Echostar DishPVR 721 GPL Software Released

Faw writes "It was mentioned before that Echostar was releasing a Linux based PVR. It has been out for a month now, and the modifications to the kernel and other software are here. The cool thing is the site is running on the same receiver. Someone is already hacking it. Wonder how long until the receiver get slashdotted."

Comments

File Format...

[SealBeater]

Almost forgot, what's the file format for the archived video? Is it straight MPEG or something propriatary? Can I install NFS or somesuch on it? Sorry, it's just a day for questions apparently.

SealBeater

GPL violation?

[ortholattice]

From the "DishPVR 721 Source Code" page: "Do not replace or add any software to the DishPVR 721 with items compiled from these source trees. Doing so will void all warranties and cause the unit to fail."

Well, if replacing a piece of software recompiled from the source tree causes the unit to fail, that means the binary must not correspond to the source. Thus the GPL'ed source must have had further, secret modifications that are not being released. Isn't that a violation of the GPL?

Re:GPL violation?

[Jade E. 2]

You're missing the point. The restrictions you're talking about only apply when you're using someone else's GPLed code. In this case, since it's their own code, they can do it however they like, including releasing 2 versions, a non-GPLed binary version including the proprietary bits (inside the boxes) and a GPLed source of the non-proprietary bits. If they had taken someone elses GPLed code and used it, then they would have to release the whole thing or nor use that code, but since they own the code they can do with it what they like.

GPL? Um, nope...

[haukex]

Please note that the DishPVR 721 software also includes some proprietary elements that are not subject to the GPL. You cannot perform a working DishPVR 721 software build without the additional proprietary code.

This discussion was held before but here goes:

Combining two pieces of software more than just calling each other through the shell constitutes them being one program, especially in this case where the software won't even *compile* without the missing (proprietary) code. This is not allowed under the GPL - either the entire software is released under the GPL or you can't release it under the GPL at all. (see here)

Admittedly, it's nice of them to release the code and make it avaliable to the public, I'm sure it'll be interesting for everyone - but once again, the GPL is beaten.

Starband

[GigsVT]

Echostar/Starband still will not release client specs to allow Linux computers to directly connect to starband satellite modems with normal speeds.

You can connect the Linux box to the satellite modem, but it operates at around 64kbits up/down, with the windows client installed, it gets more like 768 down 64 up. Many people have requested the specs to write a driver for Linux, but they were told that the specs would not be given out to support the development of any sort of open source driver.

Don't get the idea that Echostar is Linux friendly. Starband proves that.