John,

        I've found software licensing in general to be very "non-standard".

* Some vendors you buy a copy of the software and source.
* Some vendors are effectively renting you the use of there software.  If
you don't renew annual support the software will stop working.  If you
renew, they send you a new key (sometimes hidden in an annual update).
* Some vendors escrow their software source and write into the agreement
that should they exit the market for any reason (migration to another
platform, out of business, etc.) the source code will be released to the
customer.
* Some vendors sell you a copy of the executable software locked to an
HPSUSAN/HPCPUNAME, but it will work forever (as long as you use that
HPSUSAN/HPCPUNAME box).  However, there are is no protection or access to
source if the vendor exits the market.
* and I'm sure there are other scenarios that I don't recall...

Thanx,
        Jon

-----Original Message-----
From: OpenMPE Support Group [mailto:[log in to unmask]]On Behalf Of
John Zoltak
Sent: Friday, October 25, 2002 8:33 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: [OPENMPE] A No for SSConfig


I haven't read any software licenses recently. Do most of the HP3000
software vendors provide perpetual licenses? Or are they "You can use the
software for as long as we say" type. And if they are perpetual, how can a
vendor not provide ongoing help when a key change is required because of a
hardware replacement? And if they are not perpetual, can't the vendors just
say, Upgrade time! Everybody's license has expired please buy new software.

John Zoltak
North American Mfg Co
4455 East 71st Street
Cleveland Ohio 44105
216-206-5510



-----Original Message-----
From: Lars Appel [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Friday, October 25, 2002 5:27 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: A No for SSConfig


Cecile wrote:

> ... There's no need to protect against piracy
> if you're getting out of the market anyway.

Unless you're trying to force as many people as possible
to buy your then-new migration or replacement product !?

Lars.