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Introduction To The Internet of Things

The document provides an introduction to Internet of Things (IoT). It defines IoT as physical objects with embedded sensors that can collect and transfer data by communicating over a network. It discusses that computers are not considered IoT devices as they are general purpose, while IoT devices are designed specifically to execute functions. It also outlines some common issues with IoT including privacy, security and safety risks if devices are not properly secured from hackers. Finally, it describes the basic structure of an IoT device including sensors to collect data, processors to analyze it, gateways to connect to networks and applications to utilize the information.

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Nota Belz
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161 views

Introduction To The Internet of Things

The document provides an introduction to Internet of Things (IoT). It defines IoT as physical objects with embedded sensors that can collect and transfer data by communicating over a network. It discusses that computers are not considered IoT devices as they are general purpose, while IoT devices are designed specifically to execute functions. It also outlines some common issues with IoT including privacy, security and safety risks if devices are not properly secured from hackers. Finally, it describes the basic structure of an IoT device including sensors to collect data, processors to analyze it, gateways to connect to networks and applications to utilize the information.

Uploaded by

Nota Belz
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Introduction to the Internet of Things (IoT)

Internet of Things (IoT): What it Means


Almost everyone nowadays uses the internet in order to connect with other people around the
world. This module offers a meaningful discussion about the internet of things and how it affects
the society we are currently living in. Let us begin this module by covering the term "Internet of
Things" known as IoT, including the ideas that evolve in it. Do not forget the answer at the end
of the discussion.
 

Internet of Things
The term "Internet of Things" refers to any physical objects and devices that are used to collect
and transfer data by communicating with other things through a network.

It is defined by Britannica Encyclopedia as "a vast network of physical objects with embedded
microchips, sensors, and communications capabilities that link people, machines, and entire
systems through the Internet." These physical objects could be any device or objects that we
are already using or it could also be any "thing" that we are yet to innovate.
 
Computer: Not an IoT Device
According to Prof. Ian Harris, the speaker for the Coursera online course "An Introduction to
Programming the Internet of Things (IOT) Specialization," computers such as laptops, desktops,
and even servers are not considered as an IoT device. He explained that computers are used
for general purposes such as to simultaneously run different programs, while IoT devices are
made to process codes in order to execute their special function. He also said that the hardware
and software of an IoT device are usually designed together compared to those of other
computing devices.

Read more about the internet of things and characteristics by visiting the link below:

https://www.c-sharpcorner.com/uploadfile/f88748/internet-of-things-iot-an-introduction/

Common Issues Associated with the Use of IoT Devices


Now that you have learned the meaning behind the term "Internet of Things," it is time for you to
realize the common issues associated with the use of IoT devices. Too much exposure to
technology and networks can cause some added risks to your privacy and security. How secure
are your IoT devices against cyber hackers? Complete this module for you to have an answer to
these questions.
 

Privacy, Security, And Safety Issues


More and more people are getting drawn into the use of smart gadgets inside their homes. This
gives cyber hackers an opportunity to steal information from many households and probably use the
devices for an undesirable purpose. Watch the video in the link below to know more about the
importance of keeping your IoT devices secured and to understand how you can protect your
devices against cyber hackers.

Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pGtnC1jKpMg

Basic IoT Structure


An IoT device may look simple, but it is actually composed of a more complex and strategically
designed hardware and software. Programmers and innovators carefully build its internal and
external structure in order to fit the needs of the users.

According to C-Sharp Corner, an online community of software developers and IT professionals,


there are four things that shape the IoT system: sensors, processors, gateways, applications.
These things play an integral role in order to build an IoT device and execute its special
function.

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 Sensors
These are the tools used to measure or detect stimuli such as heat, light, motion,
moisture, pressure. The data collected will then be converted into electrical signals in
order to be processed in the real world. Examples of sensors are touch sensor, color
sensor, LDR or light sensor, and heartbeat sensor.

 Processors
Processors are the ones which process the data collected by the sensors. Its main
purpose is to take the necessary data and provide "intelligence" to them. Some
examples of processors are microcontrollers and embedded hardware devices.

According to Garner's senior research director Bill Ray, the processor stands as "the
heart of a semiconductor." “It does the mathematics. It runs the program," he said.

 Gateways
Gateways serve as the connection between the processed data to its desired location. It
helps bridge the communication gap between the physical device, sensors, and the
cloud.

"It provides network connectivity to the data. Network connectivity is essential for any IoT
system to communicate. LAN, WAN, PAN, etc are examples of network gateways,"
according to C-Sharp Corner.

 Applications
The last part of an IoT system is the application. Applications are used in order to ensure
proper utilization of the data collected. These are the ones controlled by the users. Some
examples of applications are product flow monitoring, inventory management, and home
automation apps.

Building an IoT Device


If you want to start building an IoT device, you can now actually order a project starter kit online.
It contains all of the most common materials you need for your DIY project. Here are some of
the equipment included in the kit:

 Development board ⏤ This is considered as the "core" of your IoT device. Basic
development board usually contains a microcontroller which you'll be needing to process the
data collected by your sensors.
 USB cable ⏤ You need this in order to connect your computer to the development
board and program the microcontroller.
 Breadboard ⏤ Breadboards are used to test your project prior to doing the permanent
wiring. It is used for prototyping as it contains a bunch of tiny holes where you can test
electronic circuits.
 Sensors ⏤ Sensors are used to measure and detect stimuli from the surroundings. You
need to choose a sensor that can collect the necessary data that you need. For instance, you
may use an optical sensor if you want to create a hand sanitizer that automatically releases a
certain amount of product when someone places their hand on its opening.Jumper wires ⏤
Jumper wires are basically wires that have a pin at each end. These points allow them to be
tested in a breadboard without the need of soldering or permanently connecting them to
different devices. 

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