Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  What is Kernel Labs?
A:  Kernel Labs is a coalition of like minded Linux software engineers who’s primary goals is to improve the Linux platform for audio / video applications. We’re determined to raise the overall quality bar and improve the GPL drivers for everyone.

Q:  Is this a fork of the LinuxTV project?
A:  No.  We will continue to submit GPL’d kernel driver code through the LinuxTV project so that it gets into the mainline Linux kernel.  Further, the developers will continue to be active contributors on the linux-media and video4linux mailing lists.  However, the Kernel Labs developers will be using http://www.kernellabs.com/hg for hosting of their development source code trees.

Q:  Why are you doing this then?
A:  There are several incentives to forming a small group of developers who are focused on the Linux TV experience.  These include having a centralized blog so interested parties can follow along on development, having a commercial entity that can sign NDAs, a pooling of knowledge, experience, equipment, and problem solving skills.  Because most of us are in the New York City area, we can meet periodically to work together in person on hard-to-solve problems.

Q:  What are you currently working on?
A: See the Projects page for details on current projects, or see the Kernel Labs Blog for up-to-moment information.

Q:  I am vendor who would like to see a device supported under Linux?  Can I contract out the work to you?
A:  Yes!  Kernel Labs would be more than willing to entertain contract work to improve your device’s support under Linux.  One of the goals of Kernel Labs is to provide an avenue for commercial entities to obtain high quality professional services in the area of audio and video under Linux.

Q:  I am a company who wants to discuss a project under NDA.  Can you do that?
A:  As a commercial entity, Kernel Labs will be able to sign non-disclosure agreements with both customers and chipset vendors as needed.