Graphics-chip maker Trident Microsystems says chipset maker Via Technologies is to blame for its recent quarterly loss of $3.8 million. For the year, Trident's sales dropped 21 percent to $89.3 million, and its loss widened to $12.2 million from $5.1 million in fiscal 1998.

Trident chairman and CEO Frank Lin blamed two "setbacks" for preventing Trident from reaching the break-even point - both associated with the company's tumultuous relationship with Via.

According to Lin, chipsets integrating Trident's CyberBlade core with Via's core logic hurt Trident's stand-alone graphics chip sales, and Via also withheld payment due Trident as part of a revenue-sharing agreement.

Trident has filed suit in a U.S. federal court against Via, charging the company with patent infringement, fraud, and breach of contract.

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