behind this is the eight-digit gas discharge display. An on/off switch is on the right side and a jack for a power adapter is at the back edge.
- A tag on the back of the calculator reads: SANYO MODEL ICC-810 (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) INPUT DC 7.5 V (/) DC 7.5V, DC 2.5W (/) SERIAL NO. 77205767 T (/) SANYO ELECTRIC CO., LTD. MADE IN JAPAN.
- Compare 1986.0988.178.
- References:
- The web sites calculator.org as well as myCalcdb.free.fr date this calculator to 1972-1974. No advertisements found.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- 1972-1974
- maker
- Sanyo Electric Company
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.177
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.177
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
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Sanyo CX 8132 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- The case of this handheld electronic calculator has a metal front and a plastic back. It has twenty-two indented plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, a clear key, a square root key, a % key, a change sign key, and two memory keys. An on/off switch is on the keyboard right of the two top keys. Behind this is an eight-digit green fluorescent display. A tag behind this reads: SANYO. A jack for a power adapter is on the back edge.
- The back has a compartment for two AA batteries. Text molded in the case reads in part: SANYO CX-8132 OPERATION EXAMPLES. It also reads in part: INPUT: DC 3V (Two AA size batteries) (/) or DC 2.8 V (AC adaptor CU-20) (/) POWER: 0.3W (/) SANYO ELECTRIC CO. LTD. BM. A sticker below this reads: NO. 04900856 T (/) DAN MILLS. Text molded in the case below reads: MADE IN JAPAN.
- References:
- No advertisements found. The website calculator.org dates this calculator to 1975. The website epocalc.net dates the calculator to 1978.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1975
- maker
- Sanyo Electric Company
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.179
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.179
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Sanyo CX 1231 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- 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
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Casio Mini Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This was Casio’s first model of a handheld electronic calculator and one of the first to sell for under $100. It has a black plastic case with aluminum trim on the front. The array of round plastic keys includes ten digit keys, a cancel key, keys for four arithmetic functions (the addition key is also a total key), and an arrow key that is pressed to show more of larger results. To the left of the keyboard is a six-digit vacuum fluorescent display. Left of it is the on/off switch. A mark below the display reads: CASIO-MINI (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR. No decimal point appears in entries or results. A small device to hold a carrying loop is on the left edge of the calculator, but this example has no carrying loop.
- Unscrewing screws on the two ends of the calculator releases the top. A sticker attached in front of the keyboard reads: 6006767. A mark on a chip above the display reads: 2H (/) HD32127P. According to Rick Bensene, this is an early large-scale integrated chip made by Hitachi.
- The back of the calculator has a compartment that would hold four batteries. A mark on the back reads: CASIO-MINI (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) BATTERY SUPPLY 1.5 V x 4 (/) 850mW MADE IN JAPAN (/) CASIO COMPUTER CO., LTD. There is residue from a sticker on the back of the battery compartment, but no serial number there.
- A November1972 advertisement in the New York Times lists the Casio Mini as on sale for $59.95. A March 1973 advertisement in the Los Angeles Times lists the Casio Mini as on special for $69.99, noting that it costs $30.00 less than competitive models. An April 1973 advertisement in the Los Angeles Times gives a sale price of $59.99 on a regular price of $69.99.
- By June 1973 an illustration of the Casio Mini in the Los Angeles Times shows a different version of the device that has a power adapter on the left side, square keys, and a decimal point slide switch (the CM-602). It was on sale for $59.95.
- Compare 1986.0988.185.
- References:
- Rick Bensene, Old Calculator Museum website, http://www.oldcalculatormuseum.com/casiomini.html.
- New York Times, November 30, 1972, p. 27.
- Los Angeles Times, March 23, 1973, p. 16.
- Los Angeles Times, April 20, 1973, p. 8.
- Los Angeles Times, June 30, 1973, p. D2.
