Mechanical calculators are devices that perform mathematical calculations using mechanical components rather than electronic ones. They often consist of gears, levers, and dials, allowing users to input numbers and obtain results through physical manipulation. These calculators were widely used before the advent of electronic calculators and computers. One of the earliest and most famous mechanical calculators is the Pascaline, invented by Blaise Pascal in the 17th century. Mechanical calculators paved the way for more advanced computing devices, influencing the design of later technologies, including electronic calculators and computers.