Month: October 2002
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"Digital Media Device" Definition from the Hollings CBDTPA
Several readers have asked me to post the precise definition of “digital media device” from the Hollings CBDTPA. Here it is: DIGITAL MEDIA DEVICE. – The term “digital media device” means any hardware or software that – (A) reproduces copyrighted works in digital form; (B) converts copyrighted works in digital form into a form whereby…
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Fritz's Hit List #8
Today on Fritz’s Hit List: the TinkleToonz Musical Potty. This handy toilet training aid offers a “magical, musical land of potty training,” by playing a tune whenever liquid is deposited in it. Since it plays digital audio, it qualifies for regulation as a “digital media device” under the Hollings CBDTPA. If the CBDTPA passes, any…
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Technology: Unknown or Unknowable?
I’ve been reading what various Washington people are saying about the Berman-Coble peer-to-peer hacking bill. Many people agree that if the bill is passed, a sort of arms race will develop between the p2p-disrupters and the p2p-developers. The disrupters will deploy a new technology to foil p2p networks; the developers will cook up a countermeasure;…
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Fritz's Hit List #7
Today on Fritz’s Hit List: the Shop With Me Barbie toy cash register. This product, which plays digital audio, qualifies for regulation as a “digital media device” under the Hollings CBDTPA. If the CBDTPA passes, any newly manufactured Barbie cash registers will have to incorporate government-approved copy restriction technology. Fight piracy – regulate toy cash…