Object Details
- Texas Instruments
- Description
- This compact, light desktop printing electronic calculator has an array of nine light gray digit keys at the center, with a zero bar and decimal point key below this. On the left are clear, percentage, division, multiplication, and equals keys. On the right are total, #/S, subtraction, and addition keys. Above the digit keys are memory, F/A, and arrow keys. Behind the keys is a paper tape to print entries and results on special thermosensitive paper. This is the only display of entries and results.
- A mark behind the printer reads: TI-5050M. A mark at the front reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS. A mark on the bottom reads: TEXAS INSTRUMENTS (/) electronic calculator (/) MODEL TI-5050M (/) SERIAL NO. (/) 9418428 MTA5078 (/) ASSEMBLED IN USA. Below this is a list of patent numbers that range from 3,819,921 to 4,014,013. The dates of these patents range from 1974 to 1977.
- Ball and Flamm indicate that the TI-5050M was available in 1976. In 1977 the calculator reportedly sold for $149.95. In 1980, it was advertised as costing $79.95. The second part of the serial number suggests a 1978 date.
- Compare 1987.0487.026.
- References:
- Guy Ball and Bruce Flamm, The Complete Collector’s Guide to Pocket Calculators, Tustin, Calif.: Wilson/Barnett Publishing, 1997, p. 158.
- Hyla Clark and Larry Barandes, “Desktop Calculators That Print Their Results,” Popular Mechanics, vol. 147 #4, April, 1977, pp. 187–189.
- [Advertisement], Los Angeles Times, January 12, 1980, p. D4.
- Location
- Currently not on view
- Credit Line
- Gift of John B. Priser
- 1978
- ID Number
- 1986.0988.075
- catalog number
- 1986.0988.075
- accession number
- 1986.0988
- Object Name
- electronic calculator
- Other Terms
- electronic calculator; Desktop
- Physical Description
- plastic (case; keys material)
- metal (screws material)
- paper (tape material)
- Measurements
- overall: 2 13/16 in x 3 1/2 in x 8 1/2 in; 7.112 cm x 8.89 cm x 21.59 cm
- place made
- United States
- See more items in
- Medicine and Science: Computers
- Computers & Business Machines
- Desktop Electronic Calculators
- National Museum of American History
- Subject
- Business
- Record ID
- nmah_334489
- GUID (Link to Original Record)
- https://n2t.net/ark:/65665/ng49ca746a1-3589-704b-e053-15f76fa0b4fa
