[RANT] Why the PCISIG sucks

[Cognition]

So today I was looking around the PCI SIG site as I do periodically, hoping that maybe they'd start selling specifications for a decent sum of money or offer as free to download wise like damn near most other groups in control of major system specifications do. I was surprised to find that the cost of the PCI express base specification has shot up to $3500 USD. Is it just me or does this strike anyone as just a blatant barrier to market entry at this point? It's cheaper to flat out join the organization now then it is to buy a useful specification. I mean I understand the cost of developing a technology, but this seems excessive for a non profit organization.

[Combuster]

My observation is that no sane person here gets the documents from them

The relevant specifications are present in other locations and forms. Try an intel chipset manual for starters, but I agree its a good excuse to start supporting the local Pirate Party.

[Cognition]

Yeah I have pretty good support as is, but on principle I generally like to support people or organizations that take the time to hash this stuff out. But the PCI SIG is the only real organization I've seen that combines ridiculous pricing schemes with a pretty crazy policing policy when it comes to their specs. Oh well perhaps someone will stick the FTC on them at some point.