| | A '''calculator''' is a device for performing arithmetical operations, such as [[addition]] or [[multiplication]]. Most present-day calculators are [[electronics|electronic]] devices, but the first calculators were mechanical. One of the first calculators was designed by [[Blaise Pascal]]. | | A '''calculator''' is a device for performing arithmetical operations, such as [[addition]] or [[multiplication]]. Most present-day calculators are [[electronics|electronic]] devices, but the first calculators were mechanical. One of the first calculators was designed by [[Blaise Pascal]]. |
| − | Later, electromechanical calculators were constructed. Electronic calculators, first using [[vacuum tube]]s, then [[transistor]]s, and finally [[integrated circuit]]s ("chips"), have become small, cheap devices, that often have the capabilities of a full-fledged [[computer]]. | + | Later, electromechanical calculators were constructed. Electronic calculators, first using [[vacuum tube]]s, then [[transistor]]s, and finally [[integrated circuit]]s ("chips"), have become small, cheap devices, that often have many of the capabilities of a full-fledged [[computer]]. |