ethics

I am curious about the ethics of using the code from sites like this. I always change it to suit my needs and eliminate any part of it that is useless to me, but how much do i need to change to make it "mine". I use the code as an example to write my own, but i can only change so much of it. i just wanted your input on this.
thanks

I think the code on here is anyone's who reads it, I don't think anyones gonna get upset if you use the code for commercial use, I know it wouldn't bother me.

Here's what I do:
1. I store all examples that I could have any use for.
2. When I need something I look at an example and copy some or all and if needed I'll modify it for my need. Often, it seems like the modifying part is nessesary cuz I want to make the code in my specific style: compressed, light and easy to use. Not allways commented. Mostly I give a **** about who originally made it.
3. I say this code is "mine" indirectly as a part of my prog. But there are certain codes that are originally mine that I have done complete by my own that I want to call "mine". But what makes the actual difference? If both codes are in my style, who could say which one is original?
4. I always prefer to use my own code so I often totally rewrite the code based on the example. Doing this, you could make it "your own" code

Personally, I think if you answer an question, and upload code, you have to be prepared for people using it. Then of course you can have a comment in your app, or a thanks to people who have helped you if you want to.
That's the way I see it.

Pentax

Generally this is a simple question under current international intellectual property right laws. If you post a question, or read another person's post, and then use an answer as a basis for your own code you are ok. The idea being you "cannot unlearn something once you have learn't it".

However if you log into a site which has licensing warnings, download some code, drop it unchanged into one of your own programs, you are in breach of the sites intellectual property rights.

This is alweays going to be a tough call. Witness attempts to claim breaches by various companies against MS Excel. Not one case was won. Basically if you change enough in the code, then even if it preforms exactly the same functions as the original piece of code, it is your own property.

I have posted a number of things at different vb sites, and do not regard any of them as of my property. The idea of this sites and others is to pass on knowledge and ask for help. :)

I don't think that samples on this UBB have copyright. Basicaly, what people are looking for is a credit. It means that if you use any of examples here, just mention their names in your About box.