The Internet of Things (IoT) is the connection of millions of smart devices and sensors connected to the Internet. These connected devices and sensors collect and share data for use and evaluation by many organizations. These organizations include businesses, cities, governments, hospitals and individuals. The IoT has been possible, in part, due to the advent of cheap processors and wireless networks. Previously inanimate objects such as doorknobs or light bulbs can now be equipped with an intelligent sensor that can collect and transfer data to a network.

Researchers estimate that over 3 million new devices are connected to the Internet each month. Researchers also estimate that in the next four years, there are going to be over 30 billion connected devices worldwide.

Perhaps a third of connected devices will be computers, smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs. The remaining two-thirds will be other kinds of “things”: sensors, actuators, and newly invented intelligent devices that monitor, control, analyze, and optimize our world.

Some examples of intelligent connected sensors are: smart doorbells, garage doors, thermostats, sports wearables, pacemakers, traffic lights, parking spots, and many others. The limit of different objects that could become intelligent sensors is limited only by our imagination.

The image is of cell phones, computer and other devices with lines representing connectivity. It contains the letters IOT in the center of the devices.

How are IoT Devices Connected to the Network?

A sensor needs to be connected to a network so that the gathered data can be stored and shared. This requires either a wired Ethernet connection or a wireless connection to a controller. Controllers are responsible for collecting data from sensors and providing network or Internet connectivity. Controllers may have the ability to make immediate decisions, or they may send data to a more powerful computer for analysis. This more powerful computer might be in the same LAN as the controller or might only be accessible through an Internet connection.

Sensors often work together with a device called an actuator. Actuators take electrical input and transform the input into physical action. As an example, if a sensor detects excess heat in a room, the sensor sends the temperature reading to the microcontroller. The microcontroller can send the data to an actuator which would then turn on the air conditioner.

The majority of new devices such as fitness wearables, implanted pacemakers, air meters in a mine shaft, and water meters in a farm field all require wireless connectivity. Because many sensors are “out in the field” and are powered by batteries or solar panels, consideration must be given to power consumption. Low-powered connection options must be used to optimize and extend the availability of the sensor.