Interesting..

http://www.internetnews.com/bus-news/article.php/3782176/IBM+Files+Suit+to+Keep+Chip+Exec+From+Apple.htm

First time I've heard of something like that.

That seems to be pretty standard, especially for something worth as much as semi-conductor technology.

Heck, they even make contracts like that in the hydraulics industry, although I'm yet to hear of anyone trying to enforce one.

I was aware of the vast contracts people usually have to sign, but, as you said, I've never heard of an issue like this.