TRUSTED PTC SITES

Free Software, Free Society: Selected Essays of Richard M. Stallman

Free Software, Free Society: Selected Essays of Richard M. Stallman is a book by Joshua Gay compiling different essays of Richard M. Stallman. * The intersection of ethics, law, business and computer software is the subject of these essays and speeches by MacArthur Foundation Grant winner, Richard M. Stallman. This collection includes historical writings such as The GNU Manifesto, which defined and launched the activist Free Software Movement, along with new writings on hot topics in copyright, patent law, and the controversial issue of “trusted computing.” Stallman takes a critical look at common abuses of copyright law and patents when applied to computer software programs, and how these abuses damage our entire society and remove our existing freedoms. He also discusses the social aspects of software and how free software can create community and social justice. * The first edition was published 8 years ago by GNU Press under the GNU Free Documentation License. * Essays contained in this book deal mainly about ethics, law, business and their application to computer software. * The introduction is written by Lawrence Lessig, professor at Stanford University. * The book is divided into three main parts, and also includes a fourth one with GNU licenses: [1] The GNU Project and the Free Software Foundation, [2] Copyrights, Copylefts and Patents, [3] Creating a Free Society, [4] GNU Licenses. * Money raised from the sale of this book supports the development of free software and documentation.

Rating: (out of 5 reviews)

List Price: $ 19.95
Price: $ 17.36

Free Software, Free Society: Selected Essays of Richard M. Stallman Reviews

Review by Robert D. Steele:

I bought this book at Hackers on Planet Earth 6, and then after reading it in the morning, had the double benefit of hearing the author as keynote speaker in the afternoon. He is everything the book’s contents suggest, and more. The author is one of the original MIT hackers (pick up a used copy of Shirley Turkle’s “My Second Self, Computers and the Human Spirit” and/or Steven Levy’s “Hacker’s” which the author himself recommends.

The author’s brilliant bottom line is quite clear throughout the book: software copyright prevents people from improving or sharing the foundation for progress in the digital era.

The author’s social-technical innovation, which appears now to be acquiring tsunami force around the world, and is manifested in the Free/Open Source Software (F/OSS) movement that is being nurtured by governments worldwide from Brazil to China to Israel to the United Kingdom to Norway, is to modify copyright to a term he credits to another, copyleft, meaning that copyright in the new definition grants ALL permissions EXCEPT the permission to RESTRICT the enhancement and sharing of the software.

The author is also very careful to define the term free as meaning freedom of movement and growth, not free of price. GNU, his invention, removes computational obstacles to competition, and levels the playing field for more important innovations. In his view, the core issue is not about price, but about eliminating restrictions to freedom of sharing and enhancement.

On page 37 he sums up his life’s purpose: “Proprietary and secret software is the moral equivalent of runners having a fist fight (during the race)” — they all lose.

The author carefully distinguishes between the free and open source software, citing the first as a movement with values, the second as a process.

His candidacy for a Nobel Prize is captured in the sentence on page 61, “Free software contributes to human knowledge, non-free software does not.”

Across the book, a collection of essays put into a very well ordered (not necessarily chronological) form, this book is a history of GNU (not UNIX) by its creator and co-founder of the Free Software Foundation. It is replete with concise useful discussions of terms, conditions, and cultures relevant to the future of mankind as a thinking forward looking species.

Section two, on copyright, copyleft, and patents is very helpful, and likely to become a standard in the field as the public fires elected representatives who sell out to Mickey Mouse copyright extenders, and demands a return to the original Constitutional limitation of copyright as an artifact of government, not a natural right, focused on nurturing knowledge. It means mention that Lawrence Lessig (see my reviews of his books) writes the introduction–the two authors together, along with Cass Sunstein, may be the most important trio of thinkers with respect to the future of man in the context of science, copyright, risk, and software as a human global contributor to sanity.

The author’s keynote address at HOPE 6 is discussed toward the end of the book, where he lists the Four Freedoms:

Freedom 0: Run a program as you wish, for any purpose you wish, not limited to any narrowly defined application.

Freedom 1: Help yourself by improving the program (which requires access to source code).

Freedom 2: Help your neighbor by sharing a copy of the program with them.

Freedom 3: Help community by sharing the improved copy at large.

There is no question in my mind but that this manifesto of a single man’s life’s work is as important as Tom Paine’s Common Sense treatises. There is a war now emergent between the classes (US elites bribing foreign elites, both screwing their publics over for private gain), and between corporations and the people, corporations long having abused the independent legal personality that was granted to promote business, and ended up being a legal barrier to holding corporate managers accountable for grand theft and social irresponsibility.

