WHAT IS THE INTERNET OF THINGS?
The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a network of connected objects or devices. IoT technologies make it possible to collect, transfer, and exchange relevant data between those devices in real time without human touch.
Combined with machine learning and AI, the Internet of Things enables devices to analyse and act on the collected information, facilitating everyday tasks for people and boosting efficiency for businesses.
HOW DO IOT TECHNOLOGIES WORK?
The word 'things' in IoT refers to various physical objects or devices, from everyday household gadgets to industrial tools and machines. These things are connected to the internet to collect and share data with other devices or users. Let’s look at how IoT works in more detail.
Gathering
IoT devices are equipped with various embedded solutions and technologies, such as sensors, GPS modules, cameras, and others. These technologies help to collect data on device usage and different surrounding conditions. For example, the smartwatch you’re using may have a variety of sensors that measure different parameters, such as your heart rate, movement, temperature, and more.
Transmitting
Before a user can see the collected data displayed in a user interface, that data needs to be transmitted to a server and processed. To send it, an IoT device needs a communication module that uses either wireless communication technologies, e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, GSM, LTE, and others, or wired, such as Ethernet, CAN, or fibre optics.
Processing
When data is received in the server or cloud storage, it can be processed – for example, classified, sorted, or calculated. As a result, a large amount of raw data turns into useful, meaningful information.
In addition, the server can have an integrated IoT application that uses machine learning and artificial intelligence to analyse the received data and then make decisions without human intervention. These decisions are then transmitted back to the IoT device, allowing it to respond intelligently to a situation.
Visualising
Once the data is processed, it can be accessed in a graphical user interface. It can be a mobile app, a computer program, or a web application where the information is visualised and presented in a user-friendly manner. The user can also manage and control their IoT devices there.
Gathering
IoT devices are equipped with various embedded solutions and technologies, such as sensors, GPS modules, cameras, and others. These technologies help to collect data on device usage and different surrounding conditions. For example, the smartwatch you’re using may have a variety of sensors that measure different parameters, such as your heart rate, movement, temperature, and more.
Transmitting
Before a user can see the collected data displayed in a user interface, that data needs to be transmitted to a server and processed. To send it, an IoT device needs a communication module that uses either wireless communication technologies, e.g., Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, GSM, LTE, and others, or wired, such as Ethernet, CAN, or fibre optics.
Processing
When data is received in the server or cloud storage, it can be processed – for example, classified, sorted, or calculated. As a result, a large amount of raw data turns into useful, meaningful information.
In addition, the server can have an integrated IoT application that uses machine learning and artificial intelligence to analyse the received data and then make decisions without human intervention. These decisions are then transmitted back to the IoT device, allowing it to respond intelligently to a situation.
Visualising
Once the data is processed, it can be accessed in a graphical user interface. It can be a mobile app, a computer program, or a web application where the information is visualised and presented in a user-friendly manner. The user can also manage and control their IoT devices there.
HOW TELTONIKA STARTED IN IOT
The journey of Teltonika into the world of IoT started back in the 90s when RFID (radio-frequency identification) technologies were widely used to capture and record data. As chips and devices got smaller and the world started transitioning to wireless communication technologies, Teltonika embarked on the path to becoming a leader in producing unique IoT solutions.
Early 2000s
Teltonika launched a successful Guard GSM project. The purpose of this IoT device was to control external sensors and retrieve data from them to make corresponding security actions.
Then, the first GPS tracking device TBOXN12GPS came to light, marking the beginning of Teltonika’s telematics business niche.
2007
We produced Teltonika’s first GSM module for IoT devices – TM2. It was not only intended for telemetry equipment but also worked as an external 2G modem.
2009
Teltonika entered the personal and asset tracking business niche by introducing the GH3000 device. Its function was to quickly transmit the user’s location and call for help in an emergency.
2012
To give even more value to our clients, we launched the FOTA configuration tool, providing sophisticated remote device management.
IOT APPLICATIONS IN FOUR BUSINESS NICHES
ENABLING IOT WITH CONNECTIVITY
Connectivity is the essence of machine-to-machine communication, making IoT a holistic network of connections. Without it, all devices are isolated. It means that data cannot be sent or received, and networking solutions do not function.
Connectivity facilitates the fundamentals of Industry 4.0 and automation, from predictive and remote management to data aggregation and analysis – and all the efficiency that comes with them. This is paramount to a wide range of industries, including clean energy, smart cities, and industrial manufacturing.
Relying on connectivity, the Internet of Things becomes the infrastructure the future of humanity is built upon.
Learn how Teltonika’s networking solutions play a vital role in such tasks as determining water quality and drinkability, transforming agriculture, and even monitoring CERN’s Large Hadron Collider.
