What experience did you guys have with asking vendors for datasheets - does that usually work? Should you mention you need it for adding LinuxBIOS support, or does that reduce your chances to get the datasheet?
Depends on the company. Pretty much have to make that call on a case by case basis.
Obviously, there's no use in getting a datasheet under NDA, we wouldn't be able to distribute code derived from that under the GPL, right?
Again Depends. Some companies will allow you to release code based on docs under NDA but you need to make sure you know this _before_ you look at the docs or your code could be considered violating the NDA.
Specifically, I'm looking for the IT8671F datasheet, which I cannot find on the net, either. Should I contact ITE?
What vendor carries ITE in its linecard? Perhaps can get a copy somewhere through our vendors.