By Eamonn Ryan derived from a SAIRAC Johannesburg Centre TechTalk on 12 February
In the February SAIRC Johannesburg Centre TechTalk presented by Robert Fox, SAIRAC national president with over 31 years of experience, he discusses the critical differences between open-source and proprietary solutions for HVAC systems. As a senior cost and design estimator at Club Refrigeration, Fox has extensive insight into both the challenges and benefits associated with each system. This is Part 1 of a ten-part series.
Robert Fox, SAIRAC national president. © RACA Journal
Fox begins by outlining the characteristics of proprietary systems, which are designed and controlled by specific manufacturers. These systems involve hardware and software that are closed-source, meaning the source code is not accessible unless a license is purchased. This licensing model comes with legal agreements, restricting modifications and redistribution unless explicitly allowed by the manufacturer. Proprietary systems are typically designed to meet strict industry standards and regulatory compliance, which is critical for sectors like pharmaceuticals, food storage and other industries where temperature and environmental control are vital.
Fox emphasises that proprietary solutions are often favoured due to their reliability and regulatory compliance. For example, many proprietary systems are already FDA 21 Part 11-compliant, which ensures that the system meets specific standards for electronic records and signatures. In highly regulated environments, such as pharmaceutical or food industries, these systems are indispensable.
Contrasting with proprietary systems, Fox explains open-source solutions, which provide access to the source code and are freely distributed. One of the primary advantages of open-source systems is their flexibility, allowing users to customise the software to suit their unique needs. However, while the code is freely accessible, contributors must be acknowledged when redistributing open-source software, a key distinction from proprietary systems.
Despite these benefits, open-source solutions are not without challenges. Fox points out that in certain applications, such as those requiring FDA compliance, open-source solutions may be unsuitable due to the lack of formal certifications and testing. Furthermore, liability is a significant concern. For instance, if an open-source HVAC system were to fail in a critical application—such as a cold storage facility—there could be serious financial repercussions. In these cases, businesses may be hesitant to adopt open-source systems due to the higher perceived risks and lack of official support.
