Installation Information when they convey object code in a User Product.

In brief, the right to convey object code in a defined class of ``User

Products,'' under certain circumstances, on providing whatever information is

required to enable a recipient to replace the object code with a functioning

modified version.

This was a compromise that was difficult for the FSF to agree to during the

GPLv3 drafting process.  However, companies and governments that use

specialized or enterprise-level computer facilities reported that they

actually \textit{want} their systems not to be under their own control.

Rather than agreeing to this as a concession, or bowing to pressure, they ask

here, since the main problem lies elsewhere.

While imposing technical barriers to modification is wrong regardless of

circumstances, the areas where restricted devices are of the greatest

practical concern today fall within the User Product definition.  Most, if

not all, technically-restricted devices running GPL-covered programs are

consumer electronics devices.  Moreover, the disparity in clout between the

manufacturers and these users makes it difficult for the users to reject

technical restrictions through their weak and unorganized market power.  Even

limited to User Products, this provision addresses the fundamental problem.

% FIXME-LATER: link \href to USC 2301