Messages in this thread | | | Date | Wed, 29 May 2002 22:18:04 +0200 | From | Roman Zippel <> | Subject | Re: A reply on the RTLinux discussion. |
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Hi,
Alan Cox wrote:
> > 1. We are talking about a free software project here! > > 2. They asked a lawyer, here is the result: > > http://lwn.net/2002/0131/a/rtai-24.1.8.php3 > > So why is he still moaning. He's got a legal opinion that he can use > binary apps on RTAI without paying the license. What else does he want ?
That Victor acknowledges that this is correct legal advice and he will accept that? Instead we see statements like this: "it would still not be permitted to link binary modules into the derived program without our permission. RTAI "user space" to me, does not escape this issue." How will he do this? To our knowledge applications don't infringe the patent and he can't change the kernel license. What does he know that we don't know?
Let me quote from Victor's FAQ: "If you want to mix GPL and non-GPL software under unmodified Open RTLinux, you may be able to do so as well, but we suggest caution. The intent of our license and the GPL itself is to permit reciprocal sharing of software technology. If you have software that you prefer not to make available to others, then you may be able to take advantage of the "unmodified Open RTLinux" provisions of our license or you may need to use RTLinux/Pro." In other word: if you want to be safe, use the license or buy our product. Other options are not mentioned. What has the user to be cautioned of, when he mixes the GPL with the LGPL? In my understanding these are subtle, but clear threats against unauthorized use of the patent. It's nice that he wants to help the GPL, but we should refuse such help. I would do quite a lot to promote the GPL, but I would never force people to use the GPL. It's very important that people do this out of their free will and Victor doesn't offer much choice here. A patent is a very dangerous tool, it gives you an exclusive right, which must not be abused.
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