- Website of Casio International.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- 1972-1973
- maker
- Casio Computer Company
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.184
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.184
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Casio Pocket-Mini Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This compact handheld electronic calculator has a black case with an aluminum front. The keyboard has an array of square plastic keys, including ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, and, to the right of the digit keys, four keys for arithmetic functions. Left of the digit keys are an AC (all clear) key, a clear (entry) key, a percentage key, and a memory key. Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit vacuum fluorescent display. A mark above this reads: CASIO pocket-mini (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR
- The on/off switch is on the left side near the top. The socket for an adapter is on the right side near the base.
- At the top of the back is a compartment for two AA batteries. A sticker inside the battery compartment reads: 0773177. A mark at the base of the back reads: CASIO pocket-mini (/) BATTERY SUPPLY 1.5Vx2 (/) or use AC ADAPTOR AD-2S (/) 0.2W (/) P-810 MADE IN JAPAN (/) BM CASIO COMPUTER CO. LTD.
- The device has a black plastic carrying pouch. A mark on it reads: MADE IN TAIWAN.
- A different form of the Pocket-Mini (the CP 801-C), which lacked a memory key, was advertised as new in the May 21, 1975, Chicago Tribune. The P-810 was among the Casio calculators with memory advertised from October 21, 1975. It sold for $19.95. By March 1977 the sale price was $14.95. The web site of Casio Corporation indicates that the calculator was introduced in 1974.
- References:
- Casio Corporation website.
- Chicago Tribune, May 21, 1975, p. 14.
- Chicago Tribune, October 21, 1975, p. B3.
- Los Angeles Times, October 21, 1975, p. B16.
- Chicago Tribune March 2, 1977, p. B8.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- 1975-1977
- maker
- Casio Computer Company
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.186
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.186
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Casio LC-785 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This credit card-sized, lightweight handheld electronic calculator has an aluminum case and brown plastic keys. 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 square root, C (clear), and AC (all clear) keys are left of the digit keys. The on/off switch is next to the AC key.
- The eight-digit liquid crystal display is above and to the left of the keyboard. A mark below it reads: CASIO LC-785 (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR. A mark on the back reads: CASIO LC-785B (/) BM MADE IN JAPAN RATING: DC 3V 0.00025W (/) USE BATTERY 1.5Vx2.
- A screw on the left side of the back holds it to the front. Unscrewing it reveals the circuitry. A sticker on the inside of the back of the case reads: 1D202A.
- The calculator fits in a leather pouch which also has a booklet of instructions printed in English, German, French, Spanish and Italian. A mark on the pouch reads: CASIO.
- Several advertisements for the LC-785 appeared in late 1981. None found specifically mentions the LC-785B. The Casio website lists the LC-785 as a product of Casio in 1982.
- References:
- Washington Post, October 23, 1981, p. B10. This gives a regular price of $13.95 and a sale price of $11.95.
- Los Angeles Times, October 31, 1981, p. D3. This gives a regular price of $12.95.
- Los Angeles Times, November 29, 1981, p. G26. This gives a regular price of $16.99 and a sale price of $10.99.
- Casio website http://www.casio-calculator.com/Museum/ByYear/1982.html .
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- 1981-1982
- maker
- Casio Computer Company
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.187
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.187
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Texas Instruments TI-1010 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This simple handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case, a metal keyboard with silver-colored trim, and rectangular plastic keys. The twenty keys include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a percent key, a change sign key, an off key, and an on/clear key. A mark behind the keyboard reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS TI-1010. Behind this is an eight-digit LCD display.
- The back of the calculator has a compartment for two small batteries. A mark above the compartment reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator. Below the compartment is a space for a serial number but no serial number. A mark reads: ATA2980 (/) ASSEMBLED IN USA.
- A mark on the back of the black plastic jacket reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS.
- Compare the TI-1030 (1986.0110.089). The TI-1010 has no memory keys.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- 1980
- maker
- Texas Instruments
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.198
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.198
- 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
-
Toshiba LC-825 II Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator has an aluminum case with plastic trim and an array of twenty-four 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, and a clear entry/clear key. The on/off switch is to the left in the top row of keys. Text below the keyboard reads: TOSHIBA. Text above the keyboard reads: LC-825II. Behind this is an eight-digit liquid crystal display.
