What is the meaning of 'Open Source' in electrical and computer field?

[pairofstrings]

Thanks!

 

[Adyssa]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Open_source

Open Source generally means that the source code for the project is "open", so a user can modify it. Different licenses exist, the GPL is a common one, in which the user is obliged to release their modified source code.

Open Source does not necessarily imply that the product is free, although it often does.

 

[uart]

Thanks!

I think you mean the "software" field. In the electrical field "open source" would be a mosfet device that required an external pull down resistor. :tongue:

 

[MATLABdude]

I think you mean the "software" field. In the electrical field "open source" would be a mosfet device that required an external pull down resistor. :tongue:

I've seen some "open source" hardware projects as well (including the Arduino platform which seems to be quite popular here--having never used it, I can't comment on it). Aside from the new name, I don't know if there's really anything new conceptually, since lots of electronics hobbyists and EEs have shared (in magazine, BBS, or forum format) schematics, code, layouts / gerbers, and in turn, refined and re-shared what they had.

 

[LudusRex]

Open source in the electrical and computer field refers to software or hardware that is freely available and can be modified, shared, and distributed by anyone. This means that the source code (the underlying instructions that make a program or device work) is accessible to the public and can be modified and improved upon by users. This concept promotes collaboration and innovation within the field, as individuals and companies can work together to create better and more efficient solutions. Open source also allows for greater transparency and accountability, as the code can be reviewed and audited by anyone. It has become a popular approach in the electrical and computer field, as it allows for the development of high-quality and cost-effective solutions.