VLSI Technologies vs Intel

"Patent Infringement Battle: VLSI vs Intel Over Semiconductor Technology"

Short Description :

VLSI Technology LLC sued Intel Corporation for infringing on patents related to semiconductor technology, leading to a significant damages award and ongoing litigation.

Case Background :

VLSI Technology LLC, a patent holding company controlled by Fortress Investment Group, sued Intel Corporation for infringing on two patents related to semiconductor technology.

Patents Involved

The patents in question are U.S. Pat. Nos. 7,523,373 and 7,725,759, which relate to minimum memory operating voltage techniques and clock speed management in electronic devices, respectively.

Initial Verdict :

A Texas jury awarded VLSI $2.175 billion in damages, with $1.5 billion attributed to one patent and $675 million to the other.

Appeal and Ruling :

The US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit overturned the damage award and remanded the case for a new trial to determine the appropriate damages. The court found that the evidence supporting the $1.5 billion claim was insufficient and that the doctrine of equivalents had not been met for the $675 million claim.

Current Status :

The case is ongoing, with Intel arguing that its license agreement with Finjan, another company controlled by Fortress, covers VLSI's patents and negates the infringement claims. A recent trial focused on whether VLSI and Finjan are under common control by Fortress, which could impact the validity of Intel's license defense.

Implications :

The case has significant implications for patent law and intellectual property litigation, particularly regarding the doctrine of equivalents and the calculation of damages