[2] It documented and explored the personal computer as it grew from its infancy in the early 80s to its rise in the global market at the turn of the 21st century.

The series was created[4] by Stewart Cheifet (later the show's co-host), who was then the station manager of the College of San Mateo's KCSM-TV (now independent non-commercial KPJK).

Gary Kildall, founder of the software company Digital Research, served as Cheifet's co-host from 1984 to 1990, providing insights and commentary on products, as well as discussions on the future of the ever-expanding personal computer sphere.

Computer Chronicles had several supporting presenters appearing alongside Cheifet, including: The Computer Chronicles format remained relatively unchanged throughout its run, except perhaps with the noticeable difference in presenting style; originally formal, with Cheifet and the guests wearing business suits (with neckties) customary in the professional workplace in the early 1980s, it evolved by the 1990s into a more relaxed, casual style, with Cheifet and guests adopting the "business casual" style of dress that the Silicon Valley computer industry arguably helped pioneer.

Beginning in 1984, the last five minutes or so featured Random Access, a segment that gave the viewer the latest computer news from the home and business markets.