Object Details
maker
Sharp Corporation
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has some but not all of the functions of a scientific calculator. It has a metal and plastic case with twenty rounded square keys and ten rounded rectangular keys, for a total of thirty plastic keys. These include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, three memory keys, and a change sign key. Keys in the top row are for powers, squares, inverses, pi, clear/clear entry, “MU Δ%,” “% 5/4,” %, square roots, and dollars. To the right of the keyboard is a switch that can be set at the values 5/4, A, 0, 2, 4, and F. This may relate to the position of the decimal point.
Above the keys is an eight-digit green fluorescent display. A mark above it reads: SHARP ELSI MATE (/) EL-8118 (/) Electronic Calculator. To the right is an on/off switch. A jack for a power adapter is along the back edge.
The back of the calculator has a compartment at the top that holds two AA batteries. A mark below this reads: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL – 8118. It also reads: SHARP CORPORATION (/) MADE IN KOREA. Below this is a paper sticker with American, British, Canadian, Swedish, and Australian patent numbers. The largest U.S. patent number is 3621219.
The calculator has a dark brown leatherette carrying case with a metal snap.
Reference:
[Advertisement], Washington Post, January 13, 1977, p. A19. The Sharp 8118 calculator is listed as regularly priced at $19.95, on sale for $17.95.
Location
Currently not on view
Credit Line
Gift of John B. Priser
date made
ca 1976
ID Number
1986.0988.091
catalog number
1986.0988.091
accession number
1986.0988
Object Name
electronic calculator
Other Terms
electronic calculator; Handheld
Physical Description
plastic (part of case; keys; display cover; carrying case material)
metal (circuitry; snap material)
paper (stiecker material)
Measurements
overall: 3/4 in x 3 1/8 in x 5 1/4 in; 1.905 cm x 7.9375 cm x 13.335 cm
place made
Korea
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_334505