“‘The Linux kernel community is offering all companies free
Linux driver development,’ Greg Kroah-Hartman posted in an open
offer on the lkml, for all types of devices ‘from USB toys to PCI
video devices to high-speed networking cards.’ He explains, ‘all
that is needed is some kind of specification that describes how
your device works, or the email address of an engineer that is
willing to answer questions every once in a while. A few sample
devices might be good to have so that debugging doesn’t have to be
done by email, but if necessary, that can be done.’ He added, ‘if
your company is worried about NDA issues surrounding your device’s
specifications, we have arranged a program with OSDL/TLF’s Tech
Board to provide the legal framework where a company can interact
with a member of the kernel community in order to properly assure
that all needed NDA requirements are fulfilled.’ Greg suggests that
companies participating can allow their developers to focus on
drivers for other operating systems, ‘and you can add ‘supported on
Linux’ to your product’s marketing material…'”