[mdlug] Open source MySQL - MySQL Creator: Oracle to Purchase Sun which Owns M ySQL

[Adam Tauno Williams]

> Sun started giving away Solaris as a loss-leader to
> induce people to buy sparc-based machines (if you
> pay the big bucks, you get the big performance).

The performance of Sun hardware vs. Intel is arguable.  Basically you
pay the big-bucks for a Sun Microsystem logo.  Everyone pretty much
knows that, which is why they have been hemorrhaging cash for years.
They have lots of technology patents and a skilled workforce, which are
probably of interest to Oracle.

> Maybe I'm just stupid, but I don't see any possible way
> that MySQL can be used to draw customers to Oracle's
> money-making products.

MySQL Inc. has a profitable services arm;  perhaps they will just let
that run and ... do what businesses do ... make money.   And when some
of those customers outgrow MySQL they can be at the ready to recommend
Oracle and provide migration services.  Keep them from going to
Informix, DB2, or Microsoft SQL Server.   It makes pretty good sense to
me.