By Editorial Team 
Though, internet of things has gained a lot of prominence in recent times, it is not really a new technology. It has been dreamed, developed, and experimented with for decades before it has taken the form we see today. The concept of IoT involves a smart interconnectivity between physical objects, appliances, and vehicles. It is an effective combination of various technologies like software, sensors, and network connectivity that make devices capable of collecting and sharing data.
IoT devices can be anything starting from smart bulbs at home, RFID-enabled clothing, to heavy machinery in the industries. But, do you know what are the various factors that determine how IoT works? In this blog, let us explore IoT operations and factors that enable the Internet of Things.
What Is IoT?
The Internet of Things is not a solitary system but a system consisting of multiple parts. These might include mechanical systems, computers, machines, and more that transmit data automatically without interaction with computers or humans. It is basically an assembly of objects in a shared system to ensure seamless connectivity. These shared systems can then be further grouped to generate a much larger system. IoT is already making a huge impact across numerous industries like transportation, healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, etc.
Now, let us find out the main factors that determine how IoT works.
Top Factors That Make IoT Work
There are many cornerstones that contribute toward making an IoT structure operational-
Collection of Data-
From the outset, data collection devices might look complex, but in reality, they are fairly simple. Essentially, data collection devices include smartphones, sensors, GPS trackers, and other kinds of devices that can not only gather data but can also transfer it to a dedicated IoT device for processing. This comprises the first step of any IoT infrastructure, i.e., data collection.
Cloud Connectivity-
Once the data has been collected, the IoT systems store it in the cloud system. The decision to select cloud technologies would primarily depend on your data requirements and overall objectives of your brand. There are various means to achieve this which can be Wi-Fi, bluetooth, or any kind of network connectivity. The second step in IoT working, i.e., uploading of data is achieved through this cloud connectivity.
Data Processing-
By this step, the data has been successfully captured and shared on the cloud. But, you need a processor that can process this data and make it suitable for human reading. Users can use a tool that can be simple or complex. In offices or in home automation, where there is a smaller network, the data can be processed via smartphone or a laptop computer. However, in a larger ecosystem, a tool such as CMMS like Upkeep is a top example of how a quality data processor works.
User-friendly Interface-
In the end, humans should be able to get an output in easy-to-understand format. So, once the data is processed, it must be presented in a format that is user-friendly. For example, in a small IoT ecosystem like a smartphone or smartwatch operating together, the information can be given to the user in the form of a popup notification. It can be presented in the form of a reminder that informs users to drink more water and check their blood pressure.
In industrial applications, large machines such as Upkeep take care of data processing and presentation. In corporate for example, the data is provided to humans in the form of easy-to-read reports.
In the next section, let us finally figure out how IoT works and the role the four key technologies play.
Working of IoT
The core concept of IoT involves establishing a connection among the devices courtesy of numerous technologies like cellular network, wireless fidelity, and bluetooth. This interconnection is achieved to make sure that devices can connect with one another and share information. The data collected and shared in the IoT system can be used to track performance, devices, and control behavior of humans.
The entire operation of IoT is ensured through four key technologies-
Sensors- First of all, we need a device that can collect data in an IoT environment, i.e., from a physical world. Sensors in IoT systems can detect and measure numerous physical properties such as light, humidity, sound, temperature, and motion.
Network- Once sensors capture the data, we then need a technology that can transmit the data. This is achieved through a network, which connects the sensors to the internet or the IoT environment. The network can either be a wired network or a wireless network.
Software- IoT connects various tools and software that can gather, store, and analyze the physical information that IoT sensors collect. Software processes the data and then gives commands to the devices to respond to the environment and input.
Actuators- Since, we need a sensor to take input from the physical world, we also need an actuator to generate an output in the physical world. Actuators in IoT can perform an action as per the collected information and predetermined user settings. For example, sliding doors in offices and homes detect an approaching person through light sensors and use actuators to open the door.
Real-life Example of How IoT Works in Industries: IoT in Farming
Courtesy of the introduction of IoT in agriculture, farmers are now better equipped to grow quality crops more effectively. It has not only allowed farmers to reduce their investment, but has also allowed them to streamline their crop management. A lot of IoT-based techniques are employed in farms that generate significant produce. IoT-enabled farms have devices that provide farmers all the relevant crops-related data. The data can be anything related to aspects such as moisture balance, water levels, livestock wellness, pesticide levels, and soil texture.
Other than that, IoT can also be used to control weather-related data, control fences, collect data on livestock condition, ensure correct functioning of the vehicle, and monitor electrical supply. IoT-related data helps farmers better assess the health of plants and livestock. Even if a farmer is away from the farm, he can receive real-time updates through a smartphone. Thus, during incidents, IoT enables farmers to take swift action and minimize wastage of crops and livestock.
Conclusion
IoT has revolutionized several industries like retail, healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, transportation, etc. The blog focuses on what is IoT, how IoT works, factors involved in its operation, and a real-life example that explains its working. It is a growing field with many exciting projects and developments on the horizon. So, for more IoT-related information, be sure to check our website.
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