Areas of revenue growth at the Palo Alto, California-based company included mobile computers, multifunction printers and colour laser printers, mainstream servers and managed services. High-end servers grew only slowly and revenue from networked storage products declined.
Excluding unusual items, the company reported earnings of 37 cents per share for its second fiscal quarter, which ended April 30. That was a penny more than the average expectations of analysts surveyed by First Call and 3 cents more than last year's earnings per share.
HP's revenue of US$21.57 million was a 7 percent increase from the year-earlier period, also ahead of analysts, who expected US$21.36 billion on average.
Hurd, who took over at HP with about one month to go in the quarter, was guarded in his assessment and hinted at changes to come at the company. His predecessor, Carly Fiorina, was ousted amid pressure to pare back some operations or split the company.
"HP had a solid quarter," Hurd said in a statement. "Nevertheless, our overall performance leaves room for improvement in many of our businesses. We expect to provide details as soon as our plans are finalised that will move us toward that objective."
However, for the fiscal third quarter, HP said it expects earnings per share of 29 cents to 31 cents, lower than the 32 cents analysts had expected. Revenue is expected to range from US$20.3 billion to US$20.7 billion, while analysts expect US$20.35 billion, according to First Call.
