Further to our March 9, 2011 post, on March 30, 2011, ALJ Charles E. Bullock issued Order No. 4 in Certain Digital Televisions and Components Thereof, and Certain Electronic Devices Having a Blu-Ray Disc Player and Components Thereof (Inv. No. 337-TA-764).

According to the Order, ALJ Bullock set September 10, 2012 as the target date (which is approximately 18 months after institution of the investigation).  In the Order, ALJ Bullock agreed with the private parties and the Commission Investigative Staff that an eighteen-month target date is appropriate since this investigation “involves eight patents that cover different and complex technologies, as well as accused products with a ‘lack of identity.’”

In the Order, ALJ Bullock further indicated that he anticipates the evidentiary hearing in this matter will commence on January 23, 2012.

The Order further directs the parties to submit a proposed procedural schedule by no later than April 13, 2011.