UNIT I: Introduction to IoT

Internet of Things (IoT) is the networking of physical objects that contain electronics
embedded within their architecture in order to communicate and sense interactions amongst
each other or with respect to the external environment. In the upcoming years, IoT-based
technology will offer advanced levels of services and practically change the way people lead
their daily lives. Advancements in medicine, power, gene therapies, agriculture, smart cities,
and smart homes are just a very few of the categorical examples where IoT is strongly
established.
Over 9 billion ‘Things’ (physical objects) are currently connected to the Internet, as of now.
In the near future, this number is expected to rise to a whopping 20 billion.

Definition of IoT
The definition of IoT can be explained as follows: Internet of Things means a network of
physical things (objects) sending, receiving, or communicating information using the Internet
or other communication technologies and network just as the computers, tablets and mobiles
do, and thus enabling the monitoring, coordinating or controlling process across the Internet
or another data network.
Another source, defines the term IoT as follows: Internet of Things is the network of physical
objects or ‘things’ embedded with electronics, software, sensors and connectivity to enable it
to achieve greater value and service by exchanging data with the manufacturer, operator
and/or other connected devices. Each thing is uniquely identifiable through its embedded
computing system but is able to interoperate within the existing Internet infrastructure.

Figure 1: Use of Internet of Things concept for streetlights in a city

Ex: Streetlights in a city can be made to function like living entities through sensing and
computing using tiny embedded devices that communicate and interact with a central control-
and-command station through the Internet. Assume that each light in a group of 32
streetlights comprises a sensing, computing and communication circuit. Each group connects
to a group-controller (or coordinator) through Bluetooth or ZigBee. Each controller further
connects to the central command-and-control station through the Internet. The station
receives information about each streetlight in each group in the city at periodic intervals. The
information received is related to the functioning of the 32 lights, the faulty lights, about the

1
presence or absence of traffic in group vicinity, and about the ambient conditions, whether
cloudy, dark or normal daylight.

There are four main components used in IoT:

1. Low-power embedded systems: Less battery consumption, high performance are the
factors that play a significant role during the design of electronic systems.
2. Cloud computing: Data collected through IoT devices is massive and this data has to be
stored on a reliable storage server. This is where cloud computing comes into play. The
data is processed and learned, giving more room for us to discover where things like
electrical faults/errors are within the system.
3. Availability of big data: We know that IoT relies heavily on sensors, especially in real-
time. As these electronic devices spread throughout every field, their usage is going to
trigger a massive change of big data.
4. Networking connection: In order to communicate, internet connectivity is a must where
each physical object is represented by an IP address. However, there are only a limited
number of addresses available according to the IP naming. Due to the growing number of
devices, this naming system will not be supported any more anymore. Therefore,
researchers are looking for another alternative naming system to represent each physical
object.
Characteristics of IoT:
• Massively scalable and efficient
• IP-based addressing will no longer be suitable in the upcoming future.
• Plenty of physical objects that do not use IP (ex. sensors), so IoT is made possible.
• Devices should consume less power. So, When device not in use, they should be
automatically programmed to sleep.
• A device that is connected to another device right now, may not be connected in another
instant of time. (ex. Printer)
• Intermittent connectivity – IoT devices aren’t always connected. In order to save
bandwidth and battery consumption, devices will be powered off periodically when not
in use. Otherwise, connections might turn unreliable and thus prove to be inefficient.
As a quick note, IoT incorporates trillions of sensors, billions of smart systems, and
millions of applications.
IoT Enablers:
• RFIDs: uses radio waves in order to electronically track the tags attached to each
physical object.
• Sensors: devices that are able to detect changes in an environment (ex: motion
detectors).
• Nanotechnology: as the name suggests, these are extremely small devices with
dimensions usually less than a hundred nanometers.
• Smart networks: mesh topology
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlhmzVL5bm8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6mBO2vqLv38

2
Architectural Overview
An IoT system has multiple levels and equations for IoT, Cloud server and cloud serives are
given below
i. Physical Object + Controller, Sensor and Actuators + Internet = Internet of Things
ii. Gather + Enrich + Stream + Manage + Acquire + Organise and Analyse = Internet of
Things with connectivity to data center, enterprose or cloud server
iii. Gather + Consolidate + Connect + Collect + Assemble + Manage and Analyse = Internet
of Things with connectivity to cloud services
These levels are also known as tiers. A reference model can be used to show building blocks,
continuous connections and integration. An example is CISCO’s presentation of a reference
model comprising seven levels (Figure 2).

Figure 2: An IoT reference model suggested by CISCO that gives a general IoT system
An IoT architecture has the following features:
1. The architecture helps as a reference in applications of IoT in services and business
processes.
2. A set of sensors, gather the data and perform necessary data analysis then transform
directly to a communication manager as per device application framework (structure/layout).
3. A set of sensor circuits is connected to a gateway having separate data capturing,
gathering, computing and communication capabilities. The gateway receives the data in one
form at one end and sends it in another form to the other end.
4. The communication-management subsystem consists of protocol handlers, message routers
and message cache.
5. This management subsystem has functionalities for device identity database, device
identity management and access management.
6. Data centre of the application server or enterprise server acquire the data form the device
management.

