Electronics > Open Source Hardware

Open Source Project Worries

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PetaVolt:
I recently made a triac controller with dimming and the whole bit board for putting 110 volt Christmas lights to music or whatever else.  My main concern is that in releasing it someone will attempt to build it and either electrocute them self or burn their house down.  Also when I designed the board I am almost sure I didn't leave enough space between the high voltage traces let alone routed notches.  Am I overly concerned?

HardBoot:
Well just have a schematic and parts list and don't bother with the PCB payout, anyone can make it themselves in 5 mins anyways and then it's their problem.
If you want a public schematic, just say it's not to code, not safe, etc. Or make it really safe. You're good either way.

JuKu:
If you want to share, label it to be what you say it really is: A good start for further development.

EEVblog:

--- Quote from: PetaVolt on January 02, 2013, 05:06:30 am ---I recently made a triac controller with dimming and the whole bit board for putting 110 volt Christmas lights to music or whatever else.  My main concern is that in releasing it someone will attempt to build it and either electrocute them self or burn their house down. 

--- End quote ---

Unless you intentionally designed it to be dangerous, and released it with malicious intent, you have nothing (legally) to worry about.


--- Quote ---Also when I designed the board I am almost sure I didn't leave enough space between the high voltage traces let alone routed notches.

--- End quote ---

Then don't release the layout, or release it with a notice that you think the clearance is not enough, and recommend not to use as-is.

Today's paranoid driven culture about being sued if you breath wrong, has a lot to answer for!  :--

Dave.

David_AVD:
Document it as what you built for yourself, not as a "hey everyone, you can make this too" project.

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