Key Tensilica Configurable Processor Patent Strengthened

Tensilica's US patent number 6,477,683, “Automated processor generation system for designing a configurable processor and method for the same,” issued in November 2002 and anonymously challenged in May 2003, has not only withstood the challenge without modification, but 102 additional claims were also accepted into the patent by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). This broad patent has been confirmed against the best-known prior art, creating an unusually strong foundation for Tensilica’s Xtensa configurable processor product line.
“The challenge has largely backfired,” stated Tom Halfhill, senior analyst for In-Stat’s Microprocessor Report. “The anonymous challenge has almost certainly strengthened this key patent. Having survived a lengthy reexamination and emerging with almost twice as many claims, it is unlikely to be challenged again.”