In a message dated 96-11-13 10:16:09 EST, you write:

>Patent implies disclosure, and is expensive, copyright can be
>applied to the circuit design, the pcb layout, the code itself.
>and best of all costs nothing. [This idea...(c) ray gardiner 1996]

Copyright can only protect the single expression of an idea...not the idea.
 For example you can copyright a pcb layout but anyone can move the traces
around, keeping the same electrical connections and will not violate your
copyright.  Patents protect ideas but are subject to the issues raised
earlier on this list (i.e. you must have deep pockets to protect your
patents, etc.).  Also, having a patent does not give you ownership of the
idea, only the right to go to court.  And if you have a patent issued but
years later someone proves prior art, etc. you have NOTHING but a big lawyers
bill.

Mark A. Corio
Rochester MicroSystems, Inc.
200 Buell Road, Suite 9
Rochester, NY  14624
Tel:  (716) 328-5850 --- Fax:  (716) 328-1144
http://www.frontiernet.net/~rmi/

***** Designing Electronics For Research & Industry *****