Maybe I read between the lines something that wasn't there but it sure seems like you are making the programming out to be trivial.

If you look at the context of the whole post maybe I was downplaying the programming aspect. But that post was also looking at this based on what was "sold" to the client. And for many clients what is involved in the programming is unknown nor do they care as long as it works. It ends up just being another line item on a long list of billable things. And that is what this thread is all about, what the client thinks they are getting.
I think you posted that the "code" is supplied to your clients, thus their systems could be worked on by another competent programmer.
Many do not get this, nor do they understand that they need it for future possible upgrades or if their programmer / integration company go under or disapear.
Thus Julie's reason for the research.

Oh yea, I really don't think calling my post ignorant and absurd was the nicest thing anyone has said to me lately. I actually do know plenty about AMX systems.

I really have no way to know how much you know I can only go by what you said. If you go back and read my post I called what you wrote ignorant and absurd not you.

OC - not sure what's getting you so testy. The consensus here meshes with your own practices. Give the customer UP FRONT the option to get the code, whether free, for a fee, or in escrow.

Honestly I was offended and hurt when I saw sirroundsound's remarks. It's hard not to get defensive about my profession when someone that I would have hoped knows better makes my profession out to be unskilled commodities that are a dime a dozen.