3
7. Organisation and analysis system enable the services, business processes, enterprise
integration and complex processes.

Figure 3: Oracle’s IoT architecture of Internet of Things with connectivity to data center,
enterprose or cloud server
https://www.hiotron.com/iot-architecture-layers/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KeaeuUcw02Q

Design principles and needed capabilities

To creating architectures or reference models for IoT and M2M, three methods are available.
Two of them are from larger European 7th Framework Program research projects, SENSEI
(2013) and IoT-A (2013), the third is ETSI M2M TC (2013).
(ETSI - European Telecommunications Standards Institute, TC - Technical Committee)
1. SENSEI (2013) - “Real World integration in a future Internet”
Key features include
i. a real world services interface and the integration of many wireless sensor and actuator
network deployments into a common services infrastructure on a global scale.
ii. The architecture depends on the separation of resources providing sensing/actuation from
the actual devices.

2. ETSI M2M TC (2013)

i. The ETSI - telecommunications industry, focused on defining a common service for
supporting various M2M applications.

4
Design Principles and Needed Capabilities

Designing Internet of Things (IoT) systems requires careful consideration of various principles and
capabilities to ensure successful implementation and operation. Here are some important design
principles and needed capabilities for IoT:

1. Interoperability: IoT devices and systems should be designed to work seamlessly with each
other, regardless of the manufacturer or technology used. Standardized communication
protocols, data formats, and interfaces enable interoperability.

2. Scalability: IoT systems should be able to handle a growing number of connected devices and
data flows without a significant decrease in performance. Scalability ensures that the system
can adapt to increasing demands over time.

3. Security: Security is paramount in IoT design. Devices must be protected against

unauthorized access, data breaches, and tampering. Strong encryption, secure
authentication, and regular security updates are essential.

4. Reliability: IoT systems often play critical roles in various applications, such as healthcare and
industrial automation. High reliability is necessary to ensure uninterrupted and safe
operation.

5. Low Power Consumption: Many IoT devices are battery-powered, and minimizing power
consumption extends the device's lifespan and reduces maintenance requirements. Energy-
efficient components and optimized communication protocols are essential for low power
consumption.

6. Data Privacy: IoT devices collect vast amounts of data, and it's crucial to handle this data
responsibly. User consent, anonymization, and data minimization principles should be
followed to protect users' privacy.

7. Data Analytics and Real-time Processing: IoT generates massive amounts of data, and
extracting valuable insights requires robust data analytics and real-time processing
capabilities. Cloud-based analytics and edge computing can be used to process data
efficiently.

8. Latency: Some IoT applications, like autonomous vehicles and industrial control systems,
require low latency for real-time decision-making. Minimizing latency in data transmission
and processing is critical for these applications.

9. User Experience: Designing IoT interfaces with a user-centric approach enhances user
adoption and satisfaction. Simplicity, intuitiveness, and responsiveness are crucial for a
positive user experience.

10. Redundancy and Failover: Critical IoT applications may require redundant systems and
failover mechanisms to maintain continuous operation in case of device or network failures.

11. Device Management and Updates: IoT devices should be remotely manageable, allowing
firmware updates and configuration changes to be performed efficiently and securely.

12. Energy Harvesting: In certain scenarios, energy harvesting techniques (e.g., solar, kinetic) can
be employed to power IoT devices, reducing reliance on batteries and extending their
operational life.
13. Environmental Adaptability: IoT devices can operate in diverse environments, from extreme
temperatures to challenging physical conditions. Ensuring environmental adaptability
enhances the device's durability and reliability.

14. Compliance with Regulations: IoT systems should comply with relevant laws and regulations
concerning data privacy, security, and safety in the regions where they are deployed.
Networking In IoT:

