From the course: Digital Transformation Tips

Linking elements together via the Internet of Things

From the course: Digital Transformation Tips

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Linking elements together via the Internet of Things

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- [Instructor] In today's hyperconnected world, digital transformation reaches beyond just computers. These days, more devices are connected to the internet than ever before. Welcome to the Internet of Things. So what exactly is the Internet of Things? Well, simply put, it's the network of any and all devices that can connect to the internet. It likely began in the 1980s with an experiment at Carnegie Mellon University. One of the computer whizzes there figured out how to connect a soft drink machine so that you could tell via the internet if, A, there were any drinks, and B, if they were cold. The Internet of Things was named by Kevin Ashton, the Executive Director of Auto ID Labs at MIT during a speech in 1999. As time has passed, the number of connected devices and the number of different ways to connect has exploded, providing even more interaction with data through various devices. On the consumer side, you might already be using IoT systems at home, like controlling heating, lighting, security, or entertainment from your phone, your tablet, or your computer, whether you're on the couch or halfway around the world. Businesses have also embraced IoT principles and adapted them for more complex environments. IoT has made significant impact on manufacturing through what's called smart factories. One prominent example is Siemens, a leader in automation and industrial technology. Siemens has implemented IoT across their production lines by integrating sensors and connected devices throughout their factories. These sensors monitor everything from machine performance to energy use, creating a constant stream of data that's analyzed in real time. By doing this, Siemens can predict when a machine needs maintenance before it breaks down, reducing downtime and improving overall efficiency. This approach, known as predictive maintenance, allows the company to keep their equipment running smoothly while lowering repair costs and minimizing interruptions in production. It's a perfect example of how IoT can transform operations by making them smarter and more efficient. Outside of manufacturing, take a look at the agriculture industry. Modern farms are integrating the Internet of Things with sensors in fields to monitor soil moisture, weather conditions, and crop health in real time. Using this data, automated irrigation systems can adjust water use more efficiently, leading to improved crop yields and resource management. The goal is to connect as many devices as possible to create smarter, data-driven operations. Of course, there are some concerns to be aware of. First and foremost, security. It's crucial that these connections remain accessible only to authorized individuals and devices. Neglecting this has already led to some unfortunate situations where hackers gain control of systems, holding them ransom or causing chaos. Privacy is another issue. More connected devices mean more data is collected about you and your customers, and that data needs to be protected. I'm cautiously optimistic that we'll find solid solutions to these security and privacy challenges, but the next few years will be telling. In the meantime, if you're designing systems that use IoT, make sure you're doing the necessary due diligence to keep your business and your users safe from data breaches and other risks.

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