*BSD News Article 6327


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From: hpa@casbah.acns.nwu.edu (H. Peter Anvin N9ITP)
Subject: Re: distributing linux on floppies
Message-ID: <1992Oct10.084717.8243@news.acns.nwu.edu>
Sender: usenet@news.acns.nwu.edu (Usenet on news.acns)
Reply-To: hpa@nwu.edu (H. Peter Anvin)
Organization: You must be kidding!
References: <1992Oct7.164402.29427@uc.msc.edu> <1992Oct8.200527.1567@fcom.cc.utah.edu> <1b27slINNj2f@usenet.INS.CWRU.Edu>
Date: Sat, 10 Oct 1992 08:47:17 GMT
Lines: 50

In article <1b27slINNj2f@usenet.INS.CWRU.Edu> of comp.os.linux,
  edguer@ces.cwru.edu (Aydin Edguer) writes:
> 
> When the distributer sells a copy of software covered by the GPL to a
> retailer, they are transferring a copy.  When the retailer sells a copy
> of software covered by the GPL to a customer, they are transferring a
> copy.  Money can be made from the sale and distribution of software
> covered by the GPL.
> 
> The important thing a distributor and retailer must keep in mind is that
> they must distribute the source code, or provide a method of obtaining
> the source code for up to three years, and that they cannot limit the
> redistribution of the software.  If a local user group wants to purchase
> a copy of the distribution and sell duplicates for less than the retailer
> or distributor, the retailer or distributor may not stop them from
> competing.
> 

M-x armchair-lawyer-mode

>From my viewpoint, it seems perfectly legal for a retailer to sell a
GPL-covered product, at a markup, as long as it comes in a box with a
little mail-in card saying:

	Source Code Distribution
	------------------------

	If you would like to acquire the source code for this product
	as provided for by the General Public License, please mail
	in this card with a check or money order payable to
	SOFTWARE SHRINKWRAPS, UNLTD:

		___ copies: 3.5" HD (20 disks)  @ $60.00
		___ copies: 5.25" HD (24 disks) @ $60.00

		    Shipping & fondling...         $7.00

	Name/Address/Phone/Mother's Maiden Name/Father's Maiden Name/etc

.... assuming, of course, that the cost of the package is at least $3/disk
when you buy it.

	/hpa


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