introduction to internet of things (IoT)

The Internet of things is the inter-networking of physical devices (like vehicles, buildings, and other items) embedded with electronics, software, sensors, actuators, and network connectivity  that enable these objects to collect and exchange data.

Some also use the term industrial internet interchangeably with IoT. This refers primarily to commercial applications of IoT technology in the world of manufacturing. The Internet of Things is not limited to industrial applications, however.

The Internet of things allows objects to be sensed or controlled remotely across existing network infrastructure, creating opportunities for more direct integration of the physical world into computer-based systems, and resulting in improved efficiency, accuracy and economic benefit in addition to reduced human intervention.

That number is expected to reach anywhere from 25 to 50 billion by 2020. Mind blowing!

There are several different components that make Internet of things work:  

1. Sensors: Devices used to transmit electronic data from a physical entity or event
2. Actuators: Mechanisms that affect the physical environment
3. Virtual objects: Wallets, books, electronic tickets
4. People: Individuals that control the environment through electronic or mobile applications
5. Services: Systems that build things, process data, or run operations based on the data obtained by sensors
6. Platforms:  Middle ware used to connect the various components of the IoT
7. Networks: A combination of wireless or wired technologies, protocols and standards that provide connectivity and connect all components of the IoT
  

The Internet of Things has transformed the physical world into an information system of its own. Sensors and actuators are implanted into various physical objects -- from humans, hardware to highways -- and connect through wireless and wired networks using the Internet. The networks then produce data that are transmitted into computers for the purpose of analysis followed by an action or service based on standards set during programming. Many IoT technologies today work without human intervention, allowing devices to communicate amongst each other and change processes that transform the way we live today.

Continue.. Next blog.