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Toshiba BC-0802

Date of introduction:  1972 Display technology:  Fluorescent
New price:   Display size:  8
Size:  8.4" x 5.0" x 2.1"    
Weight:  1 pound 12 ounces Serial No:  F62224
Batteries:   Date of manufacture:  year 1972
AC-Adapter:  220V Origin of manufacture:  Japan
Precision:  8 Integrated circuits:  TMS0112
Memories:      
Program steps:   Courtesy of:  Joerg Woerner

On a first glance the Toshiba BC-0802 looks like most other desktop calculators like the TI-3000, Canon L100S and the Heathkit IC-2008.

The keyboard with the [+=] key and the constant switch makes a design using the single-chip calculator technology introduced by Texas Instruments possible. A good reason to disassemble the robust machine !

The Toshiba BC-0802 uses a green VFD (Vacuum Fluorescent Display). BC-0802_DISP.jpg (30602 Byte)
The VFD is assembled with 8 single tubes, typical for Japanese desktop calculators. BC-0802_VFD.jpg (62270 Byte)
Dismantling the BC-0802 is a simple job, the keyboard uses a connector to the main PCB (Printed Circuit Board). Each key uses a small magnet and a Reed contact. Made for a long life. BC-0802_KBD.jpg (158920 Byte)
The main PCB consists of four areas: The VFD, the Driver electronics a power supply and the single-chip calculator circuit in the 28-pin housing. BC-0802_PCB.jpg (221465 Byte)
A deeper look onto the TMS0112 gives a big surprise ! The chip was manufactured in Japan by Toshiba itself. Please notice the small J (Japan) in the TMS0112NCJ designation. BC-0802_IC.jpg (24002 Byte)

The BC-0801B uses similar technics in a somewhat smaller housing, the later BC-0808B reduced weigh by more than 50%.

Don't miss the BC-1011 using more than 20 integrated circuits for similar specifications.


If you have additions to the above article please email: joerg@datamath.org.

© Joerg Woerner, May 18, 2002. No reprints without written permission.