Calculator

A calculator is a device for performing numerical calculations. The type is considered distinct from both a calculating machine and a computer in that the calculator is a special-purpose device that may not qualify as a Turing machine. Although modern calculators often incorporate a general purpose computer, the device as a whole is designed for ease of use to perform specific operations, rather than for flexibility.

Electronic calculators

Today most calculators are handheld microelectronic devices, but in the past some calculators were as large as today's computers. The first mechanical calculators were mechanical desktop devices, which were soon replaced by electromechanical desktop calculators, and then by electronic devices using first thermionic valves, then transistors, then hard-wired integrated circuit logic.

Related Topics:
Computers - Mechanical calculator - Thermionic valve - Transistor - Integrated circuit

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A pocket calculator is a small battery-powered or solar powered electronic digital computer made possible by integrated circuit and semiconductor technology.

Related Topics:
Integrated circuit - Semiconductor

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Typically they are limited to an 8–10 digit single-number display and a few basic functions of arithmetic, but some modern calculators have more of the features of a general-purpose computer. Pocket calculators rendered the slide rule obsolete.

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Calculators vary in their capabilities. Some are limited to only basic arithmetic; others support trigonometric, statistical and other mathematical functions. The most advanced modern calculators are programmable, can display graphics, and include features of computer algebra systems.

Related Topics:
Trigonometric - Statistical - Mathematical functions - Computer algebra system

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