Howdy.... Don`t mean to criticize, but I find the subject to be apt to your comments re: TPL`s agreement with Intel and whether it could be changed. Of course it can! If the entities that paticipate in an agreement later decide to alter/modify that agreement, and it`s mutually agreed, there`s no problem at all. However, if Intel is not somehow compelled to want a change, it might be a tough nut to crack. Likewise, AMD and PTSC.

I could see this playing out any number of ways, all contingent on how settlement/agreement is achieved between TPL/Moore and PTSC. Least likely IMO is for the entities to merge. I just don`t see why either would want to do that. They`ll use paper.... Could be in the form of a Teaming Agreement, where each shares in the proceeds of the the other, and they cooperatively, with combined resources, pursue other infringers with vigor. Or maybe just the latter part.

There could be things that are even more provocative involved. What specifically did Intel license from Moore/TPL? Are there other desired technologies in the same vein that are totally owned by PTSC (not contested)? Is there something else that might compelled Intel (or AMD) to modify prior agreements?

The settlement could also be something out of left field. I understand that Moore/TPL once offered some piddly amount ($360K?) to buy out PTSC. Do they have the resources/financing ability to up the ante in a big way? Seems financing based on somewhat predictable future royalties would be pretty easy (with more infringers yet to be pursued).

Lotsa wild cards here, but all appear positive. I was a buyer today.

And I KNOW nuttin`!

SGE