Index

Semiconductor Chip Protection Act (SCPA)

Summary

Protects the 'mask works' (layout designs) of semiconductor chips, which are too functional for copyright and often not inventive enough for patents.

Rights & Rules

  • 01.
    Exclusive right to reproduce the mask work by any means.
  • 02.
    Exclusive right to import or distribute a semiconductor chip product in which the mask work is embodied.

Penalties

  • 01.
    Actual damages plus the infringer's profits.
  • 02.
    Statutory damages up to $250,000.
  • 03.
    Destruction of infringing products and the plates/masks used to create them.

Verified Citations

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