In 1939, two Stanford University graduates, Bill Hewlett and Dave Packard, set up a small electronics company in a one-car garage in Palo Alto, California. They called their venture “Hewlett-Packard” or “HP” for short. Little did they know that this humble beginning would pave the way for one of the world’s most influential and innovative technology companies.
Today, HP is a global leader in personal computers, printers, and other technological devices, with a strong presence in over 170 countries. With a rich history of groundbreaking products and revolutionary advancements, HP has established itself as a household name and a pioneer in the tech industry. In this article, we will take a closer look at the evolution of HP and how it has shaped the technology landscape.
Early Days: The Birth of HP

The Founders: Bill Hewlett and Dave Packard
Bill Hewlett and Dave Packard were classmates at Stanford University who shared a passion for electronics. After graduation, they decided to start their own business and set up shop in a garage owned by Packard’s family in Palo Alto. They started with an initial investment of $538 and used the space to build electronic testing equipment.
The iconic garage where HP was born is now considered a historical landmark and a symbol of the company’s beginnings. In 1989, HP even turned the garage into a museum to honor its founders and the company’s early days.
The Birth of the First Product: An Audio Oscillator
HP’s first product, the HP Model 200A Audio Oscillator, was created to test sound equipment. It quickly gained popularity due to its superior quality and affordable price. Walt Disney Productions was one of HP’s first customers, buying eight oscillators to use in the production of their movie “Fantasia.”
This success encouraged Hewlett and Packard to continue their business venture, and they officially founded HP in 1947. The company’s first headquarters was an old house in Palo Alto, which they shared with a bowling alley.
Expansion into Other Industries: From Oscillators to Calculators
In the 1950s, HP expanded its product line by introducing electronic measuring instruments such as voltmeters, frequency counters, and signal generators. These products were used in various industries, including aerospace, defense, and medical research. HP also started manufacturing its own components, giving them more control over the quality and price of their products.
In 1968, HP made its first foray into the computer industry by introducing the HP 9100A, a desktop calculator that could perform scientific and business calculations. This marked the beginning of HP’s dominance in the personal computing market.
Innovation and Growth: Pushing Boundaries and Setting Trends

Introducing the First Personal Computer: HP-85
In 1972, HP introduced the first-ever personal computer, the HP-85. It was a complete desktop system with a keyboard, monitor, and printer, all in one unit. This groundbreaking device set the standard for personal computers and solidified HP’s position as an industry leader.
Inkjet Printing Technology: A Game-Changer for Printers
In 1984, HP revolutionized the printing industry with its inkjet technology. This innovative printing method allowed for high-quality prints at a lower cost. HP’s DeskJet printer became a household name and is still popular today.
HP continued to improve and innovate its printing technology, introducing the LaserJet printer in 1984, which quickly became the industry standard for laser printing.
Mergers and Acquisitions: Expanding into New Markets
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, HP made several strategic mergers and acquisitions to expand its product line and enter new markets. In 1986, it acquired Apollo Computer, a leading manufacturer of workstations and servers. This move allowed HP to enter the fast-growing UNIX market.
In 1995, HP merged with computer company Convex, further expanding its presence in the high-performance computing market. The following year, HP acquired Electronic Data Systems (EDS), a global information technology services company, to strengthen its services division.
The Rise of the iPAQ: HP’s First Handheld Device
In 2000, HP launched its first handheld device, the iPAQ Pocket PC, which ran on Microsoft’s Windows operating system. This was HP’s answer to the popular PalmPilot, and it quickly gained traction among business professionals.
The iPAQ evolved over the years, with new models offering more storage, faster processors, and additional features such as wireless connectivity. However, HP eventually discontinued the line in 2011 due to fierce competition from smartphones and other handheld devices.
Diversification and Adapting to the Changing Market

Entering the Tablet Market: The TouchPad
In 2011, HP entered the tablet market with the launch of the HP TouchPad, running on its own operating system called webOS. However, the TouchPad failed to make a significant impact and was discontinued after just six weeks in the market.
A Shift in Focus: From Hardware to Software and Services
In recent years, HP has shifted its focus from hardware to software and services. In 2014, it split into two separate companies – HP Inc., which handles personal computers and printers, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), which focuses on software, services, and enterprise solutions.
This strategic move allowed both companies to focus on their respective markets and adapt to the changing technology landscape. It also enabled HPE to invest in emerging technologies such as cloud computing, big data, and analytics.
HP Today: A Global Technology Giant with a Social Mission
Sustainability Efforts: A Commitment to the Environment
HP has always been committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. In 2007, it became the first major computer company to achieve a recycling goal of one billion pounds of electronic products. It continues to prioritize sustainability by developing eco-friendly products, reducing waste, and increasing energy efficiency.
Social Impact: Giving Back and Empowering Communities
Besides its technological innovations, HP is also known for its social impact initiatives. The company has a dedicated Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) program that focuses on empowering underprivileged communities and promoting STEM education.
In 2019, HP pledged to have a positive impact on 100 million lives by 2025 through its technology, reach, and partnerships. This demonstrates its commitment to making a difference and using technology for good.
FAQs
Q: What does HP stand for?
A: HP stands for “Hewlett-Packard,” named after its founders Bill Hewlett and Dave Packard.
Q: When was HP founded?
A: HP was founded in 1939, but it was officially incorporated in 1947.
Q: Where is HP’s headquarters located?
A: HP’s headquarters is located in Palo Alto, California, United States.
Q: What is HP’s most popular product?
A: HP’s most popular product is its line of personal computers, specifically the HP Pavilion and HP Envy models.
Q: How many employees does HP have?
A: As of 2021, HP has approximately 55,000 employees worldwide.
Conclusion
From a small garage startup to a global technology giant, HP has come a long way in its more than 80-year history. Its legacy of innovation, groundbreaking products, and socially responsible initiatives has made it a household name and a leader in the tech industry.
As technology continues to evolve, HP will undoubtedly continue to push boundaries and shape the future of technology. With its strong commitment to sustainability and social impact, HP’s influence goes beyond its products, making a positive impact on society and the world at large.