NAGRA LOSES ECHOSTAR PATENT SUIT

Swiss-based encryption specialist Kudelski, best known for its Nagra scrambling system, is predicted to triple revenues over the next ten years, according to forecasts from investment bankers Merrill Lynch. The report (dated July 16) says that thanks to recent orders from Cable & Wireless’ Optus division in Australia as well as continuing success from the likes of Echostar in the United States, growth prospects are good.

However, Kudelski on the same day confirmed it had lost a patent infringement lawsuit in the United States which could potentially cost it some $45 million (E51.3m). It is appealing against the decision. IPPV Enterprises had originally sought $22 million in damages in a suit brought against Echostar in 1999.

Kudelski was sued through its Nagravision unit and NagraStar, a joint venture between Kudelski and Echostar. IPPV is owned by Scientific-Atlanta and Maast Inc.

A Wilmington, Delaware jury ordered the two defendants to pay $15 million in damages. In a statement, Kudelski said the amount could yet be increased by as much as three-fold by the judge hearing the case.