August 5, 2002
San Rafael, CA, USA — Today, PC Guardian, global developer of computer anti-theft devices for the enterprise, announced that Federal U.S. District Court Judge Susan Illston has issued a summary judgment order in favor of PC Guardian in a patent infringement lawsuit filed against PC Guardian by Kensington Technologies.
"We have always believed that PC Guardian's Notebook Guardian products do not infringe on Kensington patents," says the company's president, Noah Groth. "The federal court agrees."
In a written decision issued July 23, 2002, Illston determined that PC Guardian's Notebook Guardian locking mechanism does not infringe upon a patent owned by Kensington, a competing manufacturer. The judge's decision was made in response to PC Guardian's motion for summary judgment.
"This decision is a tremendous victory for our customers. The lawsuit generated numerous unfounded rumors in the marketplace that we were going out of business or that we would no longer be able to supply our customers with Notebook Guardians," says Groth. "The controversy has affected end-users, resellers, and dealers. This decision finally puts this matter to rest. We're just sorry that end-users and channel partners were forced to go through all the doubt and uncertainty this lawsuit generated."
Kensington, a subsidiary of Fortune Brands, filed a complaint for patent infringement in 2000.
The patented locking mechanism is used in four PC Guardian computer anti-theft devices: Notebook Guardian, Notebook Guardian Ultra, Notebook Guardian Slimline, and Notebook Guardian ComboLock.
"In light of this decision, I am pleased to be able to say to everyone: 'We won. The Notebook Guardian does not infringe upon Kensington's patent. Now you can buy in confidence what we consider the best notebook computer anti-theft device on the market,' " says Groth.
About PC Guardian
PC Guardian is a leading designer and manufacturer of computer and data security
solutions for corporations, resellers and distributors. Protecting corporate assets
with patented, award winning products since 1984, PC Guardian successfully
serves a wide range of businesses, including many Fortune 1,000 companies, by solving their security needs and ensuring compliance through innovative products, quality, integrity, and commitment to exceptional service and results. For more information, product availability and distribution, please visit our website at www.pcguardian.com.
