Hewlett-Packard Co, which yesterday reported flat second quarter profits (see page five) does have something to cheer about: Minnesota Mining & Manufacturing Co has ordered 50 HP3000 Spectrum RISC models in a contract worth more than $15m. The Models 925, 935, 950 and 955 are to replace many of 3M’s 16-bit HP3000s – it has 133 of the things – over the next 15 months, and the order is a vindication of Hewlett’s high-stakes gamble to move most of its computer product lines to the RISC.
