Embedded software projects under GPL

[Andreas]

Simo Sorce wrote:

>> Is it possible to put the hardware
>> design (e.g. schematics) under GPL as well?
>
> Afaik circuits layouts have specific protection.
> It's called "patent" but it is much like copyright.

This applies for the chip design and propably for the
reference implementation of the manufacturer of the
microprocessor.

This applies _not_ for the circuit design outside on top
of the reference design. For a microcontroller based
application not only the microcontroller is needed, but
parts and componentes specific to the application as well.


Andreas