Networking in the Internet of Things (IoT) is a fundamental aspect that enables devices to
communicate and share data with each other and with centralized systems. Here are the
basics of networking in IoT:
1. IoT Devices: These are the physical devices, sensors, or actuators that collect and
transmit data. IoT devices can range from simple sensors (e.g., temperature, humidity)
to complex devices (e.g., smart appliances, industrial machines).
2. Connectivity Protocols: IoT devices use various connectivity protocols to
communicate. Some of the commonly used protocols include:
• Wi-Fi: Provides high-speed, local area network connectivity within a limited
range.
• Bluetooth: Suitable for short-range communication between devices (e.g.,
smartphone and smartwatch).
• Zigbee: A low-power, low-data-rate protocol ideal for home automation and
industrial applications.
• Z-Wave: Another low-power wireless protocol used in smart home devices.
• Cellular (3G, 4G, 5G): Enables IoT devices to connect over long distances
using mobile networks.
• LoRaWAN: A long-range, low-power protocol suitable for IoT devices in
wide-area networks.
• NB-IoT and LTE-M: Cellular protocols optimized for IoT with low power
consumption and improved coverage.
3. Gateways: In some IoT setups, devices may communicate through intermediate
devices called gateways. Gateways aggregate data from multiple IoT devices and
relay it to the central cloud-based system. They may also perform data processing and
filtering tasks.
4. Cloud Computing: Most IoT architectures utilize cloud-based services to store and
process data. IoT devices transmit data to the cloud where it can be analysed, stored,
and accessed by various applications. Cloud computing provides scalability,
flexibility, and centralized management of IoT infrastructure.
5. Edge Computing: In certain IoT scenarios, data processing is performed at the edge
of the network, closer to the devices. Edge computing reduces latency and bandwidth
usage by processing data locally. It is particularly useful in applications where real-
time responses are critical.
6. Security: IoT networks are susceptible to security threats, and securing IoT devices is
crucial. Some common security measures include encryption of data, secure
authentication, firmware updates to fix vulnerabilities, and proper access controls.
7. IPv6 and Addressing: As the number of IoT devices grows exponentially, the IPv4
addressing scheme becomes insufficient. IPv6 provides a larger address space,
 allowing a virtually unlimited number of unique IP addresses to accommodate the
increasing number of IoT devices.
8. Interoperability: Ensuring that different IoT devices and systems can communicate
and work together seamlessly is essential. Standards and protocols play a vital role in
achieving interoperability between various IoT components.
9. Network Topologies: IoT networks can have different topologies, such as star, mesh,
and tree. The choice of topology depends on factors like range, power consumption,
and scalability.
10. Scalability and Reliability: IoT networks often need to handle a massive number of
devices. Scalability and reliability are crucial to accommodate the expanding network
and ensure continuous operation.
Networking in IoT is a dynamic and evolving field, driven by technological advancements
and the increasing adoption of IoT applications across various industries. As the technology
progresses, more efficient and secure networking solutions will continue to emerge, enabling
a broader range of IoT use cases.
vi. Design for evolvability, heterogeneity, and simplicity of integration. The IoT devices and
sensor nodes are expected to be operational for many years, sometimes with lifecycles of
over 15 years (e.g. smart meters). IoT solutions must be able to withstand and satisfy to use
of new technologies.
vii. Design for simplicity of management. simplicity of management is an important
capability that needs to be properly taken care of when designing IoT solutions.
Autoconfiguration and autoprovisioning are key and well-known means that can ease
deployment of IoT devices, and are also very important to lower operating expenditures
(OPEX).
viii. Design for different service delivery models. Technology is move from product offerings
a combination of product and service offering in a number of industries. For instance,
connected vehicles with the Software as a Service (SaaS). IoT with the wide span of possible
applications clearly benefit from elasticity in deployment of solutions. Cloud and
virtualization technologies play a key enabler role in delivering future IoT services.
ix. Design for lifecycle support. The lifecycle phases are: planning, development,
deployment, and execution. Management aspects include deployment efficiency, design time
tools, and run-time management.

These design principles are taking into consideration for designing use cases (Projects) and
target applications.

Network
A network is a system that allows communication to occur between two people or machines.
In the world of computer networking, the rules for communication must be well defined.
Communicating computers need to know the rules, like two people speaking the same
language- they can communicate without delay. If the computers don’t understand each other,
nothing is accomplished; there is no Internet access, sharing of files, or printing; and all work
stops.

Networking Basics
i. Networks are used to make work and communication more efficient. A network may
connect computers, printers, CD-ROM drives, scanners, and other equipment. The advantage
of having computers and other machines connected is that people can then pass information
back and forth much more quickly.
ii. Another advantage of using networks is that they allow people to share resources. Printers,
hard disks, and applications can be shared, greatly reducing the costs of providing these
resources to each person in a company.
iii. A computer network consists of senders and receivers. The sender, or source, is a
computer that wants to send information to another computer. The receiver is the computer
that the information is sent to, also known as the destination computer.
iv. Often, computers are not the only machines communicating on a network. Other
machines-such as printers with network capabilities-can also act as senders and receivers. A
printer, computer, or any machine that is capable of communicating on the network is
referred to as a device or node.
Types of Networks
The three main categories of networks are as follows:
i. A local area network (LAN) is a small network of computers and printers in a single
building or floor.
6
ii. A metropolitan area network (MAN) is a high-speed internetwork of LANs across a
metropolitan area.
iii. A wide area network (WAN) connects LANs using the public switched telephone
network.

i. Local Area Networks

1. The local area network (LAN) plays an important part in the everyday functioning of
schools, businesses, and government. LANs save people time, lower equipment costs by
centralizing printers and other resources, and allow sensitive information to remain in a
secure location.
2. A local area network is used to connect computers and other network devices so that the
devices can communicate with each other to share resources. Devices on a LAN are
connected using inexpensive cable.
3. Due to limitations in distance, performance, and manageability, the LAN is usually
confined to a single office or floor of a building.
4. In the previous design, several computers are connected via a cable to a central device
called a hub, or switch. Hubs and switches are common devices found on a network. The
lines from the computers to the hub are the cables that allow data transmissions to pass from
one computer to the others. Today, many new local area networks are being installed using
wireless technologies.
5. Wireless LANs allow users to connect to network resources without the installation of
cabling or wiring. They use wireless devices such as access points, or APs, to transmit and
receive data.
6. Local area networks have the following characteristics:
i. They are used within small areas (such as in an office building).
ii. They offer high-speed communication—typically, 10Mbps or faster.
iii. They provide access for many devices.
iv. They use LAN-specific equipment such as repeaters, hubs, and network interface cards.