- A sticker on the back of the calculator reads in part: TOSHIBA ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) LC-825 II (/) DC 3V 1.5 x 2 0.09mW. It also reads: NO. 207503 BM (/) TOSHIBA CORPORATION JAPAN.
- The calculator is in a plastic wallet that is marked on the front: TOSHIBA. The wallet also contains a leaflet of instructions.
- References:
- According to the www.datamath.org website, as well as the www.calcuseum.com website (both accessed December 4, 2014), this calculator was introduced in 1981.
- No advertisements found.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1981
- maker
- Toshiba Corporation
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.200
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.200
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Wang LOCI-2 Electronic Calculator
- Description
- One of the first programmable electronic calculators, this instrument was announced in 1964 and sold from 1965. It was designed by An Wang (1920-1990) and his associates. Wang, a native of Shanghai, immigrated to the United States after World War II, studied computer science at Harvard University, and worked at the Harvard Computation Laboratory. He started his own business in 1951, producing magnetic core memories and other electronic equipment on order. The LOCI or “logarithmic calculating instrument” was the first product marketed by the company. Two versions of the machine were announced: the LOCI I, which was not programmable, and the LOCI II, which was.
- The desktop machine has nine digit keys arranged in an array, as well as a zero bar and a decimal point key. Depressing other keys changes the sign of the number, shifts the decimal point, shifts from the logarithmic to the work register, and shifts from the work to the logarithmic register. Further keys are for arithmetic operations, squares, square roots, inverse squares, inverse square roots, inverse logarithms, and clearance of various registers. To the right are controls for the decrement counter, the program counter, and the operation code. According to company advertising, the machine offers ten-digit precision in addition and subtraction and eight-digit precision in multiplication, division, exponentiation, root extraction, and logarithm computation. It has five storage registers of ten-digit capacity and a ten-digit display, plus a display for the sign of the answer. A cooling fan and a cord are at the back. The card reader attachment that plugs into the back holds program cards.
- A tag on the front of the machine reads: LOCI-2. A tag on the back reads: ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS AND DEVICES (/) LOCI II (/) MODEL NO. 2AB (/) SERIAL NO. 2734 (/) TEWKSBURY, MASS. U.S.A. A paper tag on the back of the machine indicates that it was serviced 4/28/68, 9/12/68, and 2/9/71.
- According to a 1964 flier, the machine was to sell for $4,750.00. Kenney says that the initial price was $6,500. Wang Laboratories would go on to sell the 300 series of calculators (from 1966) and the 700 series (from 1969), and to manufacture minicomputers and networked microcomputers.
- For related objects and documents, see 1980.0096.02 through 1980.0096.10.
- Compare 1980.0096.01 with the later 1983.0171.01 (a Wang Series 700 calculator), and the even later 2011.0022.01 (a Wang Series 600 calculator).
- References:
- There is an extensive discussion of the LOCI II at the website of the Old Calculator Museum. See:http://www.oldcalculatormuseum.com/wangloci.html
- Wang Laboratories, Inc., “LOCI-2 Open New Vistas to your Personal Computing . . .,” Tewksbury, Ma., 1964. This is 1980.0096.08. A similar leaflet describes the LOCI-1 and has museum number 1980.0096.07.
- Charles C. Kenney, Riding the Runaway Horse: The Rise and Decline of Wang Laboratories, Boston: Little, Brown and Co., 1992.
- date made
- 1965 or later
- date received
- 1980
- maker
- Wang Laboratories
- ID Number
- 1980.0096.01
- catalog number
- 1980.0096.01
- accession number
- 1980.0096
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Hewlett-Packard HP-35 Handheld Electronic Calculator
- Description
- The HP-35 was the first handheld electronic calculator to compute all the functions represented on a slide rule. It has a black plastic case and a total of thirty-five square or rectangular plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, and a pi key, all colored tan. In addition there are four arithmetic function left of the digit keys, a relatively long enter key, a change sign key, and enter exponent key, a clear x key, and a clear key, all in blue. Additional black keys are for powers, logs to base ten, natural logs, exponents, square roots, trigonometric functions (sine, cosine, tangent and the inverses of these), simple inverses, exchange, roll down, store, and recall. Above the keys is an on/off switch. There is no hole next to the switch to indicate that the display is on, as there was in the very first HP-35 calculators. Behind the switch is a red LED display that shows results. Numbers with absolute value between one hundredth and 10 billion are given in decimal form. Smaller or larger ones appear in scientific notation, with the appropriate power of ten occupying the three rightmost digit places (two for digits, one for a sign). The negative sign for the result, if needed, is at the far left. A mark on the front edge of the calculator reads: hp HEWLETT•PACKARD.
