NY Times on Open Source Hardware

The New York Times has an article on the Neuros Technology media recorder.  The product is called the OSD and is an example of the growing trend towards open source hardware.  Key quote:

"The company, based in Chicago, is providing full documentation of the hardware platform for its recorder, the Neuros OSD (for open source device), so that skilled users can customize or “hack” the device — and then pass along the improvements to others."

While open source hardware is designed for hackers and hobbyists to play with, the hardware is also designed to create platforms that other companies will use in their products.  Other examples of companies pursuing this strategy are Chumby and Bug Labs. 

Open source hardware will allow small businesses to easily modify or incorporate electronics into new or existing products.  This will create new opportunities for small businesses.

The O'Reilly Radar blog has more on this article and open source hardware in general.