ii. Metropolitan Area Networks

1. A metropolitan area network (MAN) is made up of LANs that are interconnected across a
city or metropolitan area. MANs have become increasingly popular as a way of allowing
local governments to share valuable resources, communicate with one another, and provide a
large-scale private phone service.
2. Metropolitan area networks have the following characteristics:
i. Sites are dispersed across a city and perhaps the surrounding area as well.
ii. With the advent of MANs, historically slow connections (56Kbps–1.5Mbps) have given
way to communication at hundreds of megabits per second and even gigabit speeds.
iii. They provide single points of connection between each LAN.
iv. They use devices such as routers, telephone and ATM switches, and microwave antennas.

iii. Wide Area Networks

1. A wide area network (WAN) interconnects two or more LANs (or MANs) over
connections often leased from the local telephone company. They can also be connected
through fiber-optic cabling or even wireless technologies.
2. Wide area networks have the following characteristics:
i. They can cover a very large geographical area-even the world size.
ii. They usually communicate at slow speeds (compared to LANs).
iii. Access to the WAN is limited-a LAN usually has only one WAN link that is shared by all
devices.

7
M2M

iv. They use devices such as routers, modems , and WAN switches.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGYNyhJWh64
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_IOZ8_cPgu8

M2M and IoT Technology Fundamentals-

M2M Architecture
M2M architecture consists of three domains (Figure 4):
i. M2M device domain ii. M2M network domain iii. M2M application domain

Figure 4: Three domains of M2M architecture

M2M COMMUNICATION
i. Machine-to-machine (M2M) refers to the process of communication of a physical object or
device at machine with others, mostly for monitoring but also for control purposes.
ii. Each machine in an M2M system embeds a smart device. This device, senses the data or
status of the machine, and performs the computation and communication functions. A device
communicates via wired or wireless systems.
iii. The communication protocols are 6LowPAN (IPv6 over Low-Power Wireless Personal
Area Networks), LWM2M (Lightweight M2M), MQTT (Message Queue Telemetry
Transport protocol), and XMPP (EXtensible Messaging and Presence Protocol).
iv. Each communication device is allocated with 48-bits in Ipv6 address. M2M device
communication domain consists of three entities: physical devices, communication interface
and gateway.
v. Communication interface is a port or a subsystem, which receives the input from one end
and sends the data received to another.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MZsQ1WihonQ