Toward the end the author offers thoughtful suggestions on how to “drop out” of the proprietary software world, and his thinking resonates with “No Logo” and its recommendations on selective purchasing.

This book is not a technical book although it offers up many understandable insights to technical matters underlying the social philosophy of the author. It is not a legal book either, but offers important informed commentary vital to getting the law focused again on human progress. Finally, in no way does the book dismiss the importance of capitalism–the author clearly states that it is entirely appropriate to charge a fee for one’s contributions–this is about the “how” not the “how much.

Absolutely superb collection of essays, extremely important to where we go in the future. The author is not only an original hacker, he represents hacking as it should be understood by the authorities (see my review of Bruce Sterling, Hackers at the Edge of the Electronic Frontier), and as I see them–as people who have the “right stuff” and are testing the edge, pushing the frontier. In a world of drones, these are the libertarian spirits that may well keep us out of perpetual prison.

For reference: DARPA’s STRONG ANGEL program, empowered now by DoD Directive 3000.cc. specifically seeks to create a suite of collaborative sharing and analytic tools that can be provided free to any non-governmental organization and any state and local government. Support costs have to be shared. It is now understood at the highest levels of the US military that we cannot make peace without sharing all information in all languages all the time (my third book), and this is progress.

Review by :

The editor wrote a short forward explaining all the computer concepts the reader will need in order to understand the book. In addition, there are footnotes throughout the book explaining obscure people and computer terms. This way even a sociology major like myself can understand everything. Stallman talks about important issues that are currently being played out in Washington DC. This book is a great way to help make sense of it all.

Buy Free Software, Free Society: Selected Essays of Richard M. Stallman now for only $ 17.36!

Toshiba 2 Mega Pixel IP/Network Camera. PTZ (Pan/Tilt/Zoom), 802.11N Wireless, 3.6mm lens, 1600×1200 resolution, FREE Recording Software

The Toshiba IK-WB16A is an ideal camera for both consumer and commercial installations. Offering a crystal clear 2 Mega Pixel image with 1600×1200 resolution along with Pan, Tilt and Zoom (PTZ) capability, this camera fits many needs. Available in two versions, the IK-WB16A is a standard network camera that can utilize Power over Ethernet (PoE). The IK-WB16A-W is an 802.11n wireless camera that comes with a separate 12V DC power supply. Both models of the IK-WB16A include a 3.6mm lens and FREE recording software that will record up to 16 individual cameras. In addition, the cameras include quad streaming MPEG4/JPEG video, 4x digital zoom, two-way audio and a micro SD card slot for local recording. Cameras ship fully assembled and ready to install and include a 3 year limited warranty.

• 2 Mega Pixel 1600×1200 resolution
• PTZ (Pan, Tilt, Zoom)
• Wireless 802.11n
• FREE recording software for up to 16 separate cameras

List Price: $ 489.90
Price: $ 449.99

Understanding Open Source and Free Software Licensing

If you’ve held back from developing open source or free software projects because you don’t understand the implications of the various licenses, you’re not alone. Many developers believe in releasing their software freely, but have hesitated to do so because they’re concerned about losing control over their software. Licensing issues are complicated, and both the facts and fallacies you hear word-of-mouth can add to the confusion.Understanding Open Source and Free Software Licensing helps you make sense of the different options available to you. This concise guide focuses on annotated licenses, offering an in-depth explanation of how they compare and interoperate, and how license choices affect project possibilities. Written in clear language that you don’t have to be a lawyer to understand, the book answers such questions as: What rights am I giving up? How will my use of OS/FS licensing affect future users or future developers? Does a particular use of this software–such as combining it with proprietary software–leave me vulnerable to lawsuits?Following a quick look at copyright law, contracts, and the definition of “open source,” the book tackles the spectrum of licensing, including:The MIT (or X), BSD, Apache and Academic Free licensesThe GPL, LGPL, and Mozilla licensesThe QT, Artistic, and Creative Commons licensesClassic Proprietary licensesSun Community Source license and Microsoft Shared Source projectThe book wraps up with a look at the legal effects–both positive and negative–of open source/free software licensing.Licensing is a major part of what open source and free software are all about, but it’s still one of the most complicated areas of law. Even the very simple licenses are tricky. Understanding Open Source and Free Software Licensing bridges the gap between the open source vision and the practical implications of its legal underpinnings. If open source and free software licenses interest you, this book will help you