- The back of the calculator has a plug for a three-prong power adapter, a compartment for a battery pack, four rubber feet, and a sticker entitled: HEWLETT•PACKARD MODEL 35 INSTRUCTIONS. Text below the sticker reads: HEWLETT-PACKARD (/) 3.75V 500MW (/) MADE IN USA PATENT PENDING. A sticker inside the battery pack reads: HEWLETT-PACKARD (/) SER.NO. 1302A 27645. The portion 1302 of the serial number suggests that it was made in the second week of 1973. A red sticker on the lid of the battery pack reads: CAUTION (/) USE ONLY H. P. BATTERY PACK (/) MODEL NO 82001A (/) OTHER BATTERIES MAY DAMAGE CIRCUITS.
- In addition to the calculator, the gray plastic case contains a power adapter labeled in part HEWLETT - PACKARD (/) MODEL 82002A. It also has a carrying pouch, battery packs, and a battery case.
- According to the donor, Nicholas Grossman, he ordered the calculator when it was first announced and received it, paying $395 plus shipping, six weeks later. The HP-35 was first announced in early 1972.
- Received with the calculator were two documents, the HP-35 Operating Manual and HP-35 Math Pac.
- References:
- W.A.C. Mier-Jedrzejowicz, A Guide to HP Handheld Calculators and Computers , Tustin, California: Wilson/Burnett Publishing, 1997, pp. 36–39, 132.
- David G. Hicks, The Museum of HP Calculators, http://www.hpmuseum.org/, accessed July 2014.
- Thomas M. Whitney, France Rodé, and Chung C. Tung, “The ‘Powerful Pocketful’: an Electronic Calculator Challenges the Slide Rule,” Hewlett-Packard Journal, June 1972, pp. 2–9.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- 1972-1973
- maker
- Hewlett-Packard Company
- ID Number
- 1982.0222.01
- catalog number
- 1982.0222.01
- accession number
- 1982.0222
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Wang 700 Electronic Calculator
- Description
- In March of 1968, An Wang saw a prototype of Hewlett-Packard’s HP9100 programmable desktop calculator. This machine reduced the task of finding many scientific functions from programming to pushing a key. In response, Wang Laboratories announced plans for a new set of calculators for the scientific and engineering communities, the series 700 advanced programming calculator. The instrument came on the market in mid-1969.
- A large keyboard at the front of the machine includes keys for entering digits, carrying out arithmetic operations, and finding squares, square roots, and reciprocals. A separate key enters the number pi. Another set of keys performs operations for both logarithms and exponents in base e and base 10. Special function keys above the digit keys are set for trigonometric and hyperbolic functions. A tape cassette on the right above the keyboard allows for entering programs via magnetic tape. Left of the tape drive is a Nixie tube display that shows up to twelve digits in two registers, followed by the sign of the exponent and the exponent.
- A mark on the front left of the calculator reads: WANG. A metal tag at the back reads: Wang Laboratories, Inc. (/) ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) MODEL NO. 700C (/) SERIAL No. 811055-C (/) TEWKSBURY, MASS. U.S.A. Marks on the rightmost column of keys confirm that is a model Wang 700C, having debugging features characteristic of that machine. It was released in 1972. A paper sticker on the right back reads: JUL 8 1970 [sic]. The July date is scribbled over one reading JUN 3. Hence the object dates from at least 1970, most probably about 1972.
- Documentation received with the calculator dates from 1969, 1970, and 1972.
