Update On OpenBSD Firmware Activism 134
putko writes "Here's an update on the OpenBSD firmware activism. Basically, Intel says no. Plenty of contact info, in case you want to write someone an email or a phone call.
As Theo writes, 'Without
these firmware files included in OpenBSD, users must go do some
click-through license at some web site to get at the files. Without
those files, these devices are just bits of metal, plastic, and sand.'" While I applaud the notion behind Freer distribution (as in beer) it's also highly probable that Intel doesn't have much ground make them freer - we've seen this before on machines like the HP nw8000; basically, the wireless stuff is owned by someone else, licensed by Intel. That's not to say that the fight isn't worth fighting for freer distribution - it is. But if you want to make your voice heard, remember to be effective advocate.
As a consequence of purchasing intel (Score:2, Interesting)
. It's not like it's unavailable.
The referenced commentary relates the obvious solution for users who do not like this approach to distribution. "There is almost always choice".
WHich bring up another angle. It's hardware. I doubt Intel has any 'obligations to others' as far as making a detailed description of the hardware workings available. This would allow someone to write GPL firmware.
Or am I being naieve here?
Activism or documentation? (Score:4, Interesting)
I'm currently stuck trying to get my Alcatel/Thompson "Speedtouch 330" (Revision 4) ADSL modem to work under FreeBSD 5.3. Downloading the 'firmware' was a pain but much of that could have been resolved with some good documentation and an MD5 to verify the correct version. Even now I have the device recognised following the handbook doesn't get me connected... and offers precious little information about how to make appropriate configuration.
I suppose the response might be that that OpenBSD would do this fine - though I chose FreeBSD as a result about concerns about OpenBSD support for the Atheros chipset in my Dlink DWL G520 PCI wireless net card (which is straightforward to configure in FreeBSD.) Aaaagh!
Constant complaining counts! (Score:5, Interesting)
While it's pretty obvious that the companies that use these chipsets are essentially helpless and cannot release the firmware code for public distribution, if people are enough of a pain in the ass, it will prevent them from using such hardware/firmware in the future. Don't quit complaining or they will read it as acceptance.
Let the /.-ing begin (Score:2, Interesting)
So 24 comments, and 469 blokes actually RTFA.
Comment removed (Score:2, Interesting)
Sorry, but it's not the FCC .. (Score:2, Interesting)
The FCC somehow exerting some pressure has nothing to do with this.
The FCC does not prohibit the sale of devices. What they do prohibit is using the devices in a disruptive way.
It is perfectly legal for Intel to sell and give away the firmware. They are just bullshitting for various reasons.
It's much like P2P in a way. It's not illegal to make it, but some uses of it are prohibited (not that I agree)
Why ? (Score:3, Interesting)
> else, licensed by Intel.
That's your guess - but Intel declined to comment on that.
IMO, that's really too much BS'ing for such a little piece of code.
The reason why someone might want to include the firmware in the distribution is (perhaps) to allow network-installs via wireless.
If you're only net-connection is via a wireless nic, you can't go to some website and download it first....
Rainer