Object Details
- distributor
- Commodore Business Machines, Inc.
- Bowmar/Ali
- Description
- This handheld electronic calculator has a white case with black trim and metal keyboard, and eighteen square plastic "Klixon" keys. Such keys have a design trademarked by Texas Instruments and make a distinctive click when pressed. In addition to ten digit and one decimal point key, the calculator has four keys for arithmetic functions. One serves as a total key for addition, another as a difference key for subtraction. The top of the keyboard has a constant switch, a D key for recalling the display (which turns off after fifteen seconds), a clear entry key, and a red clear key. The on/off switch is below the keyboard along with a switch for setting the position of the decimal point.
- The eight-digit red LED display is behind the keyboard. A cord for recharging the battery attaches at the back of the top. (This example has no cord.)
- The back has four plastic feet. A metal plate there gives operating instructions. Text near the bottom reads: COMMODORE BUSINESS MACHINES, INC. (/) MODEL MM-1 (/) SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA (/) MADE IN U.S.A.
- This was one of the first models of a handheld calculator sold by Commodore. It was manufactured by Bowmar/Ali and is similar to the Bowmar 901B.
- Compare 1986.0988.098 (the Commodore Minuteman 2) and 1988.0988.129 (the Bowmar 901B).
- References:
- Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 57.
- Los Angeles Times, March 14, 1972, p. C5. Advertised as selling for $179. “Now you can face this year’s taxes with confidence.”
- Location
- Currently not on view
- Credit Line
- Gift of John B. Priser
- ca 1972
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.099
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.099
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Object Name
- electronic calculator
- Other Terms
- electronic calculator; Handheld
- Physical Description
- plastic (case; keys; display material)
- glass (tube material)
- metal (circuitry; keyboard material)
- Measurements
- overall: 1 1/2 in x 3 1/2 in x 6 in; 3.81 cm x 8.89 cm x 15.24 cm
- place made
- United States
- See more items in
- Medicine and Science: Computers
- Computers & Business Machines
- Handheld Electronic Calculators
- National Museum of American History
- Record ID
- nmah_334513
- GUID (Link to Original Record)
- https://n2t.net/ark:/65665/ng49ca746ae-1bf1-704b-e053-15f76fa0b4fa
