Good answer Michael. Most of the time our actions should be governed by what is right as opposed to what is legal. Frankly, most of the times when you need to be concerned about what is legal, it's because you're too close to the line.

BTW,

It seems that US copyright isn't so <> to UK copyright as Steve might think. In the case of individual copyright protection it's pretty much as he described in the US as well. The caveat is that I don't know how it works for corporate ownership of copyright.

As to the original post, I suspect that the websites listed would be fine if they just wrote to OrCad and asked for permission. The fact is that I don't know anyone, working either as a professional or serious hobbyist, who can make use of DOS software anymore. I know that I can't. On the other hand, if there are people out there who can, I suspect that OrCad would be delighted to have others out there moving those potential new customers toward a preference for OrCad. Many of them will never become customers of any EDA software companies, but some will. And I suspect that OrCad will greatly appreciate them coming into the market predisposed to OrCad's brand and products.

But if not, then you are absolutely correct Michael. Theft is theft. Do unto others as you'd have them do unto you. All that is lawful is not expedient.