- Reference:
- An extensive discussion of the Wang 720C advanced programming calculator is at The Old Calculator Web Museum.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1972
- maker
- Wang Laboratories
- ID Number
- 1983.0171.01
- catalog number
- 1983.0171.01
- accession number
- 1983.0171
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
-
Ultima Eletac 10 Desktop Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This lightweight, non-printing electronic calculator has an array of nine digit keys with a slightly larger 0 key and a decimal point key below these. On the right are keys for arithmetic operations. On the left are K, clear, and clear entry keys. The tubes above the keyboard show results up to ten digits in length.
- A mark above the display on the right reads: ELETAC10. A sticker attached above the display on the left reads: Ultima. Letters attached to the front left read: MUDEN. A tag attached to the bottom reads: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) ELETAC 10. It also reads: SERIAL NO. 320636 (/) Ultima Electronics, Ltd. (/) Made in Japan.
- Removing four screws from the bottom of the machine releases the cover. One circuit board is at the base, one holds the tubes that make up the display, and one lies under the keyboard. The calculator chip on the base has a Texas Instruments logo and reads: TMS0118NC (/) C7339. The "7339" is date code that refers to the 39th week of 1973, which is when the chip was manufactured.
- A February 13, 1973, article in the New York Times lists Muden as one of several companies that sold electronic calculators. On August 17, 1976, Ultima Electronics, Ltd., in Melville, N.Y., filed trademarks for MUDEN (first used in commerce in the United States in June of 1976) and ULTIMA (first used in commerce in the United States in October of 1975). These trademarks were registered in 1978. By 1989 Ultima Electronics was in Taiwan. As the Eletac 10 never gained wide sales, it seems likely that this example was sold about 1976.
- References:
- R.Metz, “Market Place,” New York Times, February 9, 1973, p. 46.
- Images of another example of this machine, with detailed photographs, are at http://www.devidts.com/be-calc/, accessed April 2, 2013.
- Yet another example of this machine, with a related Japanese advertisement, is in the Japanese virtual calculator museum at http://www.dentaku-museum.com/, accessed April 2, 2013.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- date made
- ca 1976
- maker
- Ultima Electronics, Ltd.
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.001
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.001
- 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
-
Unisonic Xl-110 Electronic Calculator
- Description
- This small, printing desktop electronic calculator has an array of nine digit keys with zero, decimal and equal keys below. On the right are for keys for arithmetic functions. Right of these are reverse sign, percentage, subtotal (diamond), and total (*) keys. Immediately to the left of the digit keys are memory total, memory subtotal, memory minus, and memory plus keys. Left of these are a paper feed (up arrow) key, a non-add printing and date printing key, a clear key, and a CE (clear entry?) key. Above the keys are a decimal point selector switch, a round-off selector switch, an item count print switch, a non-print switch, and a mark up, mark down key. The power switch is on the left side.
- Behind the keyboard is a ten-digit display. Behind this is a paper tape and printing mechanism. The paper tape folds forward for carrying, and back to display the results. With the paper tape open, the dimensions are 9 cm. h. x 12 cm. w. x 27.3 cm. d.
- A mark in back of the display reads: Unisonic XL-110. A mark on the back reads in part: Unisonic XL-110. In both of these marks, there is an indication that Unisonic is a registered trademark. It also reads in part: SERIAL NO. 90502020 MADE IN JAPAN. A case on the right side of the bottom holds four batteries. A jack for attaching to an “AC adaptor” is at the back.
- The North American Foreign Trading Corporation of New York City, N.Y., first used the trademark Unisonic in 1968 for vacuum tubes, resistors and other electronic devices. In 1972 it extended the trademark to include calculators, receiving the registration in 1975.
- Compare other Unisonic electronic calculators, 1986.0988.003 and 1986.0988.004.
- Reference:
- Unisonic Products Corporation, "Unisonic XL-15 Operating Instructions," Japan, no date.
- date made
- ca 1975
- maker
- Unisonic Products Corporation
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.005
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.005
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Data Source
- National Museum of American History
