> SAN JOSE, CA - May 4, 2009 - Magma today announced the availability of the
> Quartz DRC and Quartz LVS 2009.05 physical verification tools. ... Magma
> also announced the "Liberate Me" program, enabling engineers to test drive
> Quartz DRC and Quartz LVS at no charge for 60 days. 


To: John Cayo <john.cayo=user domain=verizon.net>

Hi, John,

I saw the "Liberate Me" program where Magma announced 60 days free Quartz
for anyone.  Well, I thought "this sounds great"!  As an industry consultant
I'm asked to work in multiple customer tool environments.  By applying to
Magma's "Liberate Me" program I would get to learn a new version of Magma's
tool for free and get a few practice runs out of it.

I'd also get an opportunity to help provide my customers with useful hands
on feedback about the pros and cons of the Quartz offering.

But, after I signed up, Magma quickly decided I was not a sales opportunity
and my request was summarily denied.

Now if I'm asked "is any design in 2 hours just marketing fluff?" I can only
state I have my suspicions as I was denied the opportunity to find out.

So, what gives?  Is Liberate Me not open to everyone as their press release
implied?  Evidently there really is no such thing as a free lunch unless you
can afford to pay for the lunch anyhow!

    - John Cayo
      DSM Solutions, LLC                         Garland, TX