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  • The HP 45: A “Shift” in Technology

The HP 45: A “Shift” in Technology

HP 45 calculator with carrying pouch and owner's handbook in front of a plastic storage case. Enlarge
The back of the HP 45 calculator, with carrying pouch and owner's handbook in front of a plastic storage case. Enlarge
The HP 45 calculator (left and top face). Enlarge
The HP 45 calculator (right and top face). Enlarge
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Date: 1973

The HP 45 was the first scientific calculator to feature a “shift” key that expanded the calculator’s functions. The device also featured one of the earliest known “Easter eggs”: a stopwatch feature that could be accessed by entering a special code. The stopwatch feature was originally intended to be a function of the device, but Hewlett-Packard chose not to include it in the advertisements or user manual upon deciding it wasn’t up to their meticulous standards of accuracy.

Tags: 1970s • 1973 • Calculator • portable

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