Object Details
- Texas Instruments
- Description
- This programmable scientific calculator, introduced in 1977, is more powerful than the TI 57 and TI 58, which were introduced at the same time. It has a black plastic case and an array of forty-five rectangular plastic keys, most of which can assume a dual function. The calculator could be operated manually by pressing keys. It could run a variety of preprogrammed routines from a module inserted in a compartment in the back of the case. Programs could also be entered using a set of keys and stored in one of ten locations (denoted by the letters A through E and A’ through E’). Finally, programs could be entered on magnetic cards inserted into a slot in the right side of the calculator. Fuller instructions for programming are given in a detailed manual that accompanied the calculator (see 1990.3166.01).
- A mark below the keyboard reads: TI Programmable 59 (/) Solid State Software. Behind the keyboard is a space that would hold a label for a program from a program module. Behind this is a ten-digit display (it may also show eight digits and a two-digit positive or negative exponent). An on/off key is at the back and a jack for a power supply is on the right side.
- A mark on the back of the calculator reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator (/) SERIAL NO. (/) 05404761 LTA3577 (/) ASSEMBLED IN USA. Below this is a compartment for a battery pack. A sticker inside it is labeled: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) BATTERY PACK BP-1A. Below this is a compartment for a program module, with no module.
- The calculator has a black zippered case with a belt loop. This case has number 1990.0609.01.1. Also included is a black Texas Instruments power adapter (a model AC 9131) with a date stamp of 7709 and number 1990.0609.01.2. A plastic wallet holds the Master Library module, a set of labels for use when using programs on that module, and a pamphlet entitled Programmable TI58/59 Master Library Quick Reference Guide (1990.0609.01.3). A second plastic wallet hold the Leisure Library module, a set of labels for use when using programs on that module, and a pamphlet entitled Programmable TI58/59 Leisure Library Quick Reference Guide (1990.0609.01.4).
- For the printer for the calculator, see 1990.0609.02. For related documentation, see 1990.3166.
- Compare 2007.0179.02 (another TI 59 with printer).
- References:
- “Power of Its Pocket Calculators Increased by Texas Instruments,” New York Times, May 25, 1977, p. 89. Suggested list price of new Programmable 59 to be $299.95.
- [Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, December 10, 1977, p. E3. Programmable 59 in stock, holiday sale price $219.95.
- [Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, September 27, 1980, p. OC_C14. TI Programmable 58C on sale for $112.95.
- [Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, September 27, 1980, p. OC_C14. TI Programmable 59 on sale for $219.95.
- [Advertisement], New York Times, November 7, 1982 p. 64. TI Programmable 59 selling for $169.95.Rebate of $20 from manufacturer brings price down to $149.95. PC100C printer also $149.95.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- Credit Line
- Gift of Doug Girling
- 1977
- ID Number
- 1990.0609.01
- catalog number
- 1990.0609.01
- accession number
- 1990.0609
- Object Name
- electronic calculator
- Physical Description
- plastic (case; carrying case; wallets; labels material)
- metal (circuitry material)
- paper (manuals material)
- Measurements
- average spatial: 1 1/2 in x 3 in x 6 1/4 in; 3.81 cm x 7.62 cm x 15.875 cm
- See more items in
- Medicine and Science: Computers
- Computers & Business Machines
- Handheld Electronic Calculators
- National Museum of American History
- Record ID
- nmah_1065591
- GUID (Link to Original Record)
- https://n2t.net/ark:/65665/ng49ca746a9-1879-704b-e053-15f76fa0b4fa
