Computer Associates jets past estimates

Software maker Computer Associates International, Inc. (NYSE: CA) screamed past Wall Street's expectations Tuesday with first quarter operating earnings of $249 million, or 49 cents a share, on sales of $1.22 billion.

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.