Prime Electrical Services prides itself on a proactive approach to telecommunications. The low voltage industry is constantly changing and progressing with new technologies and resources being released all the time. At Prime, we combine industry knowledge and a client-oriented focus, making sure that our clientele has the latest technology and methodology, as well as a personalized approach that fulfills their project’s needs specifically.
One of the most prominent aspects of the low voltage industry is the Internet of Things (IoT). The Internet of Things is exactly what it sounds like – the connectivity of various devices to the internet. This structure creates an ecosystem of devices that boost productivity, increase communication, collect and store information, and deliver better ease-of-use for users. Any device can be an IoT device so long as it can be connected to the internet and has an on/off switch – however, the IoT typically does not include smartphones or computers (since they are already expected to be connected to the internet).
So how does the Internet of Things work? Essentially, it is a web of various internet-connected devices. Each device has one or more sensors that allows them to send and collect information, therefore allowing devices to communicate with each other. This enables people to access the created IoT system remotely because everything is connected to the internet.
One of the main benefits of the IoT is the self-sufficiency of the system as a whole. Since the devices can communicate with each other, they can act on the information that they receive from one another. This, in turn, reduces the need for high levels of human interaction or interference, though people still have the option to interact and take control of devices by giving instructions or setting up procedures. The IoT frees up human capital to work on the more important and creative aspects of a project or business that a machine cannot handle, therefore streamlining processes, increasing the return on investment for human capital, and reducing the mundaneness of certain jobs.The data and connectivity that the Internet of Things provides allows businesses and individuals to make smarter decisions. This boots efficiency, allows firms to increase their competitiveness in their industry, and boost revenue. Business Insider Intelligence predicts that there will be more than 64 billion IoT devices installed worldwide by 2026.
As the application and implementation of IoT devices continue to grow, the threat of hackers and security breaches is a growing concern. It is important for information to stay secure and each potential opening (IoT portal) to be monitored and properly locked down. Moving forward, it is vital that telecommunications and structured cabling providers properly protect their devices and instill adequate cybersecurity measures when dealing with confidential information.
Prime prides itself on growing with the industry and providing safe, protected, and new applications for our clientele to fit their needs and allow them to progress along with the world around them. We look forward to seeing the low voltage industry continue to grow and adapt to both current and future technologies.
A Brief History of IoT
The term “Internet of Things” was coined in 1999 by Kevin Ashton, but the idea of including sensors in everyday objects began as early as the 1980s. However, technology was not quite up-to-speed during the 80s and 90s and the execution of the idea was not fully possible. Chips were too large and there was no way for objects to communicate effectively. It was not until there were RFID tags and an increased availability of broadband internet and cellular/wireless networking that IoT could take off. Since then, the concept has continued to progress rapidly and the integration of IoT devices increases on a daily basis.
A Real-Life Example
The IoT allows for a digital live work site map that can log and keep track of potential risks and safety hazards. As an employee gets closer to an area of potential risk, he or she can be notified that they are entering a risk-filled area by their IoT device. This is especially important for monitoring air quality and enclosed spaces. The IoT technology can notify employees of risks as well as identify potential risks before and while they happen.
Other Up-and-Coming IoT Devices to be on the Lookout for:
- Weather reporting systems
- Tool and material trackers
- Liquid-level monitoring systems
- Air pollution monitoring systems
- Gas pike leakage detectors
- Security systems
- Smart parking systems
- Health monitoring systems
- Smart water irrigations systems
- Traffic management systems
- Streetlight monitoring systems
- Flood detection
- Facial recognition doors and locks
Looking Toward the Future
Business Insider Intelligence predicts that there will be more than 64 billion IoT devices installed worldwide by 2026
Industries Affected by the IoT
Industries such as manufacturing, transportation, defense, infrastructure, retail, logistics, hospitality, and smart buildings are some of the most predominant industries affected by IoT, though all aspects of the world market will likely be touched by IoT in some capacity.
Some Benefits of the Internet of Things are That it:
- Encourages the interaction between devices (machine-to-machine interaction)
- Provides increases automation and control
- Integrates with more technical information and is able to make more informed decisions
- Possesses a strong monitoring feature
- Helps save money by reducing manual task and time
- Saves time and increases efficiency