In a recent article published by Photonics Spectra (photonics.com), Red Pitaya CTO Črt Valentinčič explores why open-source hardware and developer-friendly platforms are no longer optional—but strategically essential for modern R&D.
As engineering challenges grow more complex across aerospace, automation, robotics, and quantum technologies, closed and proprietary hardware stacks are struggling to keep up. In contrast, open ecosystems enable faster iteration, deeper customization, and long-term resilience by eliminating vendor lock-in and opaque licensing barriers.
The article highlights real-world examples—from RISC-V adoption in global semiconductor initiatives to open platforms like Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and Red Pitaya STEMlab—showing how transparency and modularity allow teams to focus on true innovation instead of reinventing basic building blocks. Open hardware accelerates prototyping, reduces costs, and ensures projects remain maintainable and adaptable as requirements evolve.
The conclusion is clear: openness is no longer a philosophical preference, but a strategic advantage. For engineering leaders and R&D teams, adopting open-source hardware is key to staying agile, competitive, and future-proof in a rapidly changing technological landscape.
Read the full article on Photonics Spectra:
Open Source Solutions are the Most Strategically Viable Path for Modern R&D (by Črt Valentinčič)
December 17, 2025
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