IoT – What exactly is Internet of Things?

The Internet of Things (IoT) is the concept of connecting any device if it has an on/off switch. IoT is a giant network of connected things and people – all of which collect and share data about the way they are used and the environment around them. Here are some examples of different objects that would be included under the umbrella of IoT:

• Smart fridge that pours the right amount of water in your cup
• Smart microwave that cooks your food for the right length of time
• Self-driving cars with complex sensors
• Fitness devices to track steps and measure heart rates
• Smart balls that record statistics like distance thrown and speed
• Remote tank monitors that send tank levels back to a device

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT COMPONENTS OF IoT?

1. Smart Devices – The piece of equipment that has computing capabilities which collects data or user input to communicate data over the internet to and from the IoT application.
2. IoT Application – This is a collection of services and software that receives data from the various IoT devices. It uses artificial intelligence (AI) technology to analyze data and make decisions. These decisions are then transferred back to the IoT device to respond intelligently to the input.
3. Graphical User Interface – A single IoT device or a fleet of devices can be managed with a graphical user interface. This can be an app on your phone or website.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

These different smart devices contain built-in sensors which are connected to an IoT application, which integrates data from the objects and applies analytics to share valuable information with a graphical user interface designed to address specific needs. These graphical platforms pinpoint what information is useful to detect patterns and possible problems before they occur. It also helps you make smart decisions based on real-time information which can help the user save time and money in the end.

HOW DOES THIS APPLY TO BUSINESSES?

 IoT is so much more than self-driving cars and smart fridges. In B2B, many companies are utilizing this technology to increase the efficiency of daily processes. Amazon, for example, is driving innovation using internet-connected robots to track, locate, sort, and move products. Farmers may use a moisture sensor in the ground that could activate the irrigation system when levels fall to a certain point. A propane business could use Remote Tank Monitors that automatically triggers a software to create an order when the tank level passes below a set threshold. Currently, many businesses still focus on the simpler uses of IoT such as sending status alerts or tracking data. Concerns over lack of security, cost, and IoT standards are still holding businesses back from completely utilizing this technology to streamline operations.

WHY DOES IoT MATTER?

 It provides people and businesses better insight into and control over objects and environments. In doing so, they are more connected to the world around them and can do higher-level, more meaningful work.

New technologies can be scary, and we are often hesitant to change and embrace new workflows and tools. However, IoT is already in your life and a powerful tool that can enhance many of the things you may be doing currently. Advantage Route Systems is committed to being your partner in technology and creating tools that utilize the latest technological advances, so you can focus on the most important aspects of your business.