Upstream owns a patented technology, which leads to a significant improvement in a communications network having a number of stations transmitting data over a common path on a time-sharing basis. This novel technology permits closer spacing of the communications on the common path and eliminates wasted delay time. The technology has important application in such fields as cable modems, satellite communications and local area networks. The Upstream technology is protected by U.S. Patent No. 4,811,365 ("Communications System"). This technology is, in effect, incorporated into the Data-Over-Cable Service Interface Specifications (DOCSIS standard) and is employed today by cable modem manufacturers and cable service providers.

"We have retained GPCI to manage our IP portfolio because of GPCI's well-known success in licensing and enforcing other electronics and telecommunications patents," said Phillip Manno, an Upstream co-founder and the inventor of the technology. "We are confident that GPCI will succeed in enforcing our Communications System patent, which is infringed by many domestic and international companies involved in cable modem and satellite communications."

"GPC intends to offer the Upstream patent for a non-exclusive license on very attractive terms" said Alexander Poltorak, the Chairman and CEO of GPCI. "At the same time, if necessary, GPCI will vigorously enforce the patent rights of our client."