50 Facts About HP

The Humble Beginnings of HP

Hewlett-Packard, commonly known as HP, has a rich history that began in a small garage. This section explores the early days of HP and its founders.

1. Hewlett-Packard was founded on January 1, 1939, by Bill Hewlett and David Packard, two recent electrical-engineering graduates of Stanford University.

2. The garage where HP was founded is now known as the "Birthplace of Silicon Valley." This humble abode marked the beginning of a technological revolution that would change the world.

3. HP's first product was the audio oscillator Model 200A, which was purchased by Walt Disney Productions for use in the making of the film Fantasia in 1940.

Contributions During Wartime

HP played a significant role during World War II, contributing to military technology. Their efforts during this period were crucial for both the company and the war effort.

4. During World War II, HP developed products for military applications, including counter-radar technology and advanced artillery shell fuses. This work was crucial enough to merit David Packard a draft exemption, while Bill Hewlett served in the Army Signal Corps.

5. After the war, Packard took charge of the company's business operations, while Hewlett led its research and development efforts. The company diversified its product line and introduced the high-speed frequency counter in 1951, which was used in FM radio and television broadcast stations.

Growth and Expansion

Post-war, HP experienced significant growth, expanding its product line and acquiring other companies to diversify its offerings.

6. In 1957, HP raised money by issuing public stock to fund the development of new products. This move helped the company expand its product line through strategic acquisitions.

7. HP began acquiring companies to diversify its product line. One of its earliest acquisitions was the F.L. Moseley Company, a maker of graphic recorders, in 1958. The company also acquired the Sanborn Company in 1961 to enter the medical-instrument market.

8. In 1964, HP engineers flew around the world with its cesium beam HP 5060A instrument to synchronize the globe’s atomic clocks to within one-millionth of a second, gaining international recognition for its instrumentation.

Innovations in Calculators

HP revolutionized personal computing with the introduction of desktop and pocket-sized calculators, making complex calculations accessible to everyone.

9. In 1968, HP introduced the first desktop calculator, which revolutionized personal computing and eventually led to the development of pocket-sized calculators.

10. In 1972, HP unveiled the first pocket-sized calculator, which was priced at one-sixth the cost of the original desktop unit. This innovation forced the obsolescence of the slide rule and further cemented HP’s position in the technology industry.

Military Expertise and Leadership

HP's contributions to military technology and leadership roles in defense further solidified its reputation as a key player in the tech industry.

11. Although HP never developed weapons systems, its instrumentation played a crucial role in military technology. In 1969, David Packard was appointed deputy secretary of defense by President Richard Nixon, overseeing the development of jet fighter programs like the F-16 and A-10.

The Company Split

In 2015, HP made a strategic decision to split into two entities, allowing each to focus on its core strengths.

12. In November 2015, HP split into two entities: HP Inc. and Hewlett Packard Enterprise. This move allowed each company to focus on its core strengths—HP Inc. on hardware and software, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise on storage, servers, and tech services.

Product Diversification

HP has a diverse range of products, from personal computers to printers, and continues to innovate in various tech sectors.

13. HP produces a wide range of products, including personal computers, printers, software, cloud products, digital cameras, scanners, and mobile phones. The company offers various top-notch products perfect for individuals and business utility.

Commitment to Sustainability

HP is dedicated to reducing its ecological footprint and promoting sustainability through various initiatives.

14. HP is committed to sustainability and aims to reduce its ecological footprint. The company encourages recycling efforts and produces energy-efficient products. As of June 2020, HP sourced over 1.7 million pounds of ocean-bound plastic material.

Focus on Education

Understanding the importance of education, HP invests heavily in providing tech solutions for schools and educational institutes.

15. HP understands the importance of education in improving innovation and invention. The company invests heavily in providing tech solutions for schools and educational institutes. Most of HP’s tech solutions are designed to support modern learning settings.

Customer Support and Quality

HP is known for its extensive customer support and the durability of its products, ensuring a loyal consumer base.

16. HP provides extensive customer support through its official website, call centers, and approved service providers. Users can easily find troubleshooting guides, drivers, and software updates, making the help services hassle-free and reliable.

17. HP products are renowned for their quality and durability. The company thoroughly tests its products to ensure they meet high standards before distribution. This commitment to quality has earned HP a loyal consumer base globally.

Advanced Security Features

In today's tech world, security is paramount. HP prioritizes security with advanced features to protect user data.

18. Given the evolving cyber threats in today’s tech world, HP prioritizes security. The company offers advanced security features, including encryption, secure boot, and biometric authentication, to safeguard users’ data and confidentiality.

Diverse Workforce

HP values diversity and inclusion, believing that a diverse workforce fosters innovation and creativity.

19. HP values diversity and inclusion among its employees. The company believes that a diverse workforce fosters different perspectives and fresh ideas, which are essential for innovation and creativity. HP promotes equal opportunities and strives to create a helpful and inclusive work environment.

Innovation and Market Leadership

HP's commitment to research and development has consistently driven innovation, making it a leader in the IT industry.

20. HP has an outstanding innovation record, driven by its commitment to research and development. The company has consistently introduced groundbreaking products and technologies that have shaped the IT industry.

21. Hewlett-Packard is the highest PC supplier in the United States, delivering up to 22.7% of personal computers to individuals and businesses.

Global Impact and Import Data

HP's products are in high demand worldwide, with significant import data reflecting its global reach.

22. According to Volza’s Global Import data, the world brought in a staggering 451,400 shipments of HP laptops in 2023. These shipments were brought in by 7,718 importers from 6,433 suppliers.

