HP Computers: A Timeline of Ownership and Evolution

HP, or Hewlett-Packard, is a company with a rich history dating back to 1939. Founded by William R. Hewlett and David Packard, this company has left an indelible mark on the technology industry. This article explores the ownership history and significant acquisitions that have shaped HP and its computer lines over the decades.

Early Founding and Initial Success

1939: The Founding

HP was established in 1939 by Bill Hewlett and Bill Packard in their garage in Palo Alto, California. Initially, the company focused on designing and manufacturing signal generators and test-measurement instruments. Their early success in this field laid the foundation for the company's growth and eventual foray into the computer industry.

Public Offering and Initial Market Entry

1957: Going Public

HP became a public entity in 1957, allowing for greater expansion and investment in new technologies. This was a critical moment in the company's development, as it provided the necessary resources and financial backing to pursue other avenues beyond their initial focus on test and measurement equipment.

The Computer Revolution

1965: Venture into Computers

Although late to the market, HP quickly recognized the potential of the burgeoning computer industry. In the late 1960s, the company began designing and building their own computers. This involved not only the hardware but also the fabrication of Central Processing Units (CPUs), a move that solidified HP's commitment to innovation and technology leadership.

Strategic Acquisitions and Growth

1990s: Expansion through Acquisitions

HP's growth continued into the 1990s with strategic acquisitions. In 1999, Compaq purchased Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC). Later, in 2002, HP itself acquired Compaq. Through these acquisitions, HP expanded its product range and market presence, particularly in the personal computer market.

2000s: Further Consolidation

Further consolidating its position, HP acquired Tandem Computers in 2001 and EDS (Electronic Data Systems) in 2008. These acquisitions helped HP to diversify its offerings, enhancing its capabilities across a wide range of computing and technology services.

Reorganization and Split

2015: The Split

The turn of the century saw significant changes within the tech industry, and HP was no exception. In 2015, the board and shareholders decided to break the company into three separate entities: HP Inc., HP Enterprise (HPE), and a newly formed entity called DXC (now dubbed Coforge).

HP Inc. continued to focus on personal computers, printers, and related accessories. HPE was created to specialize in servers, networking products, and managed services. The new company DXC (formerly CDW-G) focused on delivering technology services and solutions in areas like cloud computing and data management.

Endnote

From its humble beginnings in a garage to becoming a global leader in technology, HP has undergone numerous changes and strategic decisions. Each acquisition and reorganization played a crucial role in shaping the company into what it is today. The evolution of HP and its computer products reflects the broader shifts in the technology industry over the decades.