Dell Expects to Post Higher Revenue, Profit

Dell Computer Corp. said strong personal computer sales to schools, government and consumers are expected to boost fiscal second-quarter revenue to $8.3 billion, up from the $8.2 billion the company had predicted in May.

Because the company continues to win market share from competitors, Dell said it expects to report earnings of 19 cents a share in the quarter ending Aug. 2. Analysts surveyed by Thomson First Call expected 18 cents.

If Thursday’s prediction holds, Dell earnings would rise 19% from year-earlier results and revenue would rise 9%. Dell is scheduled to announce results Aug. 15.

Dell made the announcement after markets closed. The stock gained 26 cents to $23.93 in regular Nasdaq trading, and rose as high as $25.40 after hours.