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• 28 Sep, 2013
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Types of Abacus, Difference Between Chinese and Japanese Abacus

Types of Abacus Instruments 

The Abacus became a buzzword in the world of after-school programs for children between 6 to 14 years of age since the start of 2000. With this began the curiosity among the parents not only about the Abacus learning but also the types of Abacus Instruments being used.
There are several types of Abacus Instruments known across the world. We can list them below:

A) Soroban or the Japanese Abacus  
B) Suanpan or the Chinese Abacus
C) Roman Abacus
D) Schoty Abacus
E) Cranmer Abacus
F) Sumerian Abacus

The Different Types of Abacus 

The Roman Abacus 

Romans used many tools to simplify calculations. It could ring from pebbles or human calculators. Gerbert d’ Aurillac (Pope Sylvester I) introduced the Roman Abacus in the 11th century. The Abacus was later reconstructed as a portable device with eight long grooves made up of beats and tracks. It is also known as the Wax abacus.

Sumerian Abacus 

Sumerian Abacus was created sometime in history between 2700 and 2300 B.C. A single frame with multiple columns and beads is organized into 60 bases.

Schoty, or The Russian Abacus 

The Russian Abacus is one of the most versatile abaci. Also known as Schoty or counting beads, it is also called the Russian Abacus. It was created in the 17th century to help with currency calculations and business transactions.
The frame of the basic Schoty is made from wood or metal. The basic Schoty frame has 11 rows and ten beads. The eighth row only has four beads. Each fifth bead is also painted in a different color. The difference is that it doesn't have columns and the Schoty beads are different colors.

Cranmer Abacus