An anonymous reader quotes InfoWorld on the new certifications from the Open Source Hardware Association:
The goal of certification is to clearly identify open-source hardware separate from the mish-mash of other hardware products. The certification allows hardware designs to be replicated. For certification, OSHWA requires hardware creators to publish a bill-of-materials list, software, schematics, design files, and other documents required to make derivative products. Those requirements could apply to circuit boards, 3D printed cases, electronics, processors, and any other hardware that meets OSHWA’s definition of open-source hardware…OSHWA will host a directory for all certified products, something that doesn’t exist today because the community is so fragmented.

After signing a legally-binding agreement, hardware makers are allowed to use the Open Hardware mark, which one of their board members believes will help foster a stronger sense of community among hardware makers. “People want to be associated with open source.”

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