Court stands up to DMCA - Chamberlain v. Skylink
A US Federal Judge has rejected a claim under the DMCA to outlaw a
competing garage door opener. Judge Pallmeyer ruled against Chamberlain
Group's argument that Skylink's universal garage door opener was an
illegal circumvention device, stating that a homeowner has a legitimate
expectation that she will be able to open the garage door if her
Chamberlain transmitter is missing or malfunctions. The Court noted
amici briefs filed by CCIA and Consumers Union, which pointed out the
stifling effect the DMCA has on innovation and competition under
Chamberlain's theory. The Court's Order, which denied part of
Chamberlain Group's motion for Summary Judgment, is available at the source link above.
