Power management systems allow PC displays to consume less power after user-defined or default idle periods. Under the agreements, Hitachi obtains a license under the patents in Elonex s worldwide patent portfolio, and becomes Elonex s agent to grant further licenses to Japanese computer, monitor and printer companies. The more particular terms of the agreements are confidential. Elonex s portfolio encompasses a range of patents covering modular computing, PDAs and printer power management, as well as the monitor power management technology covered by U.S. Patent Numbers 5,389,952 and 5,648,799 .
Displays typically consume a significant portion of the power used in a desktop computer system.
Elonex s Commercial Director, Mr. Michael Spiro, said that the agreement marks an important step in Elonex s licensing program. We currently have no presence in Japan from which to base potential technology dealings with the Japanese firms who are so important in the industry. We are delighted that the arrangement will enable us to have the immediate benefit of Hitachi s formidable Intellectual Property Office in this endeavour. The company designs, manufactures, markets and supports a complete range of desktop PCs, notebooks, and network servers. It also provides computer support services encompassing system specification, configuration, installation and maintenance.