EZ Abacus Tutor
The EZ Abacus
Tutor is an computer-driven easy way to learn how to use an abacus.
The mechanism hooks up to your computer and is controlled by the included
software. The software explains to you how to use the abacus onscreen
while it demonstrates on the mechanized abacus. You can follow along
on the second, included abacus (conveniently located in the easy-storage
slot of the mechanism). The software teaches you addition, subtraction,
multiplication, and division using the abacus. These lessons are
customizable: you can choose specifically what you want to learn
at each session, you can let the computer choose based on your previous
performance, or you can start off with the “basics” if you are a
beginner. If you are having difficulty with a specific problem, you
can have the computer walk you through it step by step. The program
will test you at the end of each session, and will review on occasion,
as desired.
The EZ Abacus
Tutor is constructed of quality wood with a red oak finish. The inner
mechanisms are sealed off with Plexiglas™ to make it safe for children
(so they can’t get their hands caught in the mechanisms), and you can easily
watch the abacus work.
How It Works:
The abacus uses a pair of
printer mechanisms: one on top and perpendicular to the other.
On top of the upper mechanism is a solenoid, which activated the mechanical
finger that moves the beads. The actual abacus lays flat on top of
four posts, with the mechanisms that control it underneath it. The
“student” abacus sits in a slot behind the mechanized one.