Object Details
Description
Introduced at the Winter Consumer Electronics Show held in Chicago in January of 1975, the Monte Carlo is an extremely compact handheld electronic calculator. The metal case has nineteen square black plastic keys and a plastic on/off switch. In addition to ten digit keys, a decimal point key, four arithmetic function keys, and a total key, there are clear, percentage, and clear entry/display keys.
Behind the keyboard is an eight-digit red LED display. A mark above the display reads: Monte Carlo.
The case slides open from the base to reveal a battery compartment. In models sold, this compartment held a plastic case with five batteries like those used in contemporary hearing aids. It could be removed and plugged into the wall for recharging.
References:
Anne Douglas, “Current Trend is Pocket Size,” Chicago Tribune, January 12, 1975, p. A9.
The Vintage Calculator website describes the Monte Carlo and several related calculators. It shows a November, 1975, advertisement (source not specified) giving the full price as $29.95. An example shown in an image has a sticker on the back marked: Made in Hong Kong.
Location
Currently not on view
Credit Line
Gift of John B. Priser
date made
ca 1975
ID Number
1986.0988.334
catalog number
1986.0988.334
accession number
1986.0988
Object Name
electronic calculator
Physical Description
plastic (keys; display cover material)
metal (case; circuitry material)
Measurements
overall: 1/2 in x 2 in x 3 1/2 in; 1.27 cm x 5.08 cm x 8.89 cm
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_1363814