8
Three domains of M2M architecture
Machine-to-Machine (M2M) architecture refers to the networked communication between devices,
machines, or "things" that enable them to exchange information and perform actions without direct
human intervention. In an M2M architecture, there are three primary domains:
1. Device Domain: This domain comprises the physical devices or machines that communicate
with each other. These devices are equipped with sensors, actuators, and communication
modules to gather data, process information, and execute commands. Devices can be anything
from simple sensors to complex industrial machines.
2. Network Domain: The network domain is responsible for facilitating the communication
between the devices in the M2M system. It includes the communication protocols, network
infrastructure, and connectivity technologies necessary to transmit data and control signals
between devices. This domain ensures that the devices can exchange information efficiently
and reliably over the network.
3. Application Domain: The application domain involves the software applications and services
that utilize the data generated by the devices in the M2M system. These applications can
include data analysis, processing, and decision-making algorithms. The applications may also
send commands back to the devices to trigger specific actions based on the processed data.
In summary, the three domains of M2M architecture are the Device Domain (comprising the physical
devices), the Network Domain (facilitating communication), and the Application Domain (utilizing
data and enabling control). These domains work together to create an interconnected M2M system that
enables automated communication and interaction between devices.
m2m application domain
M2M stands for "Machine-to-Machine," and it refers to technologies that enable direct communication
between devices without human intervention. In the M2M application domain, various devices and
machines are interconnected, allowing them to exchange information and perform tasks without the need
for constant human oversight.
The M2M concept is a crucial component of the broader Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem, where
devices are equipped with sensors, processors, and communication modules to gather and share data
with other devices and centralized systems. M2M applications can be found in various industries and
sectors, enabling automation, monitoring, and control of different processes. Here are some examples of
the M2M application domain:
1. Industrial Automation: In manufacturing and industrial settings, M2M technologies are used to
connect machines, robots, and sensors on the factory floor. This allows for real-time monitoring,
data analysis, and process optimization, leading to increased efficiency, reduced downtime, and
predictive maintenance.
2. Smart Grids: In the energy sector, M2M enables smart grids that facilitate communication
between power generation stations, distribution networks, and end-user consumption devices.
This enables better management of electricity distribution, load balancing, and demand-response
mechanisms.
3. Fleet Management: M2M applications are utilized in the transportation and logistics industry for
monitoring and tracking vehicles, optimizing routes, managing fuel consumption, and ensuring
timely deliveries.
4. Healthcare: M2M plays a vital role in the healthcare sector by connecting medical devices and
sensors, such as patient monitoring systems and wearable health trackers. This enables remote
health monitoring, early detection of health issues, and improved patient care.
5. Agriculture: M2M technology is used in precision agriculture, where sensors and connected
devices collect data on soil conditions, weather, and crop health. This data helps farmers make
informed decisions about irrigation, fertilization, and pest control.
6. Smart Cities: In the context of smart cities, M2M applications are employed to enhance urban
infrastructure and services. For example, smart streetlights that adjust their brightness based on
real-time data or waste management systems that optimize garbage collection routes.
7. Home Automation: M2M enables various smart home devices to communicate with each other,
allowing homeowners to control appliances, lighting, security systems, and thermostats remotely.
Overall, the M2M application domain is vast and continues to expand as technology advances. The
seamless communication between devices and machines leads to increased efficiency, reduced costs,
and improved services across various industries and daily life scenarios.
m2m network domain
In the context of M2M (Machine-to-Machine) communication, the M2M network domain refers to the
infrastructure and protocols that enable devices to communicate with each other and exchange data
without human intervention. This network domain plays a critical role in facilitating the seamless flow
of information between connected machines, sensors, and other devices. Below are some key aspects of
the M2M network domain:
1. Communication Protocols: Various communication protocols are used in the M2M network
domain to ensure that devices can transmit and receive data effectively. Some common protocols
include MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry Transport), CoAP (Constrained Application
Protocol), HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol), and LWM2M (Lightweight M2M).
2. Connectivity Technologies: M2M networks utilize different connectivity technologies based on
the specific use case and requirements. These technologies may include cellular networks (2G,
3G, 4G LTE, and now 5G), satellite communication, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, LoRaWAN (Low-
Power Wide Area Network), and NB-IoT (Narrowband Internet of Things).
3. Device Management: In the M2M network domain, device management platforms are employed
to provision, configure, monitor, and update connected devices remotely. These platforms ensure
the efficient management of a large number of devices spread across various locations.
4. Security and Authentication: M2M networks deal with sensitive data, and ensuring the security
of communication is paramount. Strong authentication mechanisms, encryption, and secure data
transfer protocols are implemented to protect against unauthorized access and data breaches.
5. Data Aggregation and Analytics: The M2M network domain often involves the collection of vast
amounts of data from multiple devices. Data aggregation and analytics platforms are used to
process and analyze this data to derive meaningful insights and enable data-driven decision-
making.
6. Scalability: M2M networks must be designed to handle a potentially massive number of
connected devices. Scalability is a critical consideration to ensure that the network can grow and
accommodate new devices and applications as needed.
7. Redundancy and Reliability: M2M networks may be deployed in mission-critical applications
where reliability and continuous connectivity are essential. Redundancy mechanisms and
failover strategies are implemented to ensure uninterrupted communication even in the event of
network failures.
8. Interoperability: As M2M networks grow and devices from different manufacturers are deployed,
interoperability becomes crucial. Standardization efforts and adherence to common
communication protocols enable devices from diverse vendors to communicate seamlessly.
The M2M network domain is a fundamental building block of the broader Internet of Things (IoT)
ecosystem, where interconnected devices and systems work together to automate processes, gather data,
and enable intelligent decision-making. As technology continues to advance, M2M networks are
evolving to support more devices, higher data rates, and increased reliability, paving the way for
innovative applications and solutions in various industries.
m2m devices domain
The M2M (Machine-to-Machine) devices domain refers to the wide range of physical devices and
machines that are equipped with sensors, processors, and communication modules to enable direct
communication and data exchange with other devices without human intervention. These M2M devices
play a crucial role in the Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem, facilitating automation, data collection, and
remote monitoring across various industries and applications. Here are some common examples of M2M
devices:
1. Sensors: Sensors are fundamental components of M2M devices, responsible for capturing data
from the surrounding environment. There are various types of sensors, such as temperature
sensors, humidity sensors, pressure sensors, motion sensors, proximity sensors, and more. They
are used in industries like agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and environmental monitoring.
2. Actuators: Actuators are devices that receive signals from the M2M network and take physical
action based on the received data. For example, an actuator in a smart home system might control
the opening and closing of window blinds, or an actuator in an industrial setting might adjust the
position of robotic arms.
3. Meters: M2M-enabled meters, such as smart electricity meters or water meters, can measure
consumption and send usage data directly to utility companies for accurate billing and
monitoring.
4. Connected Appliances: Appliances like smart refrigerators, thermostats, and washing machines
can be part of the M2M devices domain. They can communicate with each other or with a central
control system to optimize energy usage and provide enhanced functionalities.
5. Medical Devices: In the healthcare industry, M2M devices are used extensively for patient
monitoring. These devices can collect and transmit vital signs data, such as heart rate, blood
pressure, glucose levels, and more, to healthcare professionals for real-time assessment.
6. Telematics Devices: Telematics devices are commonly used in the automotive industry to enable
features like vehicle tracking, remote diagnostics, and usage-based insurance programs.
7. Industrial Machines: In manufacturing and industrial settings, various machines and robots are
equipped with M2M capabilities to enable real-time data exchange, predictive maintenance, and
process optimization.
8. Environmental Monitoring Devices: M2M devices are employed for environmental
monitoring, including air quality sensors, water quality sensors, and weather stations, providing
valuable data for research and decision-making.
9. Security and Surveillance Devices: Security cameras, motion detectors, and other surveillance
devices can be part of the M2M devices domain, allowing for real-time monitoring and alerting
in case of security breaches.
10. Wearable Devices: Wearables like smartwatches and fitness trackers are M2M devices that
collect and transmit data about users' health and activities to smartphones or cloud-based
platforms for analysis and feedback.
As technology advances, the range and complexity of M2M devices continue to grow. The
interconnectedness of these devices enables a more intelligent and automated world, enhancing
efficiency, safety, and convenience in various aspects of our daily lives and industries
Devices and gateways
Devices
There is a growing market for small-scale embedded processing such as 8-, 16-, and 32-bit
microcontrollers with on-chip RAM and flash memory, I/O capabilities, and networking
interfaces such as IEEE 802.15.4 that are integrated on tiny System-on-a-Chip (SoC)
solutions.
i. Such devices allow very limited devices with a small area of a few mm2 and with a very
low power consumption in the milli- to micro-Watt range. These are capable of hosting/
accommodating an entire Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) stack,
including a small web server.
ii. A device can be characterized as having several properties, including:
• Microcontroller: 8-, 16-, or 32-bit working memory and storage.
• Power Source: Fixed, battery, energy harvesting, or hybrid.
• Sensors and Actuators: On board sensors and actuators, or circuitry that allows them to be
connected, sampled, conditioned, and controlled.
• Communication: Cellular, wireless, or wired for LAN and WAN communication.
• Operating System (OS): Main-loop, event-based, real-time, or full featured OS.
• Applications: Simple sensor sampling or more advanced applications.
• User Interface: Display, buttons, or other functions for user interaction.
• Device Management (DM): Provisioning, firmware, bootstrapping, and monitoring.
• Execution Environment (EE): Application lifecycle management and Application
Programming Interface (API).

