Object Details
maker
Calfax
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a black plastic case. The oval plastic keys are colored red (the clear/clear entry key), white (the ten digit keys and the decimal point key), and blue (the four function keys and the enter key).
Behind the keyboard is an on/off switch on the right and a D key. Switching the D key changes from floating point arithmetic to a decimal point fixed for dollar and cents results. Behind the switches is six-digit red LED display
A sticker behind the display reads: calfax 616. There is no socket for an adapter.
The battery compartment at the top of the back would hold two batteries. This example presently has no batteries. A paper tag within the compartment reads: INSPECTED BY (/) 30 OCT 1975. A paper tag on the back of the calculator reads: Serial No. (/) 479650 (/) MADE IN HONG KONG.
The calculator fits in a cardboard box with a leaflet of instructions and plastic packing. The "calfax" mark at the top of the instructions and on the lid of the box indicates a registered trademark. This trademark reportedly was first used in commerce in 1972, filed in the United States in January 1973 and registered in September 1975.
An advertisement in the Washington Post published in July of 1976 shows several Calfax calculators, including a Calfax 616. At that time, the model had a sale price of $5.99.
Compare 1988.0988.22.
Reference:
Washington Post, July 28, 1976, p. A16.
Location
Currently not on view
Credit Line
Gift of John B. Priser
date made
1975
ID Number
1986.0988.202
catalog number
1986.0988.202
accession number
1986.0988
Object Name
electronic calculator
Physical Description
plastic (case; keys; display material)
metal (circuitry material)
paper (stickers; instructions; box material)
Measurements
overall: 1 in x 2 3/4 in x 5 in; 2.54 cm x 6.985 cm x 12.7 cm
container: 2 in x 3 3/4 in x 6 1/2 in; 5.08 cm x 9.525 cm x 16.51 cm
place made
China: Hong Kong
See more items in
Medicine and Science: Computers
Computers & Business Machines
Handheld Electronic Calculators
Data Source
National Museum of American History
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nmah_1305724