Re: Circumventing the GPL

[Tim Smith]

In article <Gl5ik.3482$gg.782@fe111.usenetserver.com>,
 Hyman Rosen <hyrosen@mail.com> wrote:

> Tim Smith wrote:
> > If you are distributing your copies
> 
> What gave you the right to make copies?

GPL.  For example, suppose I run a small business.  I have 20 computers.  
I want to install some GPL software on them Monday.  Over the weekend, I 
download the software at home, and make 20 copies, on 20 CDs.  I happen 
to be out of CD-RW discs, so I burn to CD-R.

Monday, I take the 20 CDs to the office, and install on all 20 machines, 
feeling pretty impressed about how I saved a lot of time by having 20 
CDs so I could install on all 20 machines in parallel.

I have no more use for the 20 CDs, and since they are CD-R, not CD-RW, I 
can't erase them.  So I put them up for sale on eBay, like I do with all 
surplus equipment.

The copies were pretty clearly made lawfully under GPL.  I am clearly 
the owner of the copies.  So, why can't I take advantage of first sale 
and sell them, without the need of copyright permission?

-- 
--Tim Smith