Townsend’s history is inextricably linked to the history of the semiconductor industry and the development of Silicon Valley. Our specialized knowledge and semiconductor industry insight is a valuable tool by which our clients can enhance their market position and claim a strategic advantage in this incredibly competitive industry. In addition to writing, prosecuting and managing the patents, we counsel clients with recommendations for asserting patents, make suggestions for refinements to sharpen patent coverage in order to target rival threats, and develop strategies for prioritizing protection throughout the world.
We also guide our clients through challenging “design around” efforts to avoid patents as they maneuver to develop products, processes or methods that are equal or superior to offerings by rivals without copying or infringing. For example, Townsend attorneys helped a small microprocessor company develop a successful comprehensive strategy for introducing an industry-compatible microprocessor that would avoid liability. Our team reviewed the design as it was being created in order to avoid infringement problems. We also identified significant inventions and prepared and filed patent applications on key aspects of the new technology, leapfrogging the efforts of potential competitors.
Townsend’s semiconductor expertise extends well beyond patent procurement. We partner with our Technology Licensing Practice Group and our Litigation Practice Group to evaluate, license, enforce and defend patents in negotiations and litigation. Our firm has successfully negotiated licenses, cross-licenses and technology transfer agreements for and against some of the world’s largest semiconductor, electronics and computer companies.