Db4objects has added an open source licensing option to its object database targeting real-time control systems, software products, and devices such as mobile electronics, game consoles, medical equipment, and automotive systems. The license option enables open source projects to freely use the code in Db4o.

Companies developing and shipping proprietary products incorporating Db40 will continue to pay for commercial licenses, which include support and indemnification, Db4objects says.

Db4objects calls db4o “the world's first native Java and .NET object database.” It says the database simplifies development by storing objects in their native format, rather than requiring translation into SQL or another format. The company says the database is used in the control system behind Spain's AVE high-speed train system, and in performance cars from BMW.

Db4objects Chairman Mark Leslie said, “The db4objects software is a mature and stable product. Our dual license initiative will rapidly expand our presence in [real-time embedded systems].”

Eric Falsken, lead application developer at medical device company Massie Labs, said, “Our medical customers rely on db4o to store and compare retinal images for health diagnosis. [It] requires zero administration.”

 
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