News Release

HP Launches hp 49g+ Graphing Calculator: First of Three New Graphing Calculators.

PALO ALTO, Calif., Oct. 20, 2003

HP (NYSE:HPQ) today announced the hp 49g+ graphing calculator, the flagship of a new line of powerful graphing calculators to be launched this fall.

Built for scientists, engineers, mathematicians, surveyors and students who need portable calculating power, the HP 49g+ graphing calculator performs more than 2,300 functions and has 2.5 megabytes of total memory including 2MB of flash ROM, of which 800KB is available to the user. Priced at suggested retail of $175.99¹, the calculator also allows for future electronic upgrades via an included USB cable*. "The hp 49g+ is a powerful tool for professional engineers or college students who prefer the RPN entry mode of calculating ," said Fred Valdez, general manager, calculators, HP Personal Systems Group. "We've taken the original hp 49g and made it smarter, faster and more robust."

In addition to the efficient RPN(2) (Reverse Polish Notation) entry mode, the hp 49g+ offers optional algebraic and textbook entry modes, a user-friendly Computer Algebra System (CAS) for dynamic equation solving, a fast flexible editor, 131 x 80 pixel screen and 3D graphics. The hp 49g+ is designed to sit comfortably in the hand, has top-quality keys and its high-contrast display presents sharply defined fonts and graphics.

Within the next several weeks, HP will be launching three additional new calculators: two graphing and one scientific. The two yet-to-be-launched graphing calculators, together with the hp 49g+, will provide a complete range of graphing calculators expected to fulfill the needs and budgets of a broad spectrum of calculator users. The hp 17bII+ financial calculator was launched Sept. 23.

"Since inventing the world's first handheld scientific calculator in 1972, this year marks the most active launch schedule in HP calculator history," Valdez said. "By year's end HP will have a broad line of 11 scientific, graphing and financial calculators designed to meet the needs of calculator users."

The hp 49g+ will be available in late October at retailers throughout the United States and Latin America and can be purchased online in the U.S. at www.hpshopping.com in late October. Availability at retailers in Europe and Asia Pacific is expected in early October. For product-specific details, please visit hp 49g+.

HP offers a comprehensive range of calculators designed for math and science students, engineers, scientists and financial and business consultants. More information about HP's entire range of calculators is available at http://www.hp.com/calculators. Also available on this website are step-by-step learning modules for HP's current range of calculators.

*A PC with an Internet connection is required. Please purchase separately. USB cable included. HP makes no representation that a future upgrade will be available.

^* Reverse Polish Notation. See more information.

¹ Manufacturer's suggested retail price. Retailer prices may vary. Prices shown in U.S. dollars, does not include applicable sales tax and shipping and is subject to change or cancellation without notice.