On Sunday 16 October 2005 20:19, R Goodwin wrote:
It would be a great help if everybody who writes an answer would read what they wrote from a newbie perspective before sending it. If it is offensive then don't send it.
It would also help if users that are new to Linux focussed a bit on all the things they CAN do, rather than the 0.1% they can't, and asked questions in a less whinging fashion. The nature of the free software development process means that in multimedia Linux is still somewhat behind Microsoft Windows, but in the case of DVDs there is also the added legal/patent complication. There is no point in trying to close the stable door once the horse has bolted - once a DMCA law has been passed in your jurisdiction, free software is at a disadvantage. How many of you are complaining about that to the companies that make these DVDs you are buying, or to the legislators who passed the laws that discriminate against you? If you want to play hogtied content with no problems (except viruses, lack of choice, cost, lock-in, etc), stay on Microsoft Windows. If you want to use Linux, you have no option but to read around a bit and find a way around this *legal*, not technological, minefield. Alternatively, for those of you who really do want to make it simpler for new users, set up a webpage on your site with copies of the relevant rpms. If you have a jurisdiction with DMCA-like legislation, we will all cheer you on when you get sued. If you're not willing to take that risk, why should Novell, just so that you can do less reading? The reason some answers are given in a shortish fashion is because people seem to think that if they ask the same question 4 times they will get a different answer that they will like better - it doesn't work like that, I'm afraid. -- Pob hwyl / Best wishes Kevin Donnelly www.kyfieithu.co.uk - Meddalwedd Rhydd yn Gymraeg www.cymrux.org.uk - Linux Cymraeg ar un CD