Often, the price of an (embedded) product is calculated as the sum of all parts (the BOM) times two. For long, this basic-formula was both simple and correct. Today, however, now software is becoming a big "part" we have to change it, as the BOM-cost of software is zero. When Linux is used, the formula is very 'wrong'; using a "big" Linux is cheaper the a smaller one. The smaller the code has to be, the more development costs! With a simple case, those hidden cost of Linux are shown, for managers and other non-Linux experts (and even for some Linux-folks, who don't understand management or costs ...

1. The cost of ‘free’ Linux . And other open-source solutions Tensegrity is a blend of ‘tensional’ and ‘integrity’, a synergy of balanced tension and compression. The poles in a tensegrity-tower seem to float in air. Although they might look confusing, these structures are really very simple. All you need is to be very methodical when building them. It is an architectural principle for sky-high building and an example for SW engineering!

8. some cases What we can learn from others An example where everything goes completely and totally wrong is much more humoristic than any other Intro Cases Cost Adv Risks

15. Cost advantages of Linux and open-source Open-source/Linux in technical/embedded systems is not ‘gratis’ . However, there are cost advantages, even beyond the trivial. Intro Cases Cost Adv Risks