# Decibel

> software framework of KDE

**Wikidata**: [Q1181833](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1181833)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/decibel

## Summary
Decibel is a software framework of KDE, written in Python and distributed under free software licenses. It serves as a foundational component for building applications within the KDE ecosystem.

## Key Facts
- **Type**: Software framework and free software
- **Programming Language**: Python
- **Licenses**: GNU Lesser General Public License, version 2.1 and GNU General Public License, version 2.0 or later
- **Part of**: KDE Software Compilation 4
- **Official Website**: https://techbase.kde.org/Projects/Decibel
- **Aliases**: Decibel (KDE)
- **Free Software Directory Entry**: Decibel
- **Copyright Status**: Copyrighted
- **Wikipedia Languages**: German, Spanish, Japanese, Dutch, Chinese

## FAQs
### Q: What is Decibel?
A: Decibel is a software framework developed for KDE, written in Python and distributed under free software licenses. It provides foundational tools for building applications within the KDE ecosystem.

### Q: What licenses govern Decibel?
A: Decibel is dual-licensed under the GNU Lesser General Public License, version 2.1, and the GNU General Public License, version 2.0 or later. This allows flexibility for different use cases while ensuring free software compatibility.

### Q: Is Decibel still actively developed?
A: Decibel is part of KDE Software Compilation 4, though its current development status isn't specified in the source material. Its inclusion in KDE's official documentation and free software directory indicates its historical significance within the project.

### Q: How does Decibel relate to other KDE components?
A: Decibel functions as a software framework within KDE Software Compilation 4, providing structural support for KDE applications. It is distinct from end-user applications but serves as a building block for other KDE software.

## Why It Matters
Decibel represents a critical infrastructure component within the KDE ecosystem, enabling developers to create applications efficiently through its Python-based framework. As free software, it embodies the principles of open collaboration and user freedom, allowing users to run, study, modify, and distribute the code. Its dual licensing strategy balances compatibility with existing software while encouraging broader adoption. By standardizing development practices within KDE, Decibel contributes to the consistency and reliability of the desktop environment, ultimately enhancing the user experience across Linux and other platforms.

## Notable For
- **Python Implementation**: Uniquely uses Python as its core programming language within the predominantly C++-based KDE ecosystem
- **Dual Licensing**: Combines LGPLv2.1 and GPLv2.0+ licenses to accommodate diverse integration scenarios
- **KDE Integration**: Serves as a foundational framework component in KDE Software Compilation 4
- **Free Software Recognition**: Listed in the Free Software Directory, affirming its open-source credentials
- **Multi-language Documentation**: Officially documented in five languages (German, Spanish, Japanese, Dutch, Chinese), reflecting its international reach

## Body
### Overview
Decibel is a software framework designed for the KDE project, functioning as a structural foundation for applications. It is classified as both a software framework and free software, emphasizing its role in enabling open-source development within the KDE ecosystem.

### Technical Specifications
- **Programming Language**: Python
- **Licenses**: 
  - GNU Lesser General Public License, version 2.1
  - GNU General Public License, version 2.0 or later
- **System Integration**: Part of KDE Software Compilation 4
- **Identifiers**: Freebase ID /m/0h0hpl

### Development Context
- **Project Scope**: Framework for KDE applications
- **Licensing Flexibility**: Dual licensing supports both proprietary and open-source integration
- **Community Recognition**: Entry in the Free Software Directory
- **Documentation**: Available in German, Spanish, Japanese, Dutch, and Chinese via Wikipedia

### Resources
- **Official Documentation**: https://techbase.kde.org/Projects/Decibel
- **Visual Identity**: Logo available at https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Special:FilePath/Decibel2.png
- **Aliases**: Decibel (KDE) for contextual identification within KDE projects

## References

1. [Open Hub](https://www.openhub.net/p/decibel-audio-player)
2. [The decibel-audio-player Open Source Project on Open Hub: Languages Page](https://www.openhub.net/p/decibel-audio-player/analyses/latest/languages_summary)
3. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013