A calculator is a specific device that can perform arithmetic operations on numbers. It can perform calculations ranging from basic arithmetic to complex mathematics.
In 1642, the mechanical calculator was invented by Wilhelm Schickard and later by Blaise Pascal, the French mathematician.
At that time, a mechanical calculator could perform only four arithmetic calculations with minimal human intervention.
The calculator created by Pascal, known as Pascaline or Arithmetic calculator, was the first adding machine.
It could only perform addition and subtraction, while numbers needed to enter by manipulating its dials; hence, it was the first mechanical calculator.
A basic calculator can perform only subtraction, addition, division, and mathematical multiplication calculations.
However, there are various other calculators that can do different complicated calculations, like normal and inverse trigonometric functions.
In 1820, a device created by Thomas De Colmar became the first commercially viable counting device. However, the emergence of electronic calculators occurred not before the 1960s.
Different Types of Calculators
There are mainly five main types of calculators that we use today, such as:
Graphic Calculator.
Basic Calculator.
Scientific Calculator.
Financial Calculator.
Printing Calculator.
Examples of Calculators
There are different examples of calculators, such as:
Basic Calculators:
A basic calculator is referred to as a calculator with four functions. It can perform simple arithmetic calculations, like addition, multiplication, subtraction, and division. Generally, we use a basic calculator in our house to perform our general calculations.
Scientific Calculator:
Students of trigonometry, algebra, or geometry mainly use these types of calculators. Most students need to use this in their high school.
Financial Calculator:
A financial calculator is geared towards calculating finances. You can have one to determine mortgage payments, interest rates, and cash flows. These uncommon calculators are useful for accountants, realtors, and financial advisors.
Printing Calculators:
With this type of calculator, figures and numbers are printed on a piece of paper that can be ripped off at the top. This printing calculator is great for those who need to work with money.
Phone Calculators:
These types of calculators can be found on our phones as we need to perform mathematical calculations.
Online Calculators:
These types of calculators can be found online. Most PCs and laptops have calculators that you can use.
Electronic Calculator:
An electronic calculator can solve complex problems. Graphic and scientific calculators fall into this category. They need lithium batteries and circuit boards to work.
Solar Power Calculators:
These calculators work with solar power’s help.
Pocket Calculators:
These slim calculators can fit in your pocket with ease.
Applications of Calculators
In Schools: Most students need to use a basic and a scientific calculator in their school lives to perform different types of mathematical functions.
Engineering And Medical Field: The engineering and medical field students need to use a specific type of calculator to increase their knowledge and easily complete their calculations.
Binary Functions: A specific kind of calculator is required to perform binary functions.
Trigonometric Functions: Calculators are important in performing different types of trigonometric calculations.
Hyperbolic Functions: Calculators help perform various types of hyperbolic functions.
Windows Calculator: In Windows, a calculator can help you to perform tasks, such as converting currency, calculating dates, and many more.
Therefore, here we have provided some important pieces of information regarding a calculator that can help you a lot.
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