Copyright issue with a driver

[m-s]

Hello

I am using an HP3314A function generator in my setup and its driver (like the instrument itself) is really old. I find that the driver needs updating (uses a fixed GPIB address of 7, has no error in / error out inputs, etc.).

However, the driver is copyrighted by National Instruments Corporation (1993). Now, I am not conversant with the restrictions that that imposes, so my question is - if I need to create a new driver, do I need to create one from the scratch, or can I build upon the pre-existing driver ?

Thanks.

[Christian Mergl]

Hello!

I know this driver, and it is realy kept quite simple. 🙂

Sure, you can build up an it, as long as you don't use it for any commercial circumstance!

Christian

[thehobbs]

Feel free to modify and update the driver. This is one reason why we distribute source code with our instrument drivers. I encourage you to submit any updates to NI's Instrument Driver Network (or instrument.drivers@ni.com) so that your improvements can be shared with the rest of the LabVIEW community.

Commercial use is appropriate if you develop an application with an instrument driver and need to distribute that driver with your application.  Mass distribution or hosting of NI copyrighted drivers themselves outside of NI's Instrument Driver Network is not appropriate.

NI's official terms of use are located in the legal section of ni.com.