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Internet of Things (IoT)
Internet of Things (IoT)
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to the billions of devices around the world that are connected to the internet, collecting, receiving or sending data. The term ‘IoT’ is mainly used for devices that traditionally would not be expected to have an internet connection, and that can communicate independently without the need for human interaction. Thanks to advances in technology and the miniaturisation of components, along with a reduction in production costs, the range of devices that can now connect to the internet has increased significantly. This has increased the functionality of everyday devices as they can be used to collect data as input, communicate the data to other devices and also receive instructions from other devices. Such devices may include virtual assistants, security cameras, wearable technology, headphones, energy meters, household appliances, electrical systems and smart cars.
Modern Examples
Modern Examples
Smart Houses
Smart Houses
Home automation systems employ sensors and actuators to complete day-to-day tasks in the home, such as opening and closing doors and cupboards, locking and unlocking doors and controlling energy systems. Smart home technology is also available to make your home more secure by allowing access to your CCTV stream via your smartphone, turn on all your lights if there is an intrusion, create a ‘mockupancy’ scene that gives the impression that your home is occupied, and automatically lock your external doors at nightfall.
Microcontrollers
Microcontrollers
A microcontroller is an integrated circuit. An integrated circuit is a small chip that holds anywhere between hundreds and millions of transistors, resistors and capacitors. A microcontroller incorporates a processor, memory and input/output (I/O) controllers within the one chip. A microcontroller’s processor can vary from 4-bit to 64-bit.
Microcontrollers are used in embedded systems. An embedded system is designed to perform one or two specific processing tasks.
Health Care
Health Care
Assistive technology is any technology that allows an individual or organisation to complete a task that they would not normally be able to complete, or that makes it easier or safer to complete day-to-day activities.
Devices and situations in which assistive technology is used include:
• accessibility aids
• cognitive aids
• personal emergency response systems
• home automation
• mobility aids.
Connections
Connections
Like all computer networks, the IoT system need to be able to communicate with other nodes in the system network. These connections can be wired or wireless. The micro:bit has a USB connection and can communicate with other micro:bits by radio and with other devices using BlueTooth.
In addition to Starlink, SpaceX has recently launched Swarm, a network of small, low-orbit satellites about the size of a hand that provide low-bandwidth connectivity to every point on Earth. This allows IoT devices to function even in the most remote locations.
Skill Builder
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