+++ James [03-11-27 17:38 +0000]:
>
> > > I'm unclear about non GPL code in the kernel, what are the
> > > implications of this.
> > Binary only drivers are legal only if they don't include any GPL executable
Even that is a matter of opinion. Many kernel contributors are not
happy about Linus 'exception' which only means that Linus won't sue you. And
anyway we all know we're not interested in binary-only drivers. If that's
all we can get then a chip is not going to be acceptable.
> No I'd really not want binary, I assumed you meant non
> GPL, source code. The problem with both binary and
> non-GPL is that it I think (need to ask lawyers) t makes
> it impossible for me to distribute a boot yaffs image
> containing any GPL code.
I don't think it's quite that drastic. A YAFFS image would be a collection
of code, not linked code. Not all of it has to be GPLed (otherwise you
couldn't distribute any propietary software in your device).
Whther you could include a module which was under a different licence would
(I think) depend on the license. It's certainly been argued cogently by
David Woodhouse amongst others that you can't include a binary module in a
filesystem image (see the linksys router debate about a month ago). I'm not
sure if anything changes if the module is under some other free license.
I recall Nick asked me to check out the licensing on these drivers/devices a
while ago and I haven't done it yet. I'll have a proper look tomorrow. Must
dash.
Wookey
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