Broadcom Answers Rival’s Patent Suit With Its Own Filing on Infringement

Irvine communications chip maker Broadcom Corp., accused of improperly using National Semiconductor Corp.’s patented technology, filed court papers contending it is the one whose patents were infringed.

Broadcom, the biggest maker of cable-modem chips, says that National Semiconductor, based in Santa Clara, stole technology related to ethernet products, according to court documents. Broadcom made the allegation in a court filing in National Semiconductor’s suit against Broadcom.

In May, National Semiconductor, which makes semiconductors for cell phones and PCs, filed a federal lawsuit in Sacramento, accusing Broadcom of making and selling microchips that infringed on its patents related to networking equipment. Broadcom said it didn’t believe National’s patents applied to its current products.

Broadcom is seeking damages and a court order blocking National Semiconductor from selling any infringing products. Officials couldn’t immediately be reached for comment.

Broadcom shares rose 25 cents to $19.77, while National Semiconductor shares rose 56 cents to $20.95, before news of the suit was released.