IoT (Internet of things)

IoT, also known as the internet of things, is a connected network of several components. The main characteristics of IoT include the ability to communicate, connect and transfer data among its different components. The devices can communicate using the internet but can also connect using other mediums. Smart homes with devices such as a coffee machine, lighting, water controls and a security camera interacting with the homeowner’s smartphone can be said to be an example of IoT.

Anyone can use the IoT. It is widely available and generally has reasonable prices that all can afford. IoT is not just about the devices connected. Rather, it is the hardware, software, connectivity and communication.

About the internet of things – History

The thought and concept of connecting devices to share information were always present since it was done for the first time in the 1830s. But ever wondered how the term ‘Internet of Things’ came up?

 In 1999, an entrepreneur — Kevin Ashton — used this phrase in one of his presentations. The phrase stuck and is being used to date. Kevin Ashton was one of the few founders that contributed to the Auto-ID Center at MIT. 

Technologies like radio voice transmissions, Wi-Fi and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition Software, also known as SCADA, used IoT technologies.

The internet of things in today’s world

These days, more IoT devices are connected than the total population on earth. Devices like smartwatches, smart TVs, computers, laptops, and RFID chips that store and input data are examples of IoT enabled devices.

IoT is also used at petrol pumps. For example, sensors present in the storage chambers can indicate the volume of petrol or diesel stored in the storage facility. 

Supermarkets use RFID chips to track and handle their stocks. The barcode installed on the items is recorded, and when a barcode scanner scans, it is deducted from the supermarket database’s master file.

Uses of the internet of things  

Sensor chips – As a result of increasing technology, microscopic scale sensors can be produced. These sensors are small and easily transportable without being damaged. The sensors are installed on items like clothes and shoes.

Communication – The availability of Wi-Fi has made internet connectivity smoother. IoT sensors connected to devices and machines allow the data to be received and sent with ease.

AI, also known as artificial intelligence, uses IoT. It reads data from the devices it is connected with to detect, process, display and respond to stimuli. 

Characteristics of IoT

Connectivity – For systems to work together, many devices have to be connected all together at once; only then will IoT be able to do its job. Hardware, electronics, control systems and sensors are all interconnected to perform efficiently.

Objects – Sensors that can be attached to objects are present in IoT. These are anything that can sense and produce appropriate signals. For instance, motion sensors in walls detect movement and using IoT, they form perfect responses, like dimming or brightening the lights. 

Data – This is like the brain of a human. It stores and provides information in the IoT. 

Communication – Devices are connected so that they can communicate with each other and process and analyse data. Communication is possible at all distances, long or short, like LAN (Local Area Network) and WAN (Wide Area Network). 

Intelligence – Artificial intelligence is mainly to discover all the capabilities of IoT devices that are connected. An AI robot in a manufacturing factory can detect if there are any faults in the machinery present there. AI robots can also perform surgeries and deliver pizzas.

Action – It is the procedure after intelligence. For example, if a fault is detected in a piece of machinery, then the computer generates an alert for the operators to see. 

Ecosystem – An ecosystem is where all the IoT is connected and works together to carry out certain tasks. For example, the sensors in an automated air conditioner detect the temperature of the environment. If the temperature is less than the degree specified, the AC turns on, and then as soon as the temperature reaches it’s optimum, the AC turns off. It is like a loop.

Advantages of IoT  

• The efficiency of workers and employees is improved.
• It is easily affordable and cost-effective. 
• Operations take much less time than manual work.
• Huge businesses find it easier to monitor as well as manage data.
• Accessibility is no issue; any information can be gained, or tasks can be performed, as long as the internet is available.
• Tasks are mostly automated, so it is easier to use. Actions can be performed with simple inputs.
• Data sharing streamlines communications between people/businesses. 

Disadvantages of the IoT  

• Data breaches are a common issue.
• Data like credit and debit card details can be stolen. 
• The main concerns include Trojan horse software, suspicious apps and viruses.
• Connectivity to the internet is essential, so no operations can be carried out in the absence of the internet.
• Humans have become overly dependent on IoT. Although it is a relief to get information at the click of a key, in the long term, it is not beneficial, as humans get used to not doing hard work. They become lazy.
• Although computers can be very reliable, in case of special circumstances where there is a malfunction in the system, they can fail to perform.

Conclusion

IoT, also known as the internet of things, is a series of devices connected with each to perform tasks. Devices like sensors, monitors, and machines have connected networks to sense, process and react. The main characteristics of IoT include the ability to communicate, connect and transfer data. The main causes of data breaches are Trojan horse software, suspicious apps and viruses. Operations take much less time than manual work, and it is easier to monitor as well as manage data for huge businesses.