Rapid Data Rapidman 800
Distinctive features: Low-cost hand-held calculator, achieved by using a one-piece injection moulding for the whole casing and keyboard, and a low-functionality "calculator on a chip" integrated circuit.
Technical details:
Display 8 digits, red LED.
Four-function - Fixed decimal point (2 places of decimals).
Integrated circuit - Mostek MK5010P "calculator on a chip", & 24 transistors.
Power supply - 9v (PP3).
Size - 80 x 137 x 23 mm (3.15" x 5.4" x 0.9").
Introduced February 1972, cost just under US$100 / GBP£40.
Rapid Data Systems & Equipment Ltd., Made in Canada.
The two main parts of the calculator:
This was a very low-cost calculator - the first sub-US$100 / sub-GBP£40 electronic calculator.
This was achieved by using a single "calculator on a chip" integrated circuit, a low-cost keypad design, and an ingenious one-piece polypropylene moulding for the case incorporating the front, the back, the key caps, and the battery compartment cover. But this does give it a very cheap feel.
Rapid Data manufactured several innovative electronic calculators in the early 1970s, including one of the first with Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), the Rapidman LC1208.
Text & photographs copyright, except where stated otherwise, © Nigel Tout 2000-2025.
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