Littelfuse Responds to Polytronics' Allegations

    DES PLAINES, Ill.--May 11, 2001--Littelfuse, Inc. responding to allegations in the press made by Polytronics Technology Corporation, announced today that it has not been notified by the Taiwanese courts regarding an injunction or pending injunction against Littelfuse products sold in Taiwan. Polytronics Technology Corporation is a Taiwanese corporation.
    Contrary to Polytronics' statements, Littelfuse is not aware of any issued Polytronics patents that cover any Littelfuse product. The patent application, which Polytronics submitted in Taiwan for surface mount PPTC (Polymer Positive Temperature Coefficient) products, has been opposed by Littelfuse and is invalid in Littelfuse's opinion in view of earlier Littelfuse patents on the same technology. Accordingly, Littelfuse has requested that the Taiwanese Patent Office refuse to grant the Polytronics patent. This matter is currently under review by the Taiwanese Patent Office. Littelfuse will supply copies of opposition documents to any third party requesting same.
    It is Littelfuse's belief that its issued patents are enforceable and it will continue to defend them. Littelfuse continues to enforce its patents in the USA and publicly announced today that it has favorably settled its lawsuit with CompUSA.