Seeking Prior Art Before Filing Patent?

An anonymous reader asks: "I had a sort of out-there idea for computer hardware, and wanted to investigate design and manufacture. I figure the first step would be to patent the idea so that I am protected from it being stolen, while I confer with contractors about fabrication and circuit design. Does anyone know of ways to check for prior art, other than hitting up Google for something similar? I believe this idea is unique, but you never know what could have been out there, and I didn't know if there were any good resources on the web. Since the readership seems to be an inventive bunch, I think discussion on this topic may help more people than myself."

File first, ask questions later

[CableModemSniper]

What's the worst that could happen?

IP Law

[Anonymous Coward]

Get an IP lawyer. Seriously. They don't get paid just to defend against SCO. They actually do, you know, IP law.

Re:Try specific news and portal sites, plus USPTO

[stinerman]

"handlebars," "vibration," and "chocolate"

Sounds like a fine night at home with the wife!