Object Details
maker
Texas Instruments
Description
This compact, light desktop printing electronic calculator has an array of nine light gray digit keys at the center, with a zero bar and decimal point key below this. On the left are clear, percentage, division, multiplication, and equals keys. On the right are total, #/S, subtraction, and addition keys. Above the digit keys are memory, F/A, and arrow keys. Behind the keys is a paper tape to print entries and results on special thermosensitive paper. This is the only display of entries and results.
A mark behind the printer reads: TI-5050M. A mark at the front reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. A mark on the bottom reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator (/) MODEL TI-5050M (/) SERIAL NO. (/) 9418428 MTA5078 (/) ASSEMBLED IN USA. Below this is a list of patent numbers that range from 3,819,921 to 4,014,013. The dates of these patents range from 1974 to 1977.
Ball and Flamm indicate that the TI-5050M was available in 1976. In 1977 the calculator reportedly sold for $149.95. In 1980, it was advertised as costing $79.95. The second part of the serial number suggests a 1978 date.
Compare 1987.0487.026.
References:
Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, Calif.: Wilson/Barnett Publishing, 1997, p. 158.
Hyla Clark and Larry Barandes, “Desktop Calculators That Print Their Results,” Popular Mechanics, vol. 147 #4, April, 1977, pp. 187–189.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, January 12, 1980, p. D4.
Location
Currently not on view
Credit Line
Gift of John B. Priser
date made
1978
ID Number
1986.0988.075
catalog number
1986.0988.075
accession number
1986.0988
Object Name
electronic calculator
Other Terms
electronic calculator; Desktop
Physical Description
plastic (case; keys material)
metal (screws material)
paper (tape material)
Measurements
overall: 2 13/16 in x 3 1/2 in x 8 1/2 in; 7.112 cm x 8.89 cm x 21.59 cm
place made
United States
See more items in
Medicine and Science: Computers
Computers & Business Machines
Desktop Electronic Calculators
Data Source
National Museum of American History
Subject
Business
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nmah_334489