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Atmel scenerio

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Revision as of 23:26, 21 February 2006; view current revision
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I have an Atmel microcontroller. It has 40 pins. 5 are used to program it. Once it is programmed, they can be used for other purposes (however, if the 5 pins are reconfigured, it can no longer be programmed). I need all 40 pins for my project. I stick GPLv3 code on it, and want to give my finished box to my friends. I cannot, due to the anti-DRM clause:

nor for modes of distribution that deny users that run covered works the full exercise of the legal rights
granted by this License.

Since users cannot reprogram my device. This goes for any device whose firmware is not upgradable:

  • If it is in a ROM, as in IC mask
  • If the form factor does not allow flashing of the ROM
  • ...
I don't think this clause was meant to restrict these methods of distribution. After all, there are other changes that are specifically aimed at cases where the software is shipped on some kind of embedded device. For example, the terms for non-source distribution (section 7) now require you to make source available under option b for as long as you offer spare parts or customer support.
I think this clause is aimed at more obviously nefarious modes of distribution. For example, consider a new variant of the trusty tar format that has DRM capabilities, and will only let you make a certain number of copies of the work. That would prevent you from exercising your rights under section 4 to distribute as many copies as you like, and distributing GPLed work in such a form would not be permitted under this clause.