What are Topography Rights?

An automatic right protecting against copying of the shape and layout of chip circuitry design. The right applies to semi-conductor products I.e. products with electronic functions containing semi-conducting material, and of fixed functional pattern. This definition applies to all computer chips currently manufactured and is sometimes termed “mask works”.

Key Issues

• Must be original and non commonplace
• There must be a copy of the circuitry layout design written down, which provides proof of date of design.
• Valid for either ten years after first marketed, or 15 years after recording the design.
• Rights are available in the UK, US and Japan

Why have Topography Rights?

• Provides essential protection increasingly valuable and complex chip design.
• Provides automatic protection and no registration or other formalities required.
• Revenue can be generated through sale or license of the design, manufacture and sale of the chip.
• Ensures strong competitive advantage, due to complex nature of topography designs.