The counterclaims assert that Lexra does not infringe MIPS' patents, requests that the patents referred to in the MIPS suit filed Oct. 28 be declared invalid and seeks legal remedies against MIPS for unfair business practices and interference with Lexra's business relations, said Charlie Cheng, president and chief executive officer of Lexra (Waltham, Mass.).

Cheng told EE Times earlier this month that Lexra was considering a countersuit in response to the recent patent infringement lawsuit MIPS had filed against Lexra.

"No one likes to be sued especially on something that is groundless," said Cheng. "We want to protect our product and our business against something that is unfair and we want to be sure the court upholds our reputation."

Cheng said Lexra is requesting a "declaratory judgement," so even if MIPS drops its suit against Lexra the court must decide definitively whether or not Lexra's cores infringe MIPS patents.