![](https://vintage-calculator.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/abatron803.jpg)
The Abatron 803 is an early handheld calculator from around 1974. Manufactured by Business Electronics Ltd in England, it features a sleek, unique design and provides basic four-function calculations.
![](https://vintage-calculator.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/abat803s.jpg)
Specifications
The Abatron 803 measures 75mm x 148mm x 19mm and weighs 132g without batteries. It is powered by two AA batteries and has a battery life of 3-5 hours. An AC adapter can also be used to power and charge the calculator.
The Abatron uses red LED digits for its 8-digit display. Numbers are entered from the right with no leading zero suppression. Calculations are displayed from the left, with a minus sign in the leftmost digit indicating a negative number.
Simple plastic casing houses the interior components. The oversized, typewriter-style keys are recessed below the surface for a distinctive look and feel. An angled red filter provides clarity for the bright LED display.
![](https://vintage-calculator.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/abatron803b.jpg)
Features and Operation
As a basic four-function calculator, the Abatron 803 can add, subtract, multiply and divide. It also allows for a constant value to be used with any of the functions.
The logic system has some quirks. The clear key (C) will delete the last number entered, but a second press is needed to fully clear the calculator. Negative numbers up to 8 digits long can be entered and displayed properly. Input overflow is ignored rather than causing an error.
![](https://vintage-calculator.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/abatron803m.jpg)
Although limited in functions, the Abatron 803 was well built and designed for portability. Its unique style and handy slide-on case made it a robust, practical calculating option in its day. For calculator enthusiasts, it represents an interesting transitional period in electronics miniaturization and innovation.