Device management
1. Device management (DM) is an essential part of the IoT and perform many of the
management tasks for devices:
i. Provisioning: Initialization (or activation) of devices also includes configure the device to
enable the device features.
ii. Device Configuration: Management of device settings and parameters.
iii. Software Upgrades: Installation of firmware, system software, and applications on the
device.
iv. Fault Management: Enables error reporting and access to device status.
2. If the devices are visible (recognized) to the DM server, the gateway can simply forward
the messages between the device.
vi. In case the devices are not visible (not recognized) but understand the DM protocol, the
gateway can act as a proxy.
3. For deployments where the devices use a different DM protocol from the server, the
gateway can represent the devices and translate between the different protocols (e.g. TR-069,
OMA-DM, or CoAP).

Device types
Group devices into two categories
Basic Devices: Devices that only provide the basic services of sensor readings and/or
actuation tasks, and in some cases limited support for user interaction. LAN communication
is supported via wired or wireless technology.
Advanced Devices: In this case the devices also host the application logic and a WAN
connection. They also have device management feature and an execution environment for
hosting multiple applications. Gateway devices are most likely to fall into this category.

9
Basic devices
i. These devices are often intended for a single purpose, such as measuring air pressure or
closing a valve.
ii. In some cases several functions are deployed on the same device, such as monitoring
humidity, temperature, and light level.
iii. Basic devices keeping the bill of materials (BOM) (cost of the device) as low as possible
by using inexpensive microcontrollers with built-in memory and storage. SoC – A integrated
circuit with all main components on one single chip Figure 5.
iv. Another aim is to enable battery as a power source, with a lifespan of a year and upwards
by using ultra-low energy microcontrollers.

Figure 5: Basic device SoC – A integrated circuit with all main components on one single
chip.
v. The microcontroller typically hosts a number of ports that allow integration with sensors
and actuators, such as General Purpose I/O (GPIO) and an analog-to-digital converter (ADC)
for supporting analog input. For certain actuators, such as motors, pulse-width modulation
(PWM) can be used.
vi. Battery-powered devices should as low-power operation. The microcontroller facilitate
sleeping and wake up function of the device depends on the external and internal events.
Some devices even go as far as harvesting energy from their environment, e.g. in the form of
solar, thermal, and physical energy.
vii. To interact with peripherals such as storage or display, it’s common to use a serial
interface such as SPI, I2C, or UART. These interfaces can also be used to communicate with
another microcontroller on the device.

10
viii. This is common when the there is a need for offloading certain tasks, or when in some
cases the entire application logic is put on a separate host processor.
ix. The micro controller also contain a security processor, e.g. to accelerate Advanced
Encryption Standard (AES).

