the life of Philo T Farnsworth - Early Television Foundation

R.C.A. LICENSES 245
anxiety. After spending thirteen years in building a patent
structure, he faced the all-important question of whether the
leader among the possible customers, who would set the pattern
for all the rest, would agree to pay for it. An equally serious
problem was the question of whether the price would be adequate.
Phil, Jess McCargar, Don Lippincott, and I often had
long discussions regarding the matter. We felt convinced that
an arrangement must be made, but we too had many anxious
moments and some misgivings as to the type of deal that could
be negotiated.
Previous to this time, the Radio Corporation had never paid
continuing royalties to anyone. It had succeeded in purchasing
any patents that were necessary for its operations, but we were
not in a mind to sell. Neither were we experienced in patent
of relief
negotiating of this sort. Consequently, we drew a sigh
when, with the launching of the new company, experienced
people entered the picture.
Mr. Nicholas, the new Farnsworth president, was an old hand
at negotiating. He had for
many years been in charge
of the
Patent Licensing Division of Radio Corporation. He was ably
seconded by Edwin M. Martin, directing head of the patent
division of the new company. Mr. Martin had previously been
with the Patent Department of
the Hazeltine Corporation.
Both these men recognized the importance of renewing licensing
negotiations with Radio Corporation, and long experience
had taught them how to go about it.
They knew the fundamental
strength not only of Farnsworth but of Radio Corporation
as well. Therefore they could talk on equal terms with
R.C.A/s Mr. Schairer, vice-president in charge of patents.
The negotiations were not easy, but the two Farnsworth men
were determined to make a fair and equitable arrangement on