Rating: (out of 12 reviews)

List Price: $ 19.99
Price:

Monogram Wizard plus software PLUS 2 FREE ALPHA PACKS

Presenting the Monogram Wizard Plus, the much anticipated follow up to needleheads industry standard software, the Monogram Wizard. The Monogram Wizard Plus greatly increases the power of the Monogram Wizard, while at the same time maintaining the ease of use that made the Monogram Wizard the most popular selling monogramming software available. New features of the Monogram Wizard Plus include a new monogramming style, new fonts and motifs, style selection, layers, improved letter movement, stitch selection, the abillity to print the design you have created a full size and the ability to save as PES, SEW, JEF and JEF+ files in addition to DST files. See the figures below for a futher explanation of these features.

• Monogram Wizard Plus Embroidery Machine Software
• Included is 2 FREE Alpha Packs. You can choose from any
• of the 20 Packs (Check out the selection at
• www.needleheads.com)

Price: $ 247.99

IntelliScanner Pro – Smart USB Barcode Scanner w/ Free Asset Software

IntelliScanner Pro – add barcodes to your small business.
IntelliScanner Pro is a smart, affordable barcode reader for your business from the barcode experts at IntelliScanner Corporation.

Just plug IntelliScanner Pro into any USB port and scan the barcode to organize inventory and more. This smart scanner integrates third-party applications like FileMaker, Excel and QuickBooks automatically — no drivers required, IntelliScanner works just like a USB keyboard.

Free included inventory software.
IntelliScanner Pro’s free Inventory software helps organize and track your business assets, provides detailed reports of your inventory, gives notification of low stock items, and more. IntelliScanner Pro lets you know what you have, where it is and what you have invested – a seamless, affordable way to start organizing your small business.

Works with all major bar code types.
Scan everything. IntelliScanner Pro supports: EAN-8, EAN-13, UPC-A, UPC-E, Code 39, Code 128, Bookland EAN / ISBN, Code 11, Code 93, Codabar, Code 32, CIP39, Full ASCII 39, Interleaved 2 of 5 (I2of5), Industrial 2 of 5, MSI/Plessey, China Postal, Matrix 2 of 5, Telepen, Laetus Pharmacode

• Smart USB barcode scanner reads all major barcode types
• Scan UPC, EAN, ISBN, Code 39, and more
• Easy to customize output with included configuration guide
• CCD contact imaging sensor; easy to hold, ergonomic design, durable construction for any office
• Free included inventory control software for PC + Mac

List Price: $ 199.00
Price: $ 67.46

SFO Healthy Life Fully Automatic Arm Blood Pressure Monitor, Pulse Rate, irregular beat detection, AC Adapter, Free TrackMyBP Software

SFO Healthy Life 1000 Advanced BP Monitor is an arm-type blood pressure monitor with irregular pulse detection function
Use batteries or ac adaptor for power
Perfect item for yourself, your parents or grandparents
(Adapter included in the box)
Free SFO TrackMyBP Software to monitor BP (Systolic and Diastolic) and pulse
FDA/CE Approved
Model Name: Healthy Life
Model No. 1000
Intelligent Inflation and Auto smart deflation after detection of blood pressure Monitor
Automatic Fuzzy Logic to detect irregular pulse rate and many more features

It can monitor blood pressure from upper arm with the push of a button. The automatic memory function records the last 120 measurements in 4 groups for efficient tracking. The unit contains a Last 3 Results Average feature that automatically calculates average readings stored in memory as well as an Irregular Heart Beat Detection, which alerts the user when heart rhythm is either 25% faster or slower than the average rhythm detected during the measuring process.
Dimensions: 2.9 x 4 x 3 inch
Black and white display
LCD Size: 2.8 x 2 inch
Accuracy of BP: +/- 3mmHg
Pressure Test Range : 20mmHg~300mmHg (2.7kPa-40kPa)
Pulse Rate Range : 30-180 Beats/Minute
Pulse Accuracy : +/- 5%
Measures Blood Pressure and Pulse Rate with display of date and time
Reports systolic and diastolic pressure along with date and time
Stores measurements with date and time
120 Memory Storage with date and time
Can create upto four user groups
Automatic Pressurization and smart depressurization
Very accurate and reliable
Fuzzy logic
Detects irregular heart beat
Memory recalls function of previous measurements
Automatic Power off
Very Large LCD Display with display of average of last three readings
Easy to use and portable
Method of measurement: Oscillometric
Low Battery and Error indicators
Blood Pressure Measurement in mmHg or Kpa. (Option)

