How do you build an Chinese abacus?

Answer 1

Well that depends, there are several different kinds, They have the old style, still used by the die-hards (older Chinese communities) which refer to the 2/5, in Japan its the same only they have the 1/5 style, for that matter, both Nations use the 1/5. In japan its called a Soroban, in China its called a Suan-Pan. You have to make the choice, Its really simple; you have a frame,(the size depends on you and the size of your beads) as an example lets say 16" wide x 12" tall x 2" deep. you will have a beam separating an upper & lower decks, put the beam 1/3 down from top, (4"), now measure to equally space 13 rods both in the upper & lower decks, on these rods you will place your beads, If you choose to go with the older style, 2 beads per rod in the upper deck & 5 beads per rods in the lower deck. To me this is more appealing than the modern style of 1/5. NOTE: you can buy shadow frames and take out the glass.

Answer 2

1. • Measure and mark 1½ inches from each end of each wood slat for a total of two marks on each slat. Measure 1 inch from the top dot on each slat and mark, then continue measuring and marking in 1-inch increments until you reach the last dot. Drill a hole completely through each marking. You should now have two slats that have 10 holes each.

   • 2

     Measure and mark 2 inches in from each end of one wood block. Apply the wood glue to each mark and attach the slats so that are standing vertically on their ends. Allow to dry completely. Apply wood glue to the tops of the vertical slats and set the last wood block on top. You should now have a full square. Allow to dry completely.

   • 3

     Starting with the bottom slat holes, insert one dowel rod into the one hole about an inch, then thread 10 plastic or wooden beads onto the rod piece, lengthening the rod to accommodate all 10 beads as needed. Insert the remaining end through the slat hole on the opposite side. Apply glue to each rod insertion point on both sides of the slat and allow to dry.

   • 4

     Repeat this entire process for the remaining dowel rod pieces and beads.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're unsure about the diameter of your beads, slide beads onto the dowel rod pieces prior to insertion. If there are "sticking points" on the rod, sand the entire surface with fine grit sandpaper to ensure smoother bead movements.

Answer 3

This is a simple way to build one with cheap, easily acquired materials.

http://www.geocities.com/learner_center/abacus.html