The Texas Instruments TI-59 is an early programmable calculator released in May 1977. It is the successor to the TI SR-52 with four times the number of program steps. The TI-59 was a more advanced version of the TI-58, both of which were released in May 1977. The TI-59 retailed at £249.95 compared to £99.95 for the TI-58.

They both contained new technology trademarked by Texas Instruments as Solid State Software, providing you with complete, pre-written problem solving libraries in ROM plug-in modules. They had up to 5000 program steps each, and just required the user to enter the variables. The Master Library module, which came with the calculator, contained 25 useful programmes. On the TI-59 you were also able to key in your own programmes and store the data, using up to 960 programme steps or up to 100 memories, and use the Master Library programmes as subroutines. Optional plug-in modules were available to convert your calculator into a specialised problem solver in areas such as applied statistics, surveying, aviation and navigation.

The TI-59 could also store data and programs on small cards that were read by a built-in magnetic card reader. The calculator came with a number of these cards that were pre-programmed with functions such as volume, weight and temperature conversion as well as a random number generator and more complex mathematical functions. Blank cards were also included for the user to program.

The calculator had a 10-digit LED display. It could be powered from an internal battery pack or mains supply.

There was a thermal printer/security unit, the PC-100A, which could be used to print, list or trace program steps as an aid to debugging that was available for use with the TI-59. The calculator sat on the cradle and could be locked in place with a key. The printer unit also functioned as a charging unit, and had a lockable battery compartment where you could store/charge the battery unit.

Our calculator is complete with box, manual, mains power supply, Business Decisions module, and program cards.

Manufacturer: Texas Instruments
Date: May 1977

This exhibit has a reference ID of CH6045. Please quote this reference ID in any communication with the Centre for Computing History.

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