Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE:A) today announced that on Jan. 17, 2012, its board of directors approved the initiation of quarterly cash dividends to its shareholders and declared the first cash dividend in the company's history.

A quarterly dividend of 10 cents per share of common stock will be paid on April 25 to all shareholders of record as of the close of business on April 3. The timing and amounts of future dividends are subject to determination and approval by Agilent's board.

"The actions taken yesterday by our board of directors are a reflection of Agilent's financial strength and continuing growth opportunities," said Bill Sullivan, Agilent president and CEO. "We are very pleased to have initiated a quarterly cash dividend, which, combined with our ongoing stock repurchase program, underscores our commitment to enhance shareholder value and return."

About Agilent Technologies

Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) is the world's premier measurement company and a technology leader in chemical analysis, life sciences, electronics and communications. The company's 18,700 employees serve customers in more than 100 countries. Agilent had net revenues of $6.6 billion in fiscal 2011. Information about Agilent is available at www.agilent.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements as defined in the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and is subject to the safe harbors created therein. The forward-looking statements contained herein include, but are not limited to, information regarding the company's liquidity position, ability to generate cash from operations, and stock repurchase program. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that could cause Agilent's results to differ materially from management's current expectations. Such risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, the ability to execute successfully through business cycles; ongoing competitive, pricing and gross-margin pressures; the risk that our expense management initiatives will impair our ability to develop products and remain competitive and to operate effectively; the impact of geopolitical uncertainties and global economic conditions on our operations, our markets and our ability to conduct business; and other risks detailed in Agilent's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended Oct. 31, 2011. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs and assumptions of Agilent's management and on currently available information. Agilent undertakes no responsibility to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement.

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Agilent Technologies Inc.
EDITORIAL CONTACT:
Amy Flores, +1-408-345-8194
amy_flores@agilent.com
INVESTOR CONTACT:
Alicia Rodriguez, +1-408-345-8948
alicia_rodriguez@agilent.com