Sun wanted to release T1 processor RTL under the GPLv2 so that the community would have access to processor technology under an open source license. The GPLv2 gives user the freedom to run, copy, distribute, study, change and improve the technology. More precisely, it refers to four kinds of freedom, for the users of the technology:

• The freedom to use the technology for any purpose.
• The freedom to study how the technology works, and adapt it to your needs.
• The freedom to redistribute copies so you can help others in the community.
• The freedom to improve the technology, and release your improvements to the public, so that the whole community benefits.

The GPLv2 license is viewable here. Unofficial translations can also be found there atTranslations. The GPLv2 meets the requirements of the Open Source Definition and has been approved as an open source license by the Open Source Initiative.