23. Most HP laptops were imported from China, the United States, and Singapore. The country that imports the highest number of HP laptops is India, with 390,108 shipments. Peru and Vietnam follow closely with 15,849 and 10,298 shipments, respectively.

24. The top three product categories for HP products imports have HSN codes 84713010, 8471300000, and 84713020.

HP's Legacy

From a small garage to a global tech giant, HP's journey is a testament to innovation, quality, and sustainability.

25. HP’s first big break came when it scored a contract to create tech gear for Disney’s Fantasia movie. This contract marked HP as a serious player in creating IT hardware.

26. HP has always been committed to research and development. The company has introduced numerous groundbreaking products, including the high-speed frequency counter and the low-frequency function generator.

27. HP’s product line rapidly expanded in the 1950s with the introduction of the high-speed frequency counter and the low-frequency function generator. This period saw significant growth for the company, with production increasing three times over in 1951 compared to the previous year.

28. In 1951, HP’s net sales were $5.5 million, and the company began with 215 employees but ended the year with 519 employees. This rapid growth was spurred by World War II-funded research and the rapid evolution of electronic technology.

29. In 1958, HP introduced the sampling scope, another landmark invention that further expanded its product line. This period of rapid innovation and growth cemented HP’s position as a leader in the technology industry.

30. Military sales during the Korean War boosted HP’s revenues significantly. The company’s instrumentation played a crucial role in military technology, contributing to its growth and success.

31. In 1957, HP raised money by issuing public stock to fund the development of new products. This move helped the company expand its product line through strategic acquisitions and investments.

32. HP began acquiring companies to diversify its product line. One of its earliest acquisitions was the F.L. Moseley Company, a maker of graphic recorders, in 1958. The company also acquired the Sanborn Company in 1961 to enter the medical-instrument market.

33. In 1964, HP engineers flew around the world with its cesium beam HP 5060A instrument to synchronize the globe’s atomic clocks to within one-millionth of a second, gaining international recognition for its instrumentation.

34. In 1968, HP introduced the first desktop calculator, which revolutionized personal computing and eventually led to the development of pocket-sized calculators.

35. In 1972, HP unveiled the first pocket-sized calculator, which was priced at one-sixth the cost of the original desktop unit. This innovation forced the obsolescence of the slide rule and further cemented HP’s position in the technology industry.

36. Although HP never developed weapons systems, its instrumentation played a crucial role in military technology. In 1969, David Packard was appointed deputy secretary of defense by President Richard Nixon, overseeing the development of jet fighter programs like the F-16 and A-10.

37. In November 2015, HP split into two entities: HP Inc. and Hewlett Packard Enterprise. This move allowed each company to focus on its core strengths—HP Inc. on hardware and software, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise on storage, servers, and tech services.

38. HP produces a wide range of products, including personal computers, printers, software, cloud products, digital cameras, scanners, and mobile phones. The company offers various top-notch products perfect for individuals and business utility.

39. HP is committed to sustainability and aims to reduce its ecological footprint. The company encourages recycling efforts and produces energy-efficient products. As of June 2020, HP sourced over 1.7 million pounds of ocean-bound plastic material.

40. HP understands the importance of education in improving innovation and invention. The company invests heavily in providing tech solutions for schools and educational institutes. Most of HP’s tech solutions are designed to support modern learning settings.

41. HP provides extensive customer support through its official website, call centers, and approved service providers. Users can easily find troubleshooting guides, drivers, and software updates, making the help services hassle-free and reliable.

42. HP products are renowned for their quality and durability. The company thoroughly tests its products to ensure they meet high standards before distribution. This commitment to quality has earned HP a loyal consumer base globally.

43. Given the evolving cyber threats in today’s tech world, HP prioritizes security. The company offers advanced security features, including encryption, secure boot, and biometric authentication, to safeguard users’ data and confidentiality.

44. HP values diversity and inclusion among its employees. The company believes that a diverse workforce fosters different perspectives and fresh ideas, which are essential for innovation and creativity. HP promotes equal opportunities and strives to create a helpful and inclusive work environment.

45. HP has an outstanding innovation record, driven by its commitment to research and development. The company has consistently introduced groundbreaking products and technologies that have shaped the IT industry.

46. Hewlett-Packard is the highest PC supplier in the United States, delivering up to 22.7% of personal computers to individuals and businesses.

47. According to Volza’s Global Import data, the world brought in a staggering 451,400 shipments of HP laptops in 2023. These shipments were brought in by 7,718 importers from 6,433 suppliers.

48. Most HP laptops were imported from China, the United States, and Singapore. The country that imports the highest number of HP laptops is India, with 390,108 shipments. Peru and Vietnam follow closely with 15,849 and 10,298 shipments, respectively.

49. The top three product categories for HP products imports have HSN codes 84713010, 8471300000, and 84713020.

50. HP has grown from a one-car garage platform to a true heavyweight in tech. With over 100 years of history, HP has become synonymous with innovation and quality. The company continues to evolve, focusing on sustainability, education, and security, while maintaining its commitment to research and development.

HP's Legacy of Innovation

HP's journey from a small garage in Palo Alto to a global tech giant is nothing short of remarkable. Founded by Bill Hewlett and David Packard in 1939, the company has consistently pushed the boundaries of technology. From creating the first audio oscillator for Disney's Fantasia to developing the first desktop and pocket-sized calculators, HP has been at the forefront of innovation. The company's commitment to sustainability, education, and security continues to shape its products and services. With a diverse workforce and a focus on quality and durability, HP remains a trusted name in the tech industry. The 2015 split into HP Inc. and Hewlett Packard Enterprise allowed each entity to focus on its strengths, ensuring continued growth and innovation. HP's legacy is a testament to the power of ingenuity and the importance of continuous innovation.