What is the Internet of Things?
There’s a lot of noise right now about the Internet of Things (or IoT) and its impact on everything from the way we travel and shop to the way manufacturers keep track of inventory. But what is the Internet of Things? How does it work? And is it really that important?
What is the Internet of Things?
In short, this technology connects any device to the web and many other devices. In simple terms, this is a complex network of things connected to each other. This network collects and shares data and information.
Devices include a number of objects, such as smart microwaves, autonomous cars, wearable devices, and complex sensors, to name a few.
How does it work?
Devices with embedded sensors connect to IoT platforms that integrate information and data from a number of commonly used devices. Powerful analytics are then used to share actionable information to address specific needs.
IoT platforms can identify useful information and information that can be ignored. The information can then be used to identify patterns, provide suggestions, and flag problems before they occur.
For example, if you work in a car manufacturing business, you may need to find out about optional and important parts.
Based on the information and analytics offered, you can make processes much more efficient. Furthermore, smart systems and objects can also help you automate some tasks, especially when these tasks are mundane, repetitive, and time-consuming in nature. Let’s take a look at some real life examples.
Use of IoT in your own residence
Suppose you get up at 7 am to go to your office. Like most people, you can set your alarm to wake you up at the right time. This works until something bad happens. For example, your train may be cancelled. Now you have another problem. You have to drive to work but you’re already late. To make matters worse, the rain begins to fall.
Now, if you use an IoT alarm clock, it will automatically rest based on these factors. The watch will calculate the distance you need to travel and suggest an alternative route.
IoT in your car
Once you wake up to the alarm, you can drive to work. You won’t just be heading to the garage. However, what would you do if you have an emergency? If you have a connected car, your vehicle will share information with other people in the vehicle. Another component will collect data from the sensors and pass the information to the manufacturer’s platform. Also, the manufacturer can make use of the vehicle data to provide you with the information that you can use to repair the car by sending the information to the nearest dealer.
In a nutshell, this is your introduction to the Internet of Things and how it can help make your life easier. Hopefully, you will be able to take full advantage of this technology in the future.
