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

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.