Trade secrets are licensed all the time. Especially in situations like John Bordynuik claims where even with licensing the catalyst he has the vastly superior flagship processor.

Now the scenario above assumes a catalyst that is truly unique and a processor #3 that is truly superior. If either or both of those items are not true then leaving the machines idle, not licensing the catalyst, and claiming "processor sales" are just arrrrouuuunnnndddd that next corner makes the most sense.