02-01-2016, 05:09 AM
(01-23-2016, 12:58 PM)tllim Wrote: We did not see the reason of release PCB source file is necessary. In general, schematic and PCB image file already enough for board modification which I have been practiced for more than 30 years.
One main reason is we don't mind DIY modify the board for their project needs but we don't plan to support the modified board such as optimized DRAM path for overclocking.
Pine64 is NOT an open source hardware project (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_op...e_projects).
Indeed, traditionally it is very uncommon to release the full details (including the PCB source files) of the board.
The trend is changing, slowly.
Here is an example from Olimex, that not only do they release the PCB source files, but they also switched to using Kicad (open-source) instead of EAGLE,
https://olimex.wordpress.com/2016/01/08/...cad-files/
If anyone wants to make a new device from the Olimex design, they need to use a different brand name because they do not have access to the trademark.
The idea is that anyone can make compatible boards, however the consumer should trust the brand when they buy.
Pine64 is quite strong as a new brand and the boards are very cheap for competitors to start copying.