Open Hardware vs Open Software - Understanding Ecosystem Differences and Collaboration

Learn about the fundamental differences between open-source software and hardware ecosystems in this 15-minute conference talk by Amphenol's Director of Standards and Technology. Explore how the Open Compute Project approaches hardware licensing, which prioritizes upfront design and patents while enabling reduced Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) for downstream products through modular integration. Gain valuable insights into fostering sustainable collaboration within open hardware communities, understanding licensing incentives, and discovering best practices for suppliers and manufacturers participating in open hardware economies. Examine how open hardware principles specifically apply to OCP Projects and Contributions, while understanding the unique challenges and opportunities in creating an environment that promotes effective hardware-focused collaboration.