OpenTough
Open-source rugged enclosure for modular laptop mainboards
The project enables reliable computing in harsh and off-grid environments where consumer laptops often fail - including disaster response, field research, outdoor education, and industrial use. At the same time, it explicitly targets everyday consumers who want a reliable, mechanically robust, long-lasting laptop for normal work and life - similar in spirit to older, durability-first professional machines. By reusing existing components in a durable, repairable enclosure, OpenTough extends device lifespans, reduces e-waste, and lowers the barrier to accessing digital tools and the open internet. All design files, documentation, and test results will be published under open hardware licenses, enabling local manufacturing, repair, and further adaptation. OpenTough is vendor-neutral by design and contributes to digital sovereignty through open, reusable hardware components.
This project was funded through the NGI0 Commons Fund, a fund established by NLnet with financial support from the European Commission's Next Generation Internet programme, under the aegis of DG Communications Networks, Content and Technology under grant agreement No 101135429. Additional funding is made available by the Swiss State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation (SERI).
