InOutTV forum GPL violation ?

[B. Jean]

pcmstr at terra.es a écrit :
> Siemens makes a very versatile DVB-T receiver/recorder called M740AV and M750EPG
>
> Both devices are exactly the same hardware. The only difference is the firmware, based on Linux.
>
> If you purchase the Sincroguia (a service with a TV guide better than the EPG transmited by TV stations) InOut TV converts your M740AV in a M750EPG doing it with a firmware upgrade via antenna.
>
> Some people in the forums are developing new non-oficial firmware versions, based on oficial versions.
>
> But if you try to install a M750 firmware in a M740 then it not works. It exists a method to "convert" a M740 in a  M750 my hand (the only difference is the firmware) but in www.todopvr.com forums the forum administrators close and edit all messages, saying this is illegal. But, if the firmware is linux based (and then GPL), you can install it on any device you want. Or not? is this a GPl violation of firmware license?
>
> Thanks
>   
Hi,

That's what the FSF calls " Tivoïzation ". I don't know if the method 
you are speaking about is, or not, illegal (should be illegal in France 
since the DADVSI). Anyway, under the GNU GPL v.2, any licensor can block 
by hardware any other install than his particular version (but the code 
have to be offer). This issue is solved since the last version of the 
GNU GPL (v.3) (Article 6) :

    "Installation Information" for a User Product means any methods,
    procedures, authorization keys, or other information required to
    install and execute modified versions of a covered work in that User
    Product from a modified version of its Corresponding Source. The
    information must suffice to ensure that the continued functioning of
    the modified object code is in no case prevented or interfered with
    solely because modification has been made.

    If you convey an object code work under this section in, or with, or
    specifically for use in, a User Product, and the conveying occurs as
    part of a transaction in which the right of possession and use of
    the User Product is transferred to the recipient in perpetuity or
    for a fixed term (regardless of how the transaction is
    characterized), the Corresponding Source conveyed under this section
    must be accompanied by the Installation Information.

Best regards,
Ben
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