Rockwell Automation Inc. reported consolidated earnings results for the first quarter ended December 31, 2011. For the quarter, the company reported sales of $1,473.9 million, up 8% from $1,365.8 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2011. Net income was $183.3 million or $1.27 per diluted share compared to $150.1 million or $1.04 per diluted share last year, an increase of 22% on a per-share basis. Total segment operating earnings were $283.8 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2012, up from $222.0 million in the same period of 2011. Income before income taxes was $242.9 million compared to $186.7 million a year ago. Cash used by operating activities was $189.0 million compared to cash provided by operating activities of $12.6 million a year ago. Capital expenditures were $31.6 million compared to $20.3 million a year ago. The company reaffirmed earnings guidance for the fiscal 2012. For the period, the company expects sales of $6.2 billion to $6.5 billion, earnings per share of $5.05 to $5.45. The company expects the effective tax rate to be approximately 24%.