Object Details
- Texas Instruments
- Description
- This scientific calculator, introduced in 1977, is a less expensive version of the Texas Instruments programmable 58 and programmable 59 calculators. Programming is done entirely with number and function keys. A handheld electronic calculator, it has a black plastic case with an array of forty small rectangular plastic keys. In addition to ten digit keys, a decimal point key, a change sign key, a total key, four arithmetic function keys, a clear entry key, and clear key, the calculator has twenty-one further keys. Many keys (including some of the keys already specified) take on a dual function if the "2nd" key is pushed. This second function is indicated on the keyboard above the key.
- Text above the keys reads: TI Programmable 57. Behind the keyboard is an on/off switch. Text left of this reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. Behind the keyboard is an LED display that shows eight-digit positive and negative numbers and two-digit positive and negative exponents. The calculator has a jack for a recharger/adapter along the right edge. Text on the top of the back reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator (/) SERIAL NO. (/) 398411 ATA3578 (/) ASSEMBLED IN USA. Below this is a battery compartment. A sticker on the battery pack reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS BATTERY PACK BP-7.
- The object fits in a black plastic zippered case with a belt loop.
- References:
- “Power of Its Pocket Calculators Increased by Texas Instruments,” New York Times, May 25, 1977, p. 89. Suggested list price of new Programmable 57 to be $79.95.
- [Advertisement], Boston Globe, November 13, 1977, p. 71. TI Programmable 57 actually for sale at a price of $57.95.
- [Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, December 10, 1977, p. E3. Programmable 57 in stock, holiday sale price $59.95.
- [Advertisement], Boston Globe, September 7, 1978; p. 40. Regular price of TI Programmable 57 is $49.97, sale price $45.97, with $5 manufacturer’s rebate $39.97.
- [Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, September 27, 1980, p. C14. TI programmable 57 on sale for $54.95.
- [Advertisement], New York Times, November 7, 1982 p. 64. TI Programmable 57 selling for $32.95.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- Credit Line
- Gift of John B. Priser
- 1978
- ID Number
- 1987.0435.02
- accession number
- 1987.0435
- catalog number
- 1987.0435.02
- Object Name
- electronic calculator
- Physical Description
- plastic (case; carrying case; keys material)
- metal (circuitry; zipper material)
- Measurements
- overall: 1 3/8 in x 3 in x 5 3/4 in; 3.4925 cm x 7.62 cm x 14.605 cm
- See more items in
- Medicine and Science: Computers
- Computers & Business Machines
- Handheld Electronic Calculators
- National Museum of American History
- Record ID
- nmah_214326
- GUID (Link to Original Record)
- https://n2t.net/ark:/65665/ng49ca746a0-ea51-704b-e053-15f76fa0b4fa