• Fully Automatic advacned Operation for measuring systolic and diastolic blood pressure measurement
• Auto inflation and smart deflation upon recording blood pressure readings
• Records pulse rate and detects irregular heart beat pattern
• Jumbo LCD Display, Easy to use, FDA Approved, AC Adaptor
• 4 users can store separate 30 readings each, total memory 120, Free software to see graphical trends

Rating: (out of 2 reviews)

Price: $ 28.99

SFO Healthy Life Fully Automatic Arm Blood Pressure Monitor, Pulse Rate, irregular beat detection, AC Adapter, Free TrackMyBP Software Reviews

Review by G. Even:

This is a very easy to use blood pressure monitor device, great display size. I wish it came with the 110v power supply, but the battery power supply source works well too.

Buy SFO Healthy Life Fully Automatic Arm Blood Pressure Monitor, Pulse Rate, irregular beat detection, AC Adapter, Free TrackMyBP Software now for only $ 28.99!

Go Smart By Omron HJ-720ITFFP Pocket Pedometer with Advanced Omron Health Management Software

Omron HJ-720ITFFP Pocket Pedometer with Advanced Omron Health Management Software Pocket Pedometer with USB Connection; Large display with clock; Can be carried in pocket or bag; Measures steps, aerobic steps and minutes, calories and distance; Includes software that tracks days, weeks, months and years of exercise; Review a full week of exercise with 7-day history; Automatically resets at midnight so it’s ready to go every morning; Includes detachable belt holder, security strap, clip, USB cable and batteryThe Omron HJ-720ITFFP Pocket Pedometer is an advanced, high-tech pedometer that–thanks to unique dual sensor technology–can be carried in your pocket or bag. Now you can just drop your pedometer in your purse to find out how much exercise you get in a typical day of work, errands, and other tasks. Of course, you can also attach it to your belt like a traditional pedometer.The device’s large, easy-to-read LCD display can separately display aerobic steps and minutes walked more than 10 minutes continuously, so you always have the information you need right in front of you. Meanwhile, a seven day history lets you review a full week of exercise, and there’s also a 42-day memory for uploading past workouts to your PC. The device resets at midnight automatically so it’s ready to go every morning. Of course, the device can also function as a handy and highly accurate clock. It also comes with a detachable belt holder and security strap so it’s always close at hand. The HJ-720ITFFP is powered by a replaceable lithium battery (CR2032) that will last six months when used for walking 10,000 steps a day. The pedometer also includes PC software for Windows 2000 or XP, which keeps track of daily, weekly, monthly and yearly progress.

The included Omron Health Management Software provides a steps

• Measures steps, aerobic steps and minutes, calories and distance
• Separately displays aerobic steps and minutes walked more than 10 minutes continuously
• 7 day history lets you review a full week of exercise
• Features include large display, clock, detachable belt holder and security strap
• Ships in Certified Frustration-Free Packaging

Rating: (out of 1144 reviews)

List Price: $ 59.99
Price: $ 32.99

Tascam US122 Audio/MIDI Interface with Free Software

The US-122 features 2 XLR-based, phantom-powered mic inputs. As one of the only small computer interfaces with analog inserts, you can use the US-122 to place hardware devices (compressors, etc.) into the recording signal chain. Two line-level inputs on balanced 1/4 in. TRS jacks are included, and are switchable to guitar-level for direct instrument recording into your computer. The US-122 also provides a dedicated control for adjustable zero-latency direct monitoring, providing a sonically pure reference point before entering DAW processing.

• Tascam; US122; interface

Rating: (out of 3 reviews)

List Price: $ 269.00
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Sightmark 223 Rem Laser Boresight with Free Trophy Score Software

Power: < 5 mW
Battery type: (AG5)- 2 (AG3)- 3
Battery life: 1 hour
Range for sighting: 15-100 yards
Dot size at 100 yards: 2"
Operation: On/off end cap
Construction: Brass
Temperature: 10-50º
Includes battery pack and carrying case

• Precision accuracy. Reliable and durable
• Fastest gun zeroing and sighting system.
• Reduce wasted cartridges and shells.
• Compact and lightweight. Easy to pack and travel.
• Laser wavelength: 632-650 nm. LED type: Visible red laser. Power:

Price: $ 39.03