[coreboot] Minifree Libreboot D16 server/workstation launched

[Taiidan at gmx.com]

On 01/07/2017 09:37 PM, Timothy Pearson wrote:

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> On 01/07/2017 07:26 PM, Taiidan at gmx.com wrote:
>> I would care to disagree with.
>> "The Libreboot D16 Server is the only high-end, business-grade, secure
>> owner-controlled server that safeguards your privacy, security and
>> freedom."
>>
>> *x86-64* should be added in, as you can buy a reasonably *for what you
>> get* priced POWER8 server that has open source firmware such as the TYAN
>> Palmetto or one from IBM's POWER line both of which have way more juice.
> This is true only within limits.  Purchasing a Palmetto, which is a
> severely underpowered OpenPOWER system with only one Centaur, costs over
> $3k USD.  Tyan's systems do not come with open source firmware, and the
> next IBM system up to offer (but not ship with) open firmware is the
> S822LC, which starts at nearly $7k USD.
>
> Raptor Engineering would be willing to free up the Tyan systems under
> contract, but as we do not use the Tyan systems internally we would not
> do this work as part of our normal operations.
>
>> Although this is the best and last free x86-64 motherboard so IMO
>> everyone should get one while they still can.
>>
>> Heres to hoping POWER-ME is never invented.
> +1.  The best way to ensure it isn't invented is to contact IBM and
> state the reasons you are considering an OpenPOWER system (open
> firmware, lack of vendor signatures, etc.).
>
> - -- 
> Timothy Pearson
> Raptor Engineering
> +1 (415) 727-8645 (direct line)
> +1 (512) 690-0200 (switchboard)
> https://www.raptorengineering.com
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Ah thanks for the info, I had thought all IBM POWER8 systems had open 
firmware :(
So to confirm, the more reasonably priced S812LC for 4.8K doesn't have 
it? What a shame.

Yeah I proselytized by asking them a few questions on the web-form but 
they never replied.
I asked them:
If you can use them as workstations by slotting in a graphics card and 
attaching it to a VM like with x86 IOMMU GFX.
Which systems have open blob free firmware and how easy it is to do a 
user-compile/flash.
What is the difference between the shipping firmware and the "open" 
firmware.

Man things are really going to hell these days, nothing we buy is really 
ours - even the box of trash bags in my kitchen has an EULA printed on 
the bottom.