What calculator did Sam Fujiyama use on Quincy, M.E.?

In many lab scenes, Sam is seen using a calculator that looks like an old-school Hewlett-Packard. Was it really an HP, and do we know the model?Great catch — and yes, the calculator Sam Fujiyama frequently used in the Los Angeles Coroner’s lab does appear to be a vintage Hewlett-Packard (HP) model. Fans and vintage tech sleuths have identified it as likely being from the HP-67/97 series — two legendary programmable calculators designed for professional use.

The HP-67 was a handheld scientific calculator, introduced by Hewlett-Packard in 1976 and discontinued in 1982. Its counterpart, the HP-97, was introduced in 1977 and discontinued in 1984. The HP-97 was a desktop version of the 67, complete with a built-in thermal printer and a larger keypad. Both calculators featured magnetic card readers for program storage and used Reverse Polish Notation (RPN) — a system embraced by engineers and scientists for its efficiency but considered puzzling to the uninitiated.

Collectively referred to as the HP-67/97 series, these models were widely used in laboratories, hospitals, and universities throughout the late ’70s and early ’80s, making them a realistic and era-appropriate choice for Sam’s character — the lab’s meticulous forensic assistant.

Though the show never provides a clear close-up, scenes showing the calculator’s distinctive red LED display and keypad layout strongly suggest it was either an HP-67 or HP-97, both emblematic of high-end technical equipment of the time.

Fun Fact: The HP-67/97 line was among the most advanced personal computing tools available before desktop computers became mainstream — yet another detail that subtly underscored Sam’s role as Quincy’s sharp, scientifically-minded right hand.

Bonus trivia: HP calculators of this era used Reverse Polish Notation (RPN), a distinctive input method favored by scientists but confusing to most casual users — yet another subtle nod to Sam’s deep technical knowledge and precision!