Advanced devices
Some features that can characterize an advanced device are the following:
i. A powerful CPU or microcontroller with enough memory and storage to host advanced
applications, such as a printer offering functions for copying, faxing, printing, and remote
management.
ii. A more advanced user interface. Example, user input in the form of a keypad or touch
screen.
iii. Video or other high bandwidth functions. The advanced device also functions as a
gateway for local devices on the same LAN.
iv. For more computationally capable devices, the OS can be used. Example, GNU/Linux or
Blackberry’s QNX.
v. Advanced devices have optimized and high-performance IP stacks, thus making
networking a non-issue.
vi. By offering a more common and open OS, along with community standardized APIs,
software libraries, programming languages, and development tools, the advance devices
grows significantly.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XvqJtcTXPs4

Deployment scenarios for devices (read partially)

Example deployment scenarios for basic devices include:
• Home Alarms: Such devices typically include motion detectors, magnetic sensors, and
smoke detectors. A central unit takes care of the application logic that calls security and
sounds an alarm if a sensor is activated when the alarm is armed. The central unit also
handles the WAN connection towards the alarm central. These systems are currently often
based on proprietary radio protocols.
• Smart Meters: The meters are installed in the households and measure consumption of, for
example, electricity and gas. A concentrator gateway collects data from the meters, performs
aggregation, and periodically transmits the aggregated data to an application server over a
cellular connection. By using a capillary network technology it’s possible to extend the range
of the concentrator gateway by allowing meters in the periphery to use other meters as
extenders, and interface with handheld devices on the Home Area Network side.
• Building Automation Systems (BASs): Such devices include thermostats, fans, motion
detectors, and boilers, which are controlled by local facilities, but can also be remotely
operated.
• Standalone Smart Thermostats: These use Wi-Fi to communicate with web services.
Examples for advanced devices, meanwhile, include:
• Onboard units in cars that perform remote monitoring and configuration over a cellular
connection.
• Robots and autonomous vehicles such as unmanned aerial vehicles that can work both
autonomously or by remote control using a cellular connection.
• Video cameras for remote monitoring over 3G and LTE.
• Oil well monitoring and collection of data points from remote devices.
• Connected printers that can be upgraded and serviced remotely.

11
Gateways
i. A gateway serves as a translator between different protocols, e.g. between IEEE 802.15.4
or IEEE 802.11, to Ethernet or cellular.
ii. There are many different types of gateways, which can work on different levels in the
protocol layers.
iii. A gateway refers to a device that performs translation of the physical and link layer, but
gateway are also common in application layer gateways (ALGs).
iv. Preferably avoided or reduce ALG because it adds complexity and is a common source of
error in deployments.
v. Some examples of ALGs include the ZigBee Gateway Device which translates from
ZigBee to SOAP and IP, or gateways that translate from Constrained Application Protocol
(CoAP) to HyperText Transfer Protocol/Representational State Transfer (HTTP/REST).
vi. The gateway device is also used for many other tasks, such as data management, device
management, and local applications
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i4fHdnnraKw

Data management
i. Typical functions for data management include performing sensor readings and caching
this data, as well as filtering, concentrating, and aggregating the data before transmitting it to
back-end servers. (check IoT architecture figure)
ii. Modern enterprises need to be quick-thinking and dynamically support multiple decision-
making processes taken at several levels. In order to achieve this, critical information needs
to be available at the right point in a timely manner, and in the right form.
iii. All this info is the result of data being acquired increasingly by M2M interactions, which
in conjunction with the processes involved, assist in better decision-making.
Some of the key characteristics of M2M data include:
1. Big Data: Huge amounts of data are generated, capturing detailed aspects of the processes
where devices are involved.
2. Heterogeneous Data: The data is produced by a huge variety of devices and is itself highly
heterogeneous, differing on sampling rate, quality of captured values, etc.
3. Real-World Data: The overwhelming majority of the M2M data relates to real-world
processes and is dependent on the environment they interact with.
4. Real-Time Data: M2M data is generated in real-time and communicated in a very timely
manner. It is importance since many times their business value depends on the real-time
processing of the info they transfer.
5. Temporal Data: The majority of M2M data is of temporal nature, measuring the
environment over time.
6. Spatial Data: Increasingly, the data generated by M2M interactions are not only captured
by mobile devices, but also coupled to interactions in specific locations, and their assessment
may dynamically vary depending on the location.
7. Polymorphic Data: The data acquired and used by M2M processes may be complex and
involve various data, which can also obtain different meanings depending on the semantics
applied and the process they participate in.
8. Proprietary Data: Up to now, due to monolithic application development, a significant
amount of M2M data is stored and captured in proprietary formats. However, increasingly
due to the interactions with heterogeneous devices and stakeholders, open approaches for
data storage and exchange are used.

12
9. Security and Privacy Data Aspects: Due to the detailed capturing of interactions by M2M,
analysis of the obtained data has a high risk of leaking private information and usage patterns,
as well as compromising security.
In the era of M2M, where billions of devices interact and generate data at exponential growth
rates, data management is of critical importance as it sets the basis upon which any other
processes can rely and operate.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=85UjnwvE9RM

Business processes in IoT

1. There are several types of business processes such as management, operational, and
supporting, all of which aim at achieving a specific mission.
2. Several key business processes in modern enterprise systems heavily rely on interaction
with real-world processes, largely for monitoring, but also for some control (management), in
order to take business-critical decisions and optimize actions across the enterprise.
3. The introduction of modern Information and Communications Technology (ICT) has
significantly changed the way enterprises (and therefore business processes) interact with the
real world.
4. Initially all these interactions were human-based (e.g. via a keyboard) or human-assisted
(e.g. via a barcode scanner); however, with the prevalence of RFID, WSNs, and advanced
networked embedded devices, all information exchange between the real-world and
enterprise systems can be done automatically without any human intervention and at blazing
speeds.

