abacus, calculator, chinese inventions, mathematics

What Is a Chinese Abacus?

The Chinese abacus (abaci in plural) is an ancient mathematical tool known as “suanpan,” meaning a calculator. It is used to solve numerical problems and was commonly used in East Asia. Before the abacus was invented, early man used his fingers and toes to count. Then, as human enlightenment progressed, traders and ancient accountants started ...

Nathan Machoka

Chinese abacus with porcelain pearls.

China’s Abacus Is an Invention That Is Still Mysterious to the West

The abacus is a counting tool that has been used in China for thousands of years. It is widely used in shops, restaurants, and anywhere where bills need to be settled. The calculator has a rectangular frame made of wood, bamboo, or steel. It is assembled with rods, and is divided into two parts: the ...

Max Lu

Chinese abacus with porcelain pearls.