Object Details
maker
Casio Computer Company
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
Credit Line
Gift of John B. Priser
date made
1976-1977
ID Number
1986.0988.026
catalog number
1986.0988.026
accession number
1986.0988
Object Name
electronic calculator
Other Terms
electronic calculator; Handheld
Physical Description
plastic (case; keys; display cover; circuit boards material)
metal (keyboard; circuitry material)
glass (tube material)
paper (sticker material)
square (keys shape)
Measurements
overall: 3/4 in x 3 in x 4 1/2 in; 1.905 cm x 7.62 cm x 11.43 cm
place made
Japan
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_334440