Computer Access Technology Corp. v. Catalyst Enterprises, Inc.

ORDER

On January 10, 2003, the Court heard argument on defendant Catalyst Enterprises’s motion for a new trial or, in the alternative, renewed motion for judgement as a matter of law. Carla B. Oakley and Scott Bonagofsky appeared on behalf of Computer Access Technology Corporation; William Gallagher, Paul Kirsch, Marc Go-relnik and K.T. Cherian appeared for Catalyst Enterprises. Having considered the arguments of counsel, the papers submitted, the applicable law, and the record in this case, the Court hereby GRANTS Catalyst Enterprises motion for a new trial for the trademark, willfulness and unfair competition under federal and state law. The Court also grants a new trial for the trade dress and copyright claim.

I. BACKGROUND

A. Factual Background and Procedural History

1. Factual Background

Plaintiff Computer Access Technology Corporation (“CATC”) and Defendant Catalyst Enterprises, Inc. (“Catalyst”) both sell products that enable developers of devices and communication channels to test and analyze the compatibility of the computer and of their respective products with a specific communication channel. Such products are known as protocol analyzers. The instant case arises…