1213.4 Mask Works Not Commercially Exploited Containing Trade Secrets
If a mask work that has not been commercially exploited contains trade secrets, the ID material should consist of:
• A single photograph of the top or other visible layers of the mask work with the sensitive information maintained under a claim of trade secrecy blocked out, provided the blocked out portions do not exceed the remaining portions; and
• Special “identifying portions” for any layer or layers in which trade secrecy is claimed.
Specifically, the identifying portions should consist of (I) a printout of the mask work design data pertaining to each withheld layer, reproduced in microform, or (ii) visually perceptible representations (plastic color overlays, composite plots) in which portions maintained under a claim of trade secrecy are blocked out, provided that the portions remaining are greater than the portions blocked out. 37 C.F.R. § 211.5 (C) (2) (I) (A)- (B), (ii).