Re: Re: Communications protocol protection

Subject: Re: Re: Re: Communications protocol protection

Comments:
: : : We are currently working with an electronic system that has a central unit and several remote peripherals. We are attempting to develop our own interface for the system, and to do so we are using their proprietary communications protocol. We have not been able to find any patents on the communications protocol, and nothing in the documentation mentions a protection on the protocol. Are we in danger of violating any laws protecting their proprietary protocol? : : Don't say anything further on this site or other public lists - speak to a lawyer first. : : The other concerns you should have (other than patents, that is) is copyright and, maybe, confidential information issues. : : You may be in the clear, but more likely you aren't - there are cases going either way, and the position is different between the US and Europe. : : I have an article on reverse engineering software and hardware at: : : http://www.jenkins-ip.com/serv/serv_6.htm : : It is a couple of years old now, so treat it with caution, but it talks through a few of the infringement cases, so it will sensitise you to some of the issues. : : But it is no substitute for competent legal advice - get yourself a competent copyright lawyer! : : David C Musker : : R G C Jenkins : : www.jenkins-ip.com : Dear Mr. Musker, : You are right in the ball park, but patents may be involved here too. : M. Arthur Auslander : Auslander & Thomas-Intellectual Property Law Since 1909 : 505 Eighth Avenue, New York, NY 10018 : 212-594-6900, fax 212-244-0028, aus@auslander.com : ELAINE's Workshop (sm) : E arly L egal A dvice I s N ot E xpensive

Optional Link URL:
Link Title:
Optional Image URL:

Do not disclose any details of any patent idea. See a lawyer.
Before you post a message you must agree to the Terms of Use.