What is an alphaWorks technology?
alphaWorks technologies represent some of the latest software innovations from IBM research and development labs. They are new and emerging technologies showcased at the earliest stages of research and development.
What are the terms and conditions for using alphaWorks technologies?
alphaWorks technologies are not IBM products. They are all licensed "as is" without any support or warranty, and generally for evaluation purposes only, for a complimentary, 90-day trial period. Each technology has a license agreement that you must accept before being able to download and use it.
How can I download an alphaWorks technology?
You can download a technology by clicking on the "Download now" button on the righthand navigation or the "Download" tab near the top of the specific technology page. You must first register in order to obtain log-in information, which consists of an IBM ID and password. You must then accept the license agreement in order to download the technology.
How do I obtain a license to use an alphaWorks technology?
Each technolgy has a license agreement that can be viewed and accepted after you have logged in with your IBM ID (by clicking on the "Download now" button on the specific technology page).
Must I pay for a license in order to use an alphaWorks technology?
alphaWorks technologies are generally complimentary for a 90-day trial and evaluation. Some technologies possess special terms, especially for the academic community. Please refer to the license agreement for further details.
How can I stay updated on alphaWorks news and technologies?
There are two ways to stay informed about the latest emerging technologies, technology updates, and news from IBM alphaWorks:
Subscribe to the alphaWorks Newsletter.
Subscribe to Really Simple Syndication (RSS) feeds.
What if I have questions about a technology? What type of support is provided for alphaWorks technologies?
Although no official technical support is provided, every technology has an established Help or FAQ section. Your questions and comments are encouraged and welcomed in the forum for each technology. Your questions will be answered by the research teams who monitor the forums or by the community using the same technology.
How do I report any bugs I find in a technology or suggest additional features?
Bug fixes and suggestions can be posted in the forum for each specific technology. Be sure to include the details of the bug you are reporting, including an example if possible. This information will allow the researchers who developed the technology and the community who use it to respond to your concerns.
How often are alphaWorks technologies updated?
Most researchers work continually to improve their technologies. They release bug fixes and updates about once per quarter, depending on the technology and feedback received. Return to alphaWorks regularly to check for new technologies and updates, to check the forums, and to share evaluations for the technology.
What happens when a technology has graduated or retired?
When a technology has graduated (been incorporated into an IBM product, donated to an open-source project, etc.) or been retired, it is removed from the Web site and is no longer available for downloading from alphaWorks. The technology's overview page is replaced with a graduation or retirement notice and, if possible, further information and links.
