The application of open source software, and especially of Linux, in embedded systems for the control and networking of devices, machines and facilities, opens up an important new field of application for this type of software.

This development is being accelerated by changing requirements in terms of software choice: Embedded open source solutions are convincing due to the availability of their source code, their technical transparency, stability, scalability and support of various hardware platforms, as well as due to their network compatibility and safety.

The Nürnberg area is an important location for the development of embedded systems. In this region, they are primarily being used in the automotive industry as well as in telecommunication, automation and medical technology.

The region is attractive due to the availability of comprehensive know-how in the development of embedded systems along the complete value creation chain - from chip design via the development of hardware platforms and the integration of software up to the development of applications and products for the consumer and investment goods market.

The aim of the Embedded Project of the Open Source Business Foundation e.V. is to develop the Nürnberg metropolitan area into an important centre for embedded open source software and systems engineering and to create a network of companies from the entire value creation chain within and beyond the boundaries of the Nürnberg region.

For companies, membership of the Open Source Business Foundation e.V. and active participation in the Embedded Initiative offer the following advantages:

• Access to a supraregional network of people, companies and scientific facilities as well as graduates who have specialized in the topic of embedded open source software

• Facilitated initiation of cooperative partnerships and utilization of synergies between companies and the participating scientific institutions

• Easier and faster access to relevant information about innovations and markets, and facilitated access to research results

• Easy access to specialized suppliers and service providers along the value creation chain

• Improved perception of one's own open source activities by others via the network

• Uncomplicated exchange of information about developments in the field of embedded open source and anticipation of upcoming market trends

The Embedded Systems Institute (ESI) of the University of Erlangen-Nürnberg forms the scientific core of the Embedded Project of the Open Source Business Foundation e.V. At the same time, the Foundation acts as an association for supporting the development of the ESI and as a connecting link to the companies.

Are you interested in further information and in becoming a member?

Please contact us:

Dr. Uwe Kracke
Open Source Business Foundation e.V.
Maxfeldstraße 9, D 90409 Nürnberg
Tel.: +49 911 180 1501
Fax: +49 911 180 1505
E-mail: uwe.kracke@osbf.de