SAN JOSE, Calif.- August 29, 2000 -3dfx InteractiveŽ Inc. (NASDAQ:TDFX)
stated today that it would vigorously defend against claims of patent
infringement made by NVIDIA Corporation in a lawsuit filed August 28, 2000.
The lawsuit was filed in the United States District Court for the Northern
District of California and concerns five NVIDIA patents. NVIDIA seeks an
injunction restraining the Company from manufacturing, selling or importing
certain of its products, as well as monetary damages.
The Company previously filed suit against NVIDIA on September 21, 1998
alleging patent infringement of patents owned by the Company relating to
NVIDIA's use of multi-texturing technology. Several hearings have been held
with respect to this matter and a decision is expected shortly as to claim
interpretation regarding those patents.
"NVIDIA's filing of a suit is clearly an attempt to force a settlement of
our existing patent infringement lawsuit against NVIDIA, and we believe
demonstrates a lack of confidence in their current defense," said Alex
Leupp, president and CEO of 3dfx Interactive. "We anticipate receiving
rulings as to claim interpretation issues in our existing lawsuit shortly,
and are committed to protecting our intellectual property and maximizing the
financial benefits of our technology for our shareholders. We regret that
NVIDIA feels compelled to resort to these kinds of tactics as a defense of
the pending litigation. 3dfx intends to vigorously defend itself against
this litigation."
About 3dfx Interactive
3dfx Interactive is a global leader in enabling the emerging age of visual
communications, and the 3D multimedia revolution in personal computers and
consumer products. With its patented and award-winning graphics accelerator
chips, boards and software, 3dfx provides the technology to create
high-impact visual experiences. The company is recognized worldwide for its
ability to bring the world's finest games, educational content, interactive
entertainment and media-rich business applications to life. 3dfx products
are available in retail stores worldwide, and through leading PC makers
including Compaq, Dell, Micron and Gateway. 3dfx has headquarters in San
Jose, Calif., with engineering and manufacturing facilities in Richardson,
Texas, Austin, Texas, and Juarez, Mexico. The company also operates
www.3dfxgamers.com, the premier online community for Voodoo owners and
gaming enthusiasts. 3dfx Interactive is available on the Web at
