I have made three modifications to the forum rules.

First, I removed the old rule #11 about posts being "Non-Offensive" since that rule was really redundant since the first rule was "Be Polite." However, I have added two sentences to the "Be Polite" rule that specifically addresses name-calling. I also have added a rule about security circumvention threads.

The two modified rules are:

1. BE POLITE. Everyone is expected to be polite and non-offensive. Snide comments are not necessary nor are they appropriate. If you'd like to answer a question by all means please do so--but do it without being offensive or impolite. NO NAME CALLING. Calling someone a name that is entirely derogatory that has no useful purpose other than being insulting (idiot, stupid, moron, etc.) will not be tolerated and may lead to immediate banning, with or without prior warning.
   
   
7. NO SECURITY CIRCUMVENTION MESSAGES WITHOUT PERMISSION. Do not post messages asking for help in breaking the security of a microcontroller. If you have a legitimate reason to break the security of a microcontroller, contact the webmaster to explain your situation and ask permission to post the message. Any message asking for information on breaking the security of microcontrollers that has not been previously cleared by the webmaster will be deleted.
   

I think this rule regarding security circumvention strikes a good balance. The truth is that pretty much every thread I remember that has wanted to circumvent security looked very suspicious; but if, someday, someone has a legitimate reason to break security, this rule allows for the possibility of that being discussed.

The full rules can be found, as always, here.

Regards,
Craig Steiner
8052.com Webmaster