Re: Linux GPL and binary module exception clause?

Aaron Smith
2003-12-04T00:52:26Z

>So being a module is not a sign of not being a derived work. It's just
>one sign that _maybe_ it might have other arguments for why it isn't
>derived.
>
> Linus
>
>
My question is a natural extension of this point and subsequent posts,
When is a kernel so tainted it can no longer be considered GPL, or can
no longer be considered free software? I write software for astronomical
applications where some vendors give binary only drivers, or give you
restricted access to the source code so I will some times load 5 or 6
devices that are binary only or at least non GPL. So what taint is
allowable?

Thanks,
Aaron Smith
Virginia Astronomical Instrumentation Laboratory
Programmer

PS sorry if this is a stupid question.