The chief executive, Philip Bowman, said he expects to meet analysts' forecasts this year.

The results met Wall Street's forecasts but its stock price fell 56.25 cents, to $18.875.

The result met analysts' forecasts but reflected a slowdown in demand for business software.

Only Apple, which competes for a different segment of the market, managed to meet its forecasts as well.

The increase met analysts' forecasts and was bigger than September's gain.

But the sales still have not met the company's optimistic forecasts, Mr. Moore said.

Although earnings met analysts' forecasts, revenue growth was slower than many had expected.

Its revenue rose, but failed to meet Wall Street's forecasts.

Compaq said it reduced its operating expenses by $100 million last quarter but was unable to meet its forecasts.

In three previous quarters, the company has failed to meet its forecasts.