Digital sues Intel

A lawsuit has been filed by Digital Equipment (DEC, Maynard, MA,

http://www.digital.com) against Intel (Hillsborough, OR, http://www.intel.com) for patent infringement. The alleged violation involves 10 microprocessor-architecture patents covering cache management, branch prediction and high-speed instruction processing.

The lawsuit maintains that Intel infringed on patented technologies to enhance performance of the Pentium, Pentium Pro and Pentium II microprocessors. An injunction is being sought that would prohibit Intel from using those Digital technologies in present and future microprocessor products. "It is our duty to protect our intellectual property rights and the benefits of our industry-leading research and development efforts," said Digital CEO Robert Palmer.