Universal Data Machine TKB 0001 Handheld Electronic Calculator

Object Details

Universal Data Machine Corporation

Description

This handheld electronic calculator has a cream-colored case and an array of eighteen "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 and another as a difference key for subtraction. The top of the keyboard has a constant switch, a D key for recalling the display (it turns off after several seconds), a clear entry key, and a red clear key. The eight-digit red LED display is behind the keyboard. An on/off switch and a socket for a cord for recharging the battery are at the top back. This example has no cord.

The back has four plastic feet. A paper sticker there reads in part: ELECTRONIC CALCULATOR (/) MODEL TKB 0001 (/) SERIAL: A 05777 (/) VOLTS: 7.2V, DC (/) MFG. IN UNITED STATES BY (/) Universal Data Machine (/) Corporation (/) 4611 N. Ravenswood St. (/) Chicago, Ill. 60640.

This is one of the earliest commercial handheld electronic calculators manufactured in the United States.

Compare to the Bowmar 901B (1986.0988.129) and the Craig 4501 (1987.0435.25).

References:

Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, CA: Wilson/Barnett, 1997, p. 174. This source indicates that the calculator was advertised in late 1972 as selling for $99.95.

[Advertisement], Chicago Tribune, July 18, 1972, p. 13. This advertisement gives a regular price of $179.95 and a sale price of $149.95.

Location

Currently not on view

Credit Line

Gift of John B. Priser

ca 1972

ID Number

1986.0988.078

catalog number

1986.0988.078

accession number

1986.0988

Object Name

electronic calculator

Other Terms

electronic calculator; Handheld

Physical Description

plastic (case; keys; display cover material)

metal (circuitry; keyboard material)

paper (sticker material)

rubber (feet material)

Measurements

overall: 1 1/2 in x 3 in x 5 1/2 in; 3.81 cm x 7.62 cm x 13.97 cm

place made

United States: Illinois, Chicago

See more items in

Medicine and Science: Computers

Computers & Business Machines

Handheld Electronic Calculators

National Museum of American History

Record ID

nmah_334492

Metadata Usage (text)

CC0

GUID (Link to Original Record)

https://n2t.net/ark:/65665/ng49ca746ae-26f4-704b-e053-15f76fa0b4fa