Without getting a patent you're not going to have a lot of room to protect yourself. Being in the IT industry sometimes ideas move so quick that a patent is too long of process to get protection. What a lot of companies do in this case is to use a non-disclosure agreement (NDA). This would let you discuss your idea with a manufacturer and get a little bit of protection (some, but not much). word the NDA so that they can't use, discuss, etc... your idea without your permission. Like I said, maybe a little bit of protection. You're best bet for getting good info on this would be to talk a patent attorney. They can probably give you better advice.

Hope this helps

Ken