Wang suit alleges patent violations by Microsoft Corp

Article Abstract:

Wang Laboratories Inc sues Microsoft Corp and Watermark Software Inc, alleging the two companies violated two recent Wang patents. The Wang patent issued Jul 7, 1992 covers a microcomputer-based document scanner and processor. The other, issued Apr 27, 1993, covers object managers, in which chunks of software correspond with chunks of data. The specific Microsoft and Watermark products that allegedly infringed on the patents are unclear. Wang filed the suit Jul 30, but issued no public statement. Neither Microsoft nor Watermark would comment on the suit. One source says Wang and Microsoft have held preliminary talks that might lead to a settlement. Wang is scheduled to emerge from bankruptcy protection in the fall of 1993. The company has a history of successful patent-infringement suits.

Prepackaged software, Computer peripheral equipment, not elsewhere classified, Computer software industry, Software industry, Microsoft Corp., MSFT, Word processing software, Wang Laboratories Inc., Lawsuits, Patent, WANC, Object-Oriented Data Bases, FileNet Corp. Watermark Business Unit

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Digital finds glitch in new computer, prompting it to retrofit every machine

Article Abstract:

DEC announces that it is retrofitting its VAX 9000 mainframe computer because of some new technical problems. Industry observer's note that the glitch is a setback for the new mainframe computer, which is a critical product expected to bring in more than $1 billion in revenue by Jun 30, 1991. DEC states that the glitch causes the system to 'crash' every few days when certain applications are used. The retrofitting includes the installment of new multichip circuits, which are expected to be completed in Jan 1991. The VAX 9000 is DEC's first plunge into the mainframe computer market where it has to compete with companies such as IBM.

Product defects and recalls, Mainframe computers, Product recalls, Digital Equipment Corp., DEC, Mainframe Computer, DEC VAX 9000 (Mainframe computer), Product Recall, Retrofitting

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Prime Computer broke antitrust law, federal jury rules in Detroit trial

Article Abstract:

A federal jury in Detroit finds that Prime Computer Inc violated antitrust laws. Such cases are increasingly common in the computer and office equipment industries. In this case, Virtual Maintenance Inc, a computer maintenance company, charged that Prime had unfairly excluded it from doing business with Prime's customers. The jury found that Prime's practice of tying software updates needed by the company's customers to the purchase of computer maintenance from Prime unfairly excluded independent firms. The jury awarded $8.4 million, which will be tripled under antitrust law.

PRM, Antitrust Laws, Court Cases, Prime Computer Inc.

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