I for one believe it's possible that there could be a settlement before the Markman. As we have been instructed by Ronran (thank you!), Discovery involves the sharing of info between the parties, supposedly placing all the cards (as of that date) on the table. Both sides are undoubtedly carefully examining those cards and, in addition to pursuing counter-arguments, are weighing the "odds" of success based on this info.

I believe that there is a constant weighting going on, on both sides, and possibly ongoing communications (offers/counter-offers). Thus, IMO, something (or nothing) could happen at any time.

While I don't really see TPL/PTSC being under any real pressure to accept an early settlement, I do wonder how much, if any, pressure is being applied on ARM by its customers/major shareholders to get this behind them.

I also wonder how much, if any, support ($) is being contributed to ARM by its customers who did not include Patent Indemnification clauses in their purchase orders. This is essentially their fight too (if ARM loses, they are screwed).

Sorry to those that reject any conjecture!

FWIW, all JMHO and I KNOW nuttin'!

SGE