The (IoT) Internet of Things is the latest hot topic of discussion everywhere you go. In simple terms it is the inter-networking between devices and objects which we use every day.These devices or objects range from electronic gadgets like a refrigerator to an industrial machine. They will share data and function accordingly and will be able to use technology and share information and complete various tasks without human intervention.
The Internet of Things will connect our cars, our homes, objects and our appliances with the internet and enable these devices to exchange information through the internet. The IoT is all set to make major changes in our lifestyles. Pretty soon you will have a garbage can in your home which shall send a message to the relevant authorities when it becomes full of garbage. The IoT makes use of sensors and devices which create; share and manage data. But what is it that makes up this network? Let’s find out.
The 3 major components of IoT
- The Things like our appliances
- The Internet network which will connect the things
- The computer systems which ensure flow of data between things/gadgets/appliances
Using these three components devices inter-communicate with each other via internet and plan their functioning as per the analysis of the information received. To give a fine example in the regard, just imagine an air conditioner which is able to adjust its thermostat setting based on the weather forecasts received by it through the internet.
The concept of IoT is not merely confined to inter-device communication, but also helps humans to remotely control gadgets and devices via internet. Controlling home security and securing door locks remotely is possible with IoT.
What shall be the future of IoT?
- It is estimated that 50 billion device will be connected with IoT by 2020.
- Remote patient monitoring will be possible with IoT and the market will double by 2016.
- Employing IoT in the auto industry will result in saving US$ 100 billion annually due to accidents.
- The UK govt. has funded 45 million pound for research and development of IoT.
How will IoT technology benefit Home users and the Industry?
- New and improved transportation systems. Vehicles which choose their routes according to the current traffic data.
- Smart devices like your refrigerator which sends you an alert if it is low on milk. So that you can buy it on your way back home.
- Better health care facilities which ensuring patient monitoring and also the power to control devices like the pacemaker.
- Sensors on your personal devices which alert users if unused or misused.
- An Industrial machine which alerts the maintenance staff when it needs to be serviced.
- Easy shopping experience where as soon as you pick up a can of coke from the shelf of a store, the sensors will activate and charge its amount your account automatically.
The Internet of things is a new technology which is still in its early days but is developing at a rapid pace. The only worry for IoT technology developers is that this technology generates a lot of data which needs to be stored and exchanged. But like as it usually happens with new technology, there will be solutions for these small problems. So prepare yourself to embrace and adapt this technology.