By DeVry University
May 13, 2023
7 min read
May 13, 2023
7 min read
The Internet of Things (IoT) is an interconnected network of physical objects that "speak" to one another using sensors and software. These devices connect over the internet and can be used to transmit data, perform data analysis and control one another remotely.
Let’s explore some common questions related to IoT:
This is the core pillar of the IoT. It allows for holistic integration between smart devices and allows the user to control them from one touchpoint.
With an IoT-enabled thermostat, for instance, you can check its status directly from your phone without being in the same room. Interconnectivity is also what allows your fitness trackers, smart appliances, and voice assistants to work and share data seamlessly with each other.
Communication and interconnectivity go hand-in-hand when it comes to IoT. As interconnectivity is about data sharing, communication takes things a step further by allowing devices to speak to and control one another.
Take for instance our smart device example from earlier. With these devices, you can enable voice control to do a variety of tasks, from adding items to your online lists and shopping carts, to setting reminders on your phone or calendars, to turning on lights and much more, all with one or two simple commands.
At the business level, this inter-device communication helps companies to stay ahead of potential problems. Communication between devices can tell users if a piece of equipment requires maintenance before it breaks, allowing the company to service the equipment before it interrupts workflow. These devices can often indicate the exact part of the equipment that is experiencing issues, which can reduce the amount of time a technician has to spend on site finding and fixing the problem.
Manufacturing
Companies can reduce operating costs and improve asset performance management with the use of sensors that detect an impending equipment failure or measure, in real time, when production output is diminished.
Automotive
Through the use of information-gathering IoT applications, manufacturers and suppliers can keep cars running and their owners informed and can optimize the performance of their production lines and supply chains.
Retail
IoT applications allow retailers to manage inventory, optimize supply chain management, improve customer experience and reduce operational costs.
Transportation and logistics
IoT sensor data can allow fleets of trucks, trains or ships carrying inventory to be rerouted based on changes in weather or driver availability. Inventory can be monitored with sensors that use RFID technology for shipment tracking and to keep an eye on temperatures.
Public sector
Government-owned utilities can use IoT applications to notify users of mass power outages or interruptions in water or power services. Data collected can enable them to deploy resources more efficiently in their efforts to recover from outages faster.
Healthcare
IoT can be extremely useful to healthcare staff when it comes to keeping track of assets. Sensor-fitted items such as wheelchairs can be used to create a trackable inventory that healthcare staff can quickly locate when they need them. But sensors aren’t the only way IoT can be applied to the healthcare sector. IoT can be used in medical device manufacturing, continuous patient monitoring via wearables and in-home care.
While home IoT can help people in a variety of ways in their own homes, perhaps the greatest demonstration of its power is through industrial Internet of Things applications.
Three ways that industrial IoT helps companies improve their efficiency and gain greater insight into their processes are:
Diagnostics
As previously mentioned, IoT can help companies save time and money by preemptively communicating when there is a problem with their equipment and needs repair. This can save a company time and money, especially when it comes to expensive industrial machines.
Safety
The Internet of Things doesn't just apply to machines. It can also help people make smarter and safer decisions. Some manufacturers have taken to using IoT-enabled devices to monitor personal protective equipment (PPE) for their workers. By measuring the data provided, companies can ensure that PPE is being worn properly and effectively.
Smart power grids
Some utility companies have installed smart sensors within their power grids. These devices can both alert users of outages and service interruptions immediately, as well as point repair crews to the issue faster than without the technology.
Software
To build a connected product, you need a software programmer who can code for the specific applications of the device. These people help to ensure that the device can communicate with other things on the network, and that the IoT capabilities don't get in the way of the device’s primary function.
Networking
Devices have to be set up and connected in a way that allows them to speak to one another. Much like setting up a computer network, IoT networking requires some particular skills.
Hardware
At the end of the day, the Internet of Things is built from hardware. The industry needs people who can perform repairs on these devices, particularly at the industrial level.
If you can see yourself building a career around the Internet of Things, we can help you develop many of the skills you need to start turning your passion into a profession. Our 100% online Undergraduate Certificate in the Internet of Things (IoT) can help you learn how to create smart networks and implement, configure and manage IoT systems with no previous experience required. Coursework in this program can also help you prepare to pursue industry-recognized certifications like CompTIA Cloud + and CompTIA IT Fundamentals. Classes start every 8 weeks.
1Reference in this publication to any specific commercial product, process or service, or the use of any trade, firm or corporation name is for general information purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement, recommendation or certification of any kind by DeVry University. Persons using such products and services assume responsibility for their use in accordance with the provider’s current terms and conditions.
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