GPL or BSD: What license do you prefer for the MSCP SCSI project? - test-drb@ccmp.vtda.org

21 Dec 2005

...
 List members,
   I reach the point that I need to decide what license I will use when
I release my project. I myself do not have a preference. I am planning
to replace the unknown-license 53C90 sample code with linux or NetBSD
53C90 driver code. If I use the linux code, I have to release it with
GPL. If I use the NetBSD code, I  am not able to release it in GPL. I
will let you guys decide, since you are the end users. To avoid
flooding the mailing list, you can send me private email if you do not
have a public message.
   When I release the project, only 512 B/B CDROM and HD will be
supported. There might be a need to add support for other format
CDROMs (easy) or SCSI tapes (difficult) or other devices down the
road. Bear this in mind when you vote. 
I would say use whatever license suits you the best.  If you aren't
concerned about someone building a closed source product out of it,
BSD is fine.  If you do have some concerns, LGPL is a good comprimise.
 It allows people to link it with non-GPL code without allowing them
to close the source.   If you want it, and any product linked with it
to be made open source, the GPL is the way to go.  There are plenty of
shades in between.

Were I the developer in question, I would probably go with LGPL for a
driver or library and full GPL for a program.  I've seen too much open
source work go into closed source products to use BSD license on my
code anymore.  But YMMV.  Choose what's best for you.

Eric