First in computer engineering is almost always a controversial topic. Historically, many products were often designed around the same time by different organizations and were introduced around the same time. Below is a list of "firsts".

First Microprocessor

Intel 4004

The first microprocessor is a subject of heated debate. Below is a number of popular candidates:

• AiResearch's MP944
• Intel's 4004
• Fairchild's PPS-25
• Texas Instruments' TMX1795

With development starting in 1968 and completing around June of 1970, the MP944 chipset is one of the earliest examples of a complete VLSI micro-computer system chipset. The MP944 is 20-bit microprocessor designed by Garrett AiResearch specifically for the Grumman F-14 Tomcat's Central Air Data Computer. The project remained classified for over 40 years. In early 1970 at least three additional microprocessors were already under development. Intel started working on the 4004 in April 1970. According to a number of source, the Fairchild's PPS-25 was initially introduced in the second quarter 1971. This would place it 2 quarters ahead of Intel's 4004 which was introduced in November 1971. TI announced, albeit never actually commercialized, the TMX1795 which is effectively TI's own implementation of Intel's 8008 - both were based on the same specifications drafted by the Computer Terminal Corporation.