Object Details
maker
Casio Computer Company
Description
This handheld calculator reflects Casio’s long-standing attempt to bring down the price of such devices. As in the Casio Mini, the display is to the left of the keyboard. The keyboard has an array of ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, and four keys for arithmetic functions that are to the right of the digit keys. Left of the digit keys are an AC (all clear) key, a clear (entry) key, and a key for shifting the display to show further digits in the result.
The on/off switch is above the six-digit vacuum fluorescent display. A mark below the display reads: CASIO personal-mini. A pin along the top edge would link to an adapter.
The back of the calculator has a compartment for two batteries. Text to the left of the compartment, stamped upside down, reads: personal-mini (/) BATTERY SUPPLY 1.5Vx2 or (/) use AC ADAPTOR AD-2S (/) .18W MADE IN JAPAN (/) BM CASIO COMPUTER CO., LTD. A sticker on the back of the compartment cover reads: 6643235. A sticker inside the compartment reads: 0503531.
The calculator fits in a black plastic sleeve. A mark on one side of the sleeve reads: CASIO. A mark on the other side reads: MADE IN JAPAN.
A March 1975 advertisement in the Washington Post describes a Casio Personal Mini very similar to this one. The advertising text indicates that the instrument took squares, powers, and reciprocals. However, the keyboards of the calculator shown and of this calculator have no special keys for these functions. The calculator sold for $19.95. Another advertisement for the Casio Personal Mini appeared in the New York Times in January of 1976. No details are given other than a price of $13.50.
References:
New York Times, January 25, 1976, p. 104.
Vintage Technology website.
Washington Post, March 23, 1975, p. A20.
Location
Currently not on view
Credit Line
Gift of John B. Priser
date made
1975-1976
ID Number
1986.0988.025
catalog number
1986.0988.025
accession number
1986.0988
Object Name
electronic calculator
Other Terms
electronic calculator; Handheld
Physical Description
plastic (case; keys; display cover; carrying case material)
metal (circuitry materail)
paper (stickers material)
Measurements
overall: 7/8 in x 2 3/4 in x 5 5/8 in; 2.2225 cm x 6.985 cm x 14.2875 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_334439