EMC, the maker of storage computers, facing the retirement of chief executive Joseph Tucci and activist pressure, is exploring strategic options that could include a full or partial sale, or a spinoff of VMware Inc.

EMC Corp, the world’s biggest maker of storage computers, cut its 2006 profit and revenue forecast after the company couldn’t produce enough machines to meet demand.

THE world’s biggest maker of data storage systems, EMC Corp, has said fourth-quarter profits fell 54% due to the costs of cutting 1,000 staff and of return company income from overseas.

EMC Corporation, the world’s number three maker of computer data-storage machines, had a first-quarter profit because of an increase in services revenue and demand for new products.

EMC CORP’S losses narrowed despite revenue declining as the world’s largest maker of computer data-storage machines reduced research, selling and administrative costs.