Hewlett-Packard

Introduction:

Hewlett-Packard is one of the largest corporations in the world. Hewlett Packard is divided into three general segments: imaging and printing systems, computing systems, and information technology services. After acquiring Compaq Computer Company, HP is currently the world’s largest computer company. HP is a growth oriented corporation that strives to stay ahead in all of its market segments.

History:

HP was started by two electrical engineers who graduated from Stanford University in 1934. During a two-week camping trip, following graduation, Bill Hewlett and Dave Packard became close friends. Bill continued his education, taking graduate courses at MIT while Dave worked at General
In 1974 HP introduced the first minicomputer that used DRAM chips instead of magnetic cores. HP also gave the world the first programmable pocket calculator which some regard as the world’s first handheld computer. In 1975 HP created a system to allow electronic instruments to interface with one another easily. In 1977 John Young is named president of HP, but Bill remains CEO and Dave remains chairman of the board. HP introduced a wrist watch that was a calculator and personal calendar. Dave made his first trip to China, accepting an invitation extended by Chinese officials. 1977 also marked the first year that HP recognized a revenue of over $1 billion with $1.4 billion. It had also expanded to 35,062 employees by 1977. In 1978 Bill retired as CEO and was succeeded by John Young. HP saw revenues of $2.4 billion in 1979 and had increased employee figures to 52,030.

The 1980’s were especially kind to HP. HP became a major player in the personal computer market. In 1980 HP introduced its first PC and the first laser printer that was fast and inexpensive enough to make it practical for use outside of central computer rooms. In 1981 HP formally made products available in the Chinese market. In 1982 HP introduced the first wide-area network on “minicomputers”. HP also introduced its first handheld computer this same year. Compaq computers is started in 1982, which will grow to be a leading computer