Hi, All,
The Google has failed to illuminate me. I have a handful of what look
like 1970s 8-digit calculator modules with National Semiconductor
logos and 1975/1976 manufacturing dates. Both types of modules have
the 8-bubble plastic digit magnifiers common for LED calculators of
the era, but one has 6 digits-worth of diodes behind the plastic, and
the other 8 digits. Both have the same external profile and number of
off-board solder pads, but different numbers of pads going to places
under the epoxy blob that protects the IC. One of the modules just
has "650" in copper at the edge of the board, the other has M830
stamped in the same sort of ink/paint that has the NS logo and the mfg
date.
I know National Semi made lots of LED modules back in the day. I have
a few simple digits and was able to find docs on them without much of
a search. These are a puzzle. The ones with 8 digits installed are
very possibly calculator modules. I've never seen this sort of
display with only 6 digits out of 8 populated. I have no idea what
they are, but one tangental Google hit suggests they could be DVM
modules, but I supposed they could be clock modules or counter
modules.
If anyone would have a mid-1970s or perhaps early 1980s National
Semiconductor databook that covers LED displays, that might have some
info. I do not (I only have NS memory/logic books).
Thanks for any hints or tips,
-ethan