You can freely build on How Wang An Invented the Magnetic Pulse Memory Core

What this patent covers

This device uses magnetic cores to control the transfer of electrical pulses. It functions as a memory element by shifting information from one magnetic state to another. By applying specific current pulses, the device can store a bit of data as a magnetic orientation and then transfer that state to the next element in a sequence. This mechanism allowed early computers to store and move data without relying on fragile vacuum tubes.

What is now free to use

All 0 claims of US 2708722 are in the public domain. Specifically:

The 0 dependent claims add narrowing limitations and are also free.

What is NOT covered

Patent expiry frees this specific invention. Separately-patented improvements made after expiry may still be protected.

• Does not cover semiconductor-based RAM or flash memory storage.

• Does not cover optical data storage or laser-based reading methods.

• Does not cover software-based data processing algorithms.

Who is building on this today

Wang Laboratories became a major force in the computer industry based on this and related patents. While modern computing has moved to silicon, the logic of pulse-based data transfer remains a foundational concept in electrical engineering.

Products built on expired version of this technology

How to cite this patent in your documentation

Individual. US Patent 2708722. Pulse transfer controlling device. Granted 1955, expired 1972. Now in the public domain.

Note: This is a convenience citation. Consult a patent attorney for formal freedom-to-operate analysis.

PatentBrief is an educational resource and does not provide legal advice. Patent expiration information is derived from USPTO records and may not reflect continuation patents, divisional filings, or separately-patented improvements. For commercial use or production decisions, obtain a formal freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinion from a registered patent attorney.