Analog Devices Wins MEMS Microphone Patent Case

23rd November 2010

Analog Devices

ES Admin

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Analog Devices, Inc., a global leader in high-performance semiconductors for signal-processing applications, announced today that the U.S. International Trade Commission ruled decisively against Knowles Electronics.

Administrative Law Judge Robert K. Rogers, Jr. concluded that Knowles’ patents were invalid. As a result, Judge Rogers determined that Analog Devices should not be prohibited from importing or selling its microphones.

This ruling followed his March 24th order denying Knowles’ request for temporary relief. Judge Rogers’ two rulings are consistent with the position taken by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, which in separate reexaminations, has rejected all of Knowles’ asserted claims as invalid.

“Since bringing our first MEMS microphone products to market in 2008, ADI has maintained our focus on innovation and providing the highest performance MEMS microphones available. Our products are designed for many applications where small size and great sound quality go hand in hand,” commented Mark Martin, Analog Devices’ Vice President, MEMS/Sensor Technology Group. “We are gratified that Judge Rodgers has twice agreed with our position in this matter.”

Separately, Analog Devices has sued Knowles for shipping microphone products which infringe ADI’s patented Wafer Anti-Stiction Application (WASA) process. Judge Rogers is expected to rule on the WASA case on or before January 4, 2011.

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