Figure 6: A collaborative infrastructure driven by M2M and M2B.

13
Business processes in IoT
ChatGPT
Business processes in the context of the Internet of Things (IoT) involve the integration of
connected devices, sensors, data analytics, and automation to optimize operations, improve
efficiency, and create new business opportunities. IoT enables businesses to gather real-time
data from various sources and make informed decisions to enhance productivity, reduce costs,
and provide better customer experiences. Here are some common business processes in IoT:
1. Data Collection: IoT devices and sensors collect data from the physical environment
or assets. This data includes temperature, humidity, location, movement, energy
consumption, etc. The data is transmitted to a centralized system for processing and
analysis.
2. Data Processing and Analytics: Collected data is processed and analyzed to extract
valuable insights. Advanced analytics techniques like machine learning are applied to
identify patterns, anomalies, and trends that can inform business decisions.
3. Predictive Maintenance: IoT-enabled devices can predict when equipment or
machinery is likely to fail, allowing businesses to schedule maintenance before a
breakdown occurs. This approach reduces downtime and avoids costly repairs.
4. Inventory Management: IoT can be used to monitor inventory levels in real-time. This
ensures that stock levels are optimized, reducing excess inventory and preventing
stockouts.
5. Supply Chain Optimization: IoT enables end-to-end visibility in the supply chain,
tracking goods and shipments from production to delivery. This streamlines logistics,
reduces delays, and improves overall efficiency.
6. Smart Manufacturing: IoT devices in manufacturing equipment can monitor
performance, track production metrics, and identify bottlenecks. This data-driven
approach enhances production efficiency and quality.
7. Remote Monitoring: IoT allows businesses to remotely monitor assets, equipment, or
facilities. This is particularly useful in industries like energy, utilities, and healthcare,
where critical infrastructure needs constant monitoring.
8. Environmental Monitoring: IoT sensors can monitor environmental conditions, such
as air quality, water quality, and weather patterns. This data is valuable for
environmental compliance, sustainability efforts, and public health initiatives.
9. Customer Experience Enhancement: IoT enables businesses to personalize customer
experiences by using data from connected devices. For instance, wearable devices can
provide personalized health recommendations.
10. Energy Management: IoT helps optimize energy consumption by analyzing data from
smart meters, thermostats, and other energy-efficient devices. This leads to cost
savings and reduced environmental impact.
 11. Asset Tracking: IoT can be used to track valuable assets like vehicles, equipment, and
tools. This enhances asset security, reduces theft, and improves asset utilization.
12. Predictive Analytics for Sales and Marketing: IoT data can be used to understand
customer behaviour, preferences, and usage patterns, enabling businesses to create
targeted marketing campaigns and personalized offerings.
In summary, IoT brings a wealth of opportunities for businesses to improve their processes,
streamline operations, and create new value propositions. However, it also introduces
challenges related to data security, privacy, and interoperability that need to be carefully
addressed
everything as a service

ChatGPT

"Everything as a Service" (XaaS) is a concept in the field of cloud computing and software delivery
where various services and applications are provided to users over the internet. The term "as a
Service" is commonly abbreviated as "aaS." The XaaS model allows users to access and utilize a wide
range of resources, software, and platforms without the need to own or maintain the underlying
infrastructure.

Some of the popular XaaS offerings include:

1. Software as a Service (SaaS): This is one of the most well-known models, where software
applications are delivered over the internet on a subscription basis. Users can access the
software through web browsers, and the hosting, maintenance, and updates are handled by
the service provider.

2. Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): In this model, cloud providers offer virtualized computing
resources over the internet. It includes virtual machines, storage, and networking
capabilities, allowing users to run and manage their applications without worrying about the
physical hardware.

3. Platform as a Service (PaaS): PaaS provides a platform and environment for developers to
build, deploy, and manage applications without the complexity of managing the underlying
infrastructure. It typically includes development tools, databases, and runtime environments.

4. Function as a Service (FaaS)/Serverless Computing: FaaS enables developers to deploy

individual functions or code snippets as discrete units of work. The cloud provider
automatically manages the infrastructure and scales the execution of these functions based
on demand.

5. Database as a Service (DBaaS): This service provides managed database solutions,

eliminating the need for users to set up, maintain, and scale databases. Examples include
managed MySQL, PostgreSQL, or NoSQL databases.

6. Desktop as a Service (DaaS): DaaS allows users to access a virtual desktop environment
hosted in the cloud, providing the flexibility to work from various devices while the data and
applications are stored centrally.

7. Security as a Service (SECaaS): This encompasses cloud-based security solutions like

antivirus, firewalls, encryption services, and identity management, which are provided as a
service to protect users' data and applications.

8. Artificial Intelligence as a Service (AIaaS): AIaaS provides access to machine learning and
artificial intelligence capabilities, allowing developers to integrate AI functionalities into their
applications without building the entire infrastructure from scratch.

The XaaS model offers several advantages, such as increased flexibility, scalability, cost-effectiveness,
and reduced maintenance burden for users. It has become a fundamental component of modern
cloud computing, enabling businesses and individuals to access a wide range of services without
significant upfront investments.