Limited Software Download for Intellectual Property

[Lord Grezington]

I have recently come into a IP issue where I have designed a PCB where the client wants to purchase the hardware. However it is not possible to "sell" the software which I have developed through flowcode to the due to IP legislation. (very similar code is used on other similar projects)

Is there any way that I can control a licence for them to only download to say 50 boards before the licence expires?

The only way I can see this is by trust, but there has to me an easier way as there are many licenced software downloads which are restricted.

I know I can change the code for this one particular project, but I would rather not.

Any useful information will be greatly appreciated as I have no experience in this.

Thanks

[Kenrix2]

I don't see any way around this without a hardware serialization scheme, which means either your in control of the physical microcontroller or the factory is with your permission. I would contact the microcontroller manufacturer to see what your options are. There are devices made that add hardware serialization to products but, the cost might exceed the cost of your serialization method or the microcontroller manufacturer's cost to implement.

[kersing]

The easiest way would be to provide them with programmed controllers. If you are using Microchip devices you might look into the option of Microchip programming them for you (check here, I haven't checked the cost).

There used to be a firm that had small standalone programmers for in the field updates that had a build in counter, they advertised in Circuit Cellar or Nuts and Volts magazine years ago. I've tried googling them but can't find them. Might be I don't use the right search string or the product is no longer available.

[JAW]

Rapid electrinics do a product called a tea clipper.

Part nos 43-0096 and 43-0097

Sounds like it fits with what you are trying to do!

Regards

JAW

[Lord Grezington]

Thanks, I will take a look a the tea clipper in more - Its now discontinued at Rapid, it also looks very delicate and easily damaged. But the fact that this exists means something else similar should be out there somewhere.