> Well, one of the more interesting patents that Microchip has is the "n-bit
> databus in n-pin package". Which means that if your microcontroller has a
> databus of 8 bits, then you can't put it into a package of only 8 pins (or
> less, I believe, if I read the patent correctly... I had fun looking it up
> earlier this week). This basically protects all 8-pin (and smaller) that
> Microchip makes. Given the fact that they have that particular patent, I am
> pretty certain that they have other patents as well.

Worse:  if you want to put a powerful 32-bit core into a 28-pin
package, that patent will let Microchip sue you!  Or a 16-bit into
14-pin package, etc.

<rant>
In fact, that's how that patent was brought up on the list:  they ARE
suing someone for putting a 32-bit core into a 28-pin package. 
Exactly the kind of IP BS shell game that drives me nuts and allows
companies to use our political system to circumvent true competition
and subvert innovation.
</rant>

After all, if you can stick a 32-bit ARM proc in where previously only
an 8-bit PIC or AVR would fit, that gives you access to a whole new
realm of power, doesn't it?  But since Microchip owns the patent, your
choices are limited to the 8-bit or to reworking your design to fit
some monster part plus it's NVRAM and SRAM in.

Grrrrrrrrr.

Mike H.

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