From X-bit Labs: Micron Technology, one of the world’s largest makers of dynamic random access memory, and Rambus, a developer of memory-related technologies, on Monday announced they have signed a broad patent cross license agreement. As part of this agreement, the two companies have settled all outstanding patent and antitrust claims, and the agreement covers both Micron and Elpida products.
“This milestone agreement puts years of legal disputes behind both companies and opens doors for future cooperation. We continue to focus on developing innovative technology and furthering our more open, collaborative relationship with the broader industry,” said Ron Black, president and chief executive officer at Rambus.
Under the agreement, Micron gains the right to use any Rambus patent for the manufacture of specified integrated circuit products, including any memory integrated circuit products. Certain of these memory products will enjoy a perpetual, paid-up license after the end of the initial term. The agreement requires quarterly royalty payments to Rambus over the next seven years capped at $10 million per quarter, with a rolling twelve-month cap fixed at $40 million, or $280 million during the initial term. In addition, Micron will have the option to extend the initial term of this agreement for additional renewal periods.
As part of this agreement, the two companies have settled all outstanding patent and antitrust claims, and the agreement covers both Micron and Elpida products. Other terms and details of the agreement are confidential.
"The industry is at an important juncture with the emergence of memory systems and solutions, and Micron is ideally positioned to capitalize on this trend," said Mark Durcan, chief executive officer of Micron.
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