Enterprise software maker Computer Associates screamed past Wall Street's expectations Tuesday.

It reported first quarter operating earnings of $249 million £1.56 million) , or 49 cents (30 pence) a share, on sales of $1.22 billion (£763 million). Wall Street consensus was 39 cents a share, according to First Call Corp.

In the same quarter a year ago, CA reported earnings of 41 cents a share on sales of $1.04 billion excluding charges. Including a charge of $646 million related to the recent acquisition of Platinum Technology, CA reported earnings of 34 cents a share. CA cited strong demand for its client/server products and services for the results.

In the quarter, CA saw its client/server revenue grow by 22 percent to $596 million. Services revenue jumped 133 percent to $119 million, and revenue from international operations was $373 million, up 22 percent excluding currency impacts.

CA touted its ability to quickly integrate Platinum and deliver on its e-commerce products.

Copyright © 1995-2008 CNET Networks, Inc. All rights reserved
ZDNET is a registered service mark of CNET Networks, Inc. ZDNET Logo is a service mark of CNET Networks, Inc.