Zebramod

A known set of modifications to LiteOn DVD writer firmwares, specifically for the LiteOn LDW-xx1S hardware revision. The intention of the modification is the process of circumventing the restriction of +R only writing specifications, allowing dual format recording "(+R and -R media)."

Contents

Etymology

The intention of the name "zebra" is not known for certain. It is sourced to the major contributor and producer of the modification, a firmware patcher, with the name of "zebra". The modification was released at Christmas time, in the year ending 2003. It was with much underground press and controversy that it found its way to the public domain. This controversy eventuated from the fact that to break the protection mechanisms of a single format drive was also breaking licencing laws of the DVD-Forum/DVD-Alliance. The modification was subsequently hosted by the enthusiasts site, [http://www.speedlabs.org Speedlabs.org]

Some believe the modification was produced out of spite for hardware sites whom had no concept of freedom-of-speech/information. Others believe it was simply created by a bored system administrator, whom wanted to attain the most from his hardware.

Identity of "zebra"

The origin of the hacker is not known for certain. He lives in Australia. It is widely accepted that he is some form of software engineer/system administrator with a background in low level languages. In the year 2004, a BLOG was created, by the hacker known as "zebra" in the forum of a news site. It is currently maintained as of 23/05/05. Some months after, the blog was taken down indefinitely at the request of several associates of companies close to LiteOn IT.

Organisation

A "team" zebra exists in the forum of the testing/patching team resident within [http://www.speedlabs.org Speedlabs.org] . Subsequent years have lead to the establishment of a drive testing/reviewing role for zebra. This "team" now have some part in at least two companies internal prototyping of ODD's.

External links

* [http://www.speedlabs.org Speedlabs.org]