# Focal

> programming language

**Wikidata**: [Q1389363](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1389363)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/FOCAL_(Hewlett-Packard))  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/focal-q1389363

## Summary
Focal is a programming language primarily associated with the HP-41 calculator, developed by Hewlett-Packard. It is distinct from the unrelated FOCAL language and was known as the "Forty One Calculator Language" or "Focal (HP-41)."

## Key Facts
- **Aliases**: Focal is also referred to as "Forty One Calculator Language" and "Focal (HP-41)."
- **Country of origin**: United States (as referenced by Q328, likely Q30, the United States).
- **Instance of**: Programming language.
- **Different from**: FOCAL, another unrelated programming language.
- **Sitelink count**: 2 (indicating limited but notable web presence).
- **Wikipedia title**: "FOCAL (Hewlett-Packard)" (English and German versions available).
- **Wikidata description**: "Programming language."

## FAQs
### Q: What is Focal, and what devices was it used on?
A: Focal is a programming language primarily used on the HP-41 calculator, developed by Hewlett-Packard. It is distinct from the unrelated FOCAL language.

### Q: How does Focal differ from FOCAL?
A: Focal is specifically associated with the HP-41 calculator and is sometimes referred to as "Focal (HP-41)." It is distinct from the unrelated FOCAL programming language.

### Q: Is Focal still in use today?
A: Focal was primarily used on the HP-41 calculator, which was discontinued in the 1990s. As such, it is no longer widely used.

### Q: Who developed Focal?
A: Focal was developed by Hewlett-Packard, the same company that created the HP-41 calculator.

### Q: What was Focal originally called?
A: Focal was originally known as the "Forty One Calculator Language" or "Focal (HP-41)."

## Why It Matters
Focal holds historical significance as one of the earliest programming languages designed for handheld calculators. It was developed by Hewlett-Packard in the United States and was used on the HP-41, a groundbreaking device that combined calculator and computer functionality. While Focal is no longer in widespread use, it represents an important milestone in the evolution of portable computing. Its development marked a shift toward more advanced calculator systems capable of executing user-written programs, paving the way for future advancements in handheld technology.

## Notable For
- **HP-41 Integration**: Focal was the primary programming language for the HP-41 calculator, a key product in Hewlett-Packard's early calculator line.
- **Distinct Naming**: Unlike the unrelated FOCAL language, Focal was specifically tied to the HP-41 and was sometimes referred to as "Focal (HP-41)."
- **Limited Web Presence**: Despite its historical importance, Focal has a relatively low sitelink count (2), indicating minimal modern online references.
- **Wikipedia Coverage**: Focal is documented on Wikipedia in English and German, reflecting its niche status in programming history.
- **Aliases**: The language is known by multiple names, including "Forty One Calculator Language," highlighting its association with the HP-41.

## Body
### Origins and Development
Focal was developed by Hewlett-Packard as part of the HP-41 calculator project. The HP-41, introduced in the late 1970s, was one of the first handheld calculators capable of executing user-written programs. Focal served as the primary programming language for this device, allowing users to create and run custom applications.

### Naming and Distinction
Focal is distinct from the unrelated FOCAL programming language. It was sometimes referred to as "Forty One Calculator Language" or "Focal (HP-41)" to clarify its association with the HP-41. This naming convention helped differentiate it from other programming languages of the time.

### Historical Significance
Focal represents an important step in the evolution of handheld computing. Its development marked a shift toward more advanced calculator systems capable of executing user-written programs. While the HP-41 was discontinued in the 1990s, Focal remains a notable example of early programming language design for portable devices.

### Documentation and References
Focal is documented on Wikipedia in English and German, with the title "FOCAL (Hewlett-Packard)." Its Wikidata entry provides additional context, including its classification as a programming language and its distinction from FOCAL. The limited sitelink count (2) reflects its niche status in modern web references.