96  Overview of the Internet of Things

96.1 Chapter Overview

This chapter provides a comprehensive introduction to the Internet of Things (IoT), covering fundamental concepts, historical evolution, and practical applications. The content has been organized into focused chapters for easier navigation and learning.

96.2 Learning Path

Start with IoT Introduction and progress through the chapters in order, or jump directly to topics of interest using the guide below.

96.3 Chapter Guide

96.3.1 Getting Started (Beginner)

Chapter Description Key Topics
IoT Introduction From everyday objects to smart devices Three Ingredients Test, Five Verbs Framework, Global Impact
IoT Requirements What makes an IoT device Minimum requirements, Eleven ideal characteristics, Architecture layers
IoT Perspectives How stakeholders view IoT Security, DIY, Hardware, Architecture, Data Analytics perspectives

96.3.2 Understanding Evolution (Intermediate)

Chapter Description Key Topics
Device Evolution Embedded vs Connected vs IoT Device classification, ARM Cortex-M, BLE, Wireless paradigms
IoT History Lessons from technology shifts Paradigm blindness, