IBM Goes After Mainframe Maker With Patent SuitIBM Goes After Mainframe Maker With Patent Suit

In its second major patent action in as many months, IBM is suing an Intel-backed computer maker that uses a version of IBM's high-end mainframe operating system reconfigured to run atop Intel's industry-standard processors.

IBM alleges in the suit that the mainframe emulator systems offered by Platform Solutions violate patents IBM holds on its z/OS and OS/390 operating systems. Platform Solutions says on its Web site that its Intel 64-bit Itanium-based systems are fully compatible with z/OS and OS/390. IBM typically offers those operating systems only with IBM mainframes, which run its own dedicated processors.

This suit is another sign that IBM is becoming more aggressive in defending its intellectual property in an effort to increase revenue from its patent trove. In October, IBM sued Amazon.com, claiming its online sales technology violates several IBM e-commerce patents.

In the Platform Solutions suit, IBM is seeking an injunction to stop the company from selling its systems and unspecified financial damages. Platform Solutions officials maintain that the suit is without merit and that the company is conducting business as usual.