This page is an FAQ based on guidance from the Manual of Patent Examining Procedure. It is provided as guidance, with links to the ground truth sources. This is information only: it is not legal advice.
When submitting read-only optical discs for patent applications:
- Discs must be CD-ROM, CD-R, DVD-R, or DVD+R formats
- Submit in duplicate, labeled as “Copy 1” and “Copy 2”
- Include a transmittal letter stating the discs are identical
- Each disc must have a permanent label with specific information
- Enclose discs in a hard case within a protective mailing envelope
As stated in MPEP 608.05: Each read-only optical disc must be enclosed in a hard case within an unsealed padded, and protective mailing envelope, and must be accompanied by a transmittal letter in accordance with 37 CFR 1.52(e)(4). The transmittal letter must include the following information: 1) first-named inventor (if known); 2) title of the invention; 3) attorney docket or file reference number (if applicable); 4) application number and filing date (if known); 5) the operating system used to produce the disc; and 6) the files contained on the read-only optical disc, including their names, sizes in bytes, and dates of creation.