Object Details
maker
Sharp Corporation
Description
This handheld electronic calculator has a black and white plastic case and an array of twenty-five plastic keys. Twenty of these keys are square with rounded corners. They include ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a % key, four arithmetic function keys, a total key, clear and clear entry keys, and a square root key. The other five keys are rectangular memory keys (pushing one of these keys transfers a number into the memory).
Behind the keyboard is a green fluorescent display. Text above the display reads: SHARP EL-8131 SHARP (/) ELSI MATE / ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR. A jack for a power adapter is on the back edge and an on/off switch on the left side.
The back of the calculator has a compartment for two AA batteries. A paper sticker inside this compartment reads: 98397296. A mark below this reads in part: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) EL-8131. It also reads in part: SHARP CORPORATION BM (/) MADE IN KOREA. Also listed on the back is U.S. patent number 3571655. This patent was granted in 1971 and assigned to Sharp.
The calculator has a black leatherette carrying pouch with a metal snap. One side of the carrying pouch has a loop so that it could be worn on a belt.
References:
[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, August 14, 1977, p. H31. Sharp EL-8131 advertised as on sale for $12.95.
[Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, November 29, 1978, p. B17. Sharp EL-8131 advertised as selling for $12.95.
Location
Currently not on view
Credit Line
Gift of John B. Priser
date made
1977-1978
ID Number
1986.0988.132
accession number
1986.0988
catalog number
1986.0988.132
Object Name
electronic calculator
Other Terms
electronic calculator; Handheld
Physical Description
plastic (case; keys; display cover; carrying case material)
metal (circuitry; snap material)
Measurements
overall: 3/4 in x 3 in x 5 in; 1.905 cm x 7.62 cm x 12.7 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_334546