What was the first invention that uses "computer like" technology? first thing not run by gears and pulleys or any physically seen and commonly understood function. etc. (not a light bulb) How was it discovered? What was the first step… was it the radio?

I think you need to put additional some boundaries on this question. For instance, radio tubes were an accidental discovery when light bulb operation was being examined. So, while the light bulb is "commonly understood", does that make radio tubes "commonly understood" since they are directly derived from light bulbs?

Even today, most computers include a hard disk drive that uses an electric motor to spin the disks and electric fans to keep it cool (desktops). Does the inclusion of electric motors make the computer "commonly understood"?

If you’re looking for some of the first all-silicon electronics for consumers, you might consider the first hand-held calculators (e.g. HP-35) or LED watches (you had to press a button to see the time!).

Maybe you can re-phrase this question so we can get you an answer…