RE: [Fsfe-uk] Software patent MEP response

[Robert \(Jamie\) Munro]

> -----Original Message-----
> From: Alex Hudson
> Sent: 18 May 2003 20:38
> To: FSFE-UK
> Subject: Re: [Fsfe-uk] Software patent MEP response
>
> This is, I guess, an understandable position, if not a desirable one.
> So the first line of attack is probably to ensure the they codify any
> attempt at the 'status quo' as tightly as possible. Stuff like:
>
> "The proposed Directive would set a fair test for software (deciding
> whether it has a technical effect) before authorizing a patent."
>
> ... is useful. What is this proposed wonder test? What is the hard
> definition of 'technical effect'?

I think the way it should work is that if you are using a "normal" computer,
no matter what code is running on it, you cannot be infringing a patent. Who
cares what is then  patented - as long as you aren't using special hardware,
you cannot be in violation.

Robert Munro