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Who Invented the Linux-Based Wireless Router?
mtaht writes "I've just had the interesting experience of being deposed to talk about one of the first embedded, Linux-based, wireless routers. Our (free!) 1998 publication of how to make one predates patent #7035281, filed September 13, 2000, by someone else. Their patent was recently granted and is now being disputed in court, in part using our how-to as an example of prior art. The lawsuit continues; the case goes before a judge shortly, and a jury trial if necessary is scheduled for the spring. I find myself plagued with the question: So... who invented the embedded Linux based wireless router? What relevance does 'who' have, when there is such an enormous confluence of ideas from thousands of people? What constitutes invention, anyway?"
I thought we just resolved this in the last story. Vint Cerf invented it and the lawsuits are his fault.
It's hard to believe that's how Micronians are made. Why don't we see it right now by having you both kiss one another?
Does it have Linux on it? --no--> Install Linux. Is Linux installed? --no--> Modify Linux until you can install it. ----> Install Linux.
It's Linux. Installing it is always obvious.
I say we find everyone who submitted patent ideas before 2002 and buy them a drink.
Nothing's been more of a driver of IT support than those awful little boxes. Thanks for the job security guys!
Non impediti ratione cogitationus.
> World domination follows . . .
Except on the desktop... :D
I did it.
Achille Talon
Hop!
Both were cut from the curriculum to make room for Creationism and Bible Study.
> by marrying ... a stove and a fucking door.
If the stove didn't consent to the marriage it might be declared null and void. It might even constitute a criminal rape charge if the door had actually performed coitus as a "fucking door" is wont to do.
Didn't know Ben Franklin was kinky..