Microcode and the protection of intellectual effort

ABSTRACT

We believe that the intellectual efforts of persons should be protected, but that the needs of society must be protected, too. Substantial interest in this issue, as it pertains to the protection of microcode, has prompted the preparation of this paper as a position statement to initiate discussion at the 18th International Microprogramming Workshop. We describe the relevant protection mechanisms and some of the nuances regarding them. We describe the important characteristics of microcode. Finally, we assume an advocacy position.

REFERENCES

• 1: Anawalt, H. et al.,"Protection of Computer Ideawork - Today and Tomorrow" IEEE Software, April 1984, pp. 74-82.
• 2: Stern, Richard, "Microlaw", IEEE MICRO, April 1985, pp.@- 91.
• 3: Apple Computer, Inc. v. Franklin Computer Corp., 714 F.2d 1240 (3d Cir. 1983).
• 4: Wilkes, M. V., "The Best Way to Design an Automatic Calculating Machine," Manchester University Computer Inaugural Conf.,Ferranti, Ltd., London, 1951.
• 5: Glenford J. Myers, Advances in Computer Architecture, John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New York, NY, 1982
• 6: Patterson, David. "Microprogramming", Scientific American, March 1983.
• 7: MacPberson, Alan, et al. "Microcode: Patentable or Copyrightable?" in press.

INDEX TERMS

Classification:
  D. Software
  D.2 SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
      D.2.0 General

  K. Computing Milieux
  K.5 LEGAL ASPECTS OF COMPUTING
      K.5.1 Hardware/Software Protection
          Subjects: Patents; Proprietary rights; Copyrights

General Terms:
Legal Aspects