funkyguy4000:
I don't quite get why you are already getting a patent if you don't even have a design with components down. Much of the time I'll get a great idea, think its great, start working on it and then I'll realize why it hasn't been done, b/c the needed tech isn't there.
If you weren't sure of what goes into make a PC USB interface on a design level, I don't understand why you would go ahead and apply for a patent.
For the finial product I have to have a chip made, this would cost tens of thousands, however as for knowing if the technology is there that is a given. what I need to do is to concept it and show the right people as a demonstration is like a picture it speaks for itself. When I have a working model even if not running at full speed its potential is then obvious rather than just conceptual, my patent is so my timing is protected, my idea is not in question , but to turn my idea into a reality needs to show people it works then the money issue is not a problem.
All I will say is ask yourself this if a royalty is paid of even pennies or cents or whatever your currency is on even only 1 % of the the worlds quantities of mass storage devices what does that come too, then you may understand why i feel its important to protect the project.