1204.1 Fixation in a Semiconductor Chip Product
One required element for protection of a mask work is that the mask work must be fixed in a semiconductor chip product. A mask work is “fixed” in a semiconductor chip product “when its embodiment in the product is sufficiently permanent or stable to permit the mask work to be perceived or reproduced from the product for a period of more than transitory duration.” 17 U.S.C. § 901 (A) (3).
A “semiconductor chip product” is defined as “the final or intermediate form of any product – (A) having two or more layers of metallic, insulating, or semiconductor material, deposited or otherwise placed on or etched away or otherwise removed from, a piece of semiconductor material in accordance with a predetermined pattern; and (B) intended to perform electronic circuitry functions.” 17 U.S.C. § 901 (A) (1).