Spansion Requests Section 337 Import Ban on Macronix Flash Memory Chips

Spansion filed a complaint Aug. 1 at the International Trade Commission, alleging violations of Section 337 by patent infringing imports of flash memory chips made by Macronix. The technology at issue relates to structure memory cells on the chips so that the cells can be put closer together, reducing costs of higher memory capacities while avoiding interference between the memory cells. According to the complaint, Macronix itself imports and sells the flash memory chips in the U.S., and the chips are also used in laptops, routers, game cartridges and game consoles imported by Acer, Asus, Belikin, Netgear and Nintendo. Spansion is seeking a general exclusion order banning entry of Macronix flash memory chips that infringe its patents. In the alternative it is asking for limited exclusion and cease and desist orders against each respondent.