Avago Technologies sues STMicroelectronics over optical mouse patents

Avago Technologies sues STMicroelectronics

SAN JOSE, Calif. — Avago Technologies said Tuesday that it has filed a lawsuit against STMicroelectronics NV, one of the world’s top analog chip makers, alleging infringement of four patents covering optical navigation technology.

The lawsuit was filed March 15 in U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas.

Avago’s general counsel, Patricia McCall, said in a statement that Avago has “devoted significant resources to inventing, developing and progressing the technology that enables the optical mouse. When necessary, we will defend our intellectual property against infringement.”

Avago’s chips are used in wireless communications products, wired communications infrastructure, industrial and automotive electronics, and consumer computer peripherals. The company’s main offices are in Singapore and San Jose, Calif.

STMicroelectronics spokesman Michael Markowitz said the company intends to defend its rights “vigorously” but he declined further comment. The company is based in Geneva.

Avago shares rose 11 cents to $20.33 in afternoon trading, while U.S.-traded shares of STMicroelectronics fell 19 cents to $9.75.