Morality question ?

[ynneb]

There is currently a half decent CAD program been given away on the cover CD on a computer magazine I have bought.
The program would be an ideal freebie for those who wanted get into CNC cheaply.

Question?

Since they are already giving it away on the CD freely, does that mean they still own the code? If not, does this mean it would be morally ok to then host this program so that others could then download it?

Hmm, what do you guys think?

EDIT: Personally i think it should be alright, considering the only difference is that the free software comes from a CD or comes from a server. The only difference is the delivery method. Yes?

EDIT: It is a full version program , but a few versions behind their latest version that is sold for money. ( It would still be ideal for 2D drawings)

[Bloy2004]

Hi Ynneb,
There MAY be some agreement with the magazine company for promotional purposes. Thus, the only way to receive the CAD program would be to buy the magazine.
This would then make the distribution other than through the magazine a legal issue.

Bloy

P.S. Hey Ynneb, Any word on that Sheetcam Contest?

[ViperTX]

I agree with Bloy! Yneb....so is the mag available in the US? Maybe we can increase it's sales by mentioning it....

[DAB_Design]

I've never really understood the whole licence thing. If you purchase a licence to use a piece of software, I understand you don't 'own' the software, just the right to use it. But in my opinion, the restrictions should only be limited to reverse engineering of the software, or to keep people from using parts of the software (even documentation) for something other than the original purpose.

I believe you should be able to sell your copy of the software. Of course, all tech support would be voided. If tech support is something the new owner wants, then they should pay for it. Considering new versions of software come out periodically, a version sold to someone would be 'outdated' usually in a short period of time.

But in a case like this, I would have to agree somewhat with the others. They intend you to purchase the magazine to get the software. However, if the same company offers a free demo/trial version for download, then I wouldn't think there would be a problem

[turmite]

Benny I think the correct thing to do would be to go directly to the source and explain to them what it is you would like to do. If this would increase their exposure, and in the end generate more sales for their current software, it might just be a thing they would jump on!

Mike

[Rekd]

Check the EULA. There should be something in there about redistribution. Otherwise, just go ahead and give me the link and I'll check into it... *wink*wink*nudge*nudge*

[Imagineering]

I'm sure that it is ethical to let us know what the Magazine and CAD Program is, so that interested members of CNC Zone could purchase the Magazine. I'm interested, as the Magazine may be available here in NZ.

[ynneb]

Ok when I said "half decent" I am sure there will be many who bag it, but remember its free and my target was for new users who wanted to save a buck.

The magazine is called APC (Presumably "Australian Personal Computer") July 2005. The program given away is Turbo CAD 7.1
I am sure it should cater for ALL 2D cut out designs.

Here is a screen shot of how it looks.

[2muchstuff]

Hey I'm all for saving a buck but going to Austraila to get a copy.

[Imagineering]

Thanks Benny, I am one of your target group of new users who want to save a buck.
I'll look out for it tomorrow over here in NZ. Does it print out drawings OK?? I have been trialing 'Dolphin Partmaster' which is also free, but it has the limitation, (the only one), of a thumping great watermark which takes up around 1/2 the page and makes fine detail unreadable.

[ynneb]

I just did a printout on your behalf, and there was no watermark.

Here is the blurb on the CD. It will open in your Explorer but non of the other browsers.

[Imagineering]

Thanks Benny, Lotsa things I don't understand in the 'blurb' so it must be good . . .

Is the magazine definitely 'Australian PC World' or is it something else?? I don't recognise 'APC' as a magazine that's available here in NZ, I hope that I am wrong on this.