By The Associated Press
Friday, September 30, 2011
Printer maker Lexmark International Inc. on Friday said the U.S. International Trade Commission has banned 24 companies from importing off-brand laser toner cartridges for Lexmark printers.
Lexmark said the commission ruled on Tuesday that the cartridges infringe on 15 of the company's patents.
ITC's order will take effect after a two-month presidential review period, Lexmark said.
Lexmark filed the suit in August 2010.
The ITC is a six-judge panel with jurisdiction over imports and exports. It's a frequent venue for patent battles.