HP was originally called Hewlett-Packard.
The company, one of the pioneering technology firms, was founded by William (Bill) Hewlett and David (Dave) Packard. Established in 1939 in a garage in Palo Alto, California, it began by producing a line of electronic test and measurement equipment, laying the groundwork for Silicon Valley's future.
Evolution of the Hewlett-Packard Brand
For many decades, Hewlett-Packard became synonymous with innovation in various technological fields, including:
- Electronic Test and Measurement Equipment: Their initial product, an audio oscillator, was famously bought by Walt Disney Studios.
- Calculators: Revolutionizing personal computing with scientific and programmable calculators.
- Computers: From minicomputers to personal computers, HP played a crucial role in the computer revolution.
- Printers: Becoming a dominant force in the global printer market.
The company's full name, Hewlett-Packard, was consistently used until a significant restructuring in the 21st century.
The Historic Split: From Hewlett-Packard to Two Entities
In a major corporate transformation, the original Hewlett-Packard company underwent a strategic separation in 2015, resulting in the creation of two distinct publicly traded companies. This restructuring aimed to allow each new entity to focus more intently on its core business areas and respond more agilely to market demands.
The split was structured as follows:
- HP Inc. retained the personal computer and printer businesses, continuing the legacy of HP's consumer-facing products.
- Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) took over the enterprise-focused products and services, including servers, storage, networking hardware, and technology consulting services for businesses.
Effectively, the original Hewlett-Packard company changed its name to HP Inc. and simultaneously spun off Hewlett Packard Enterprise as a separate, independent public company. This strategic move reshaped the landscape of one of the world's most enduring tech giants.
Key Milestones in HP's Naming
| Year | Event | Entity Name(s) |
|---|---|---|
| 1939 | Company Founded | Hewlett-Packard |
| 2015 | Strategic Split | HP Inc., Hewlett Packard Enterprise |
For more information on the current entity that carries the HP name for personal computing and printing, you can visit HP Inc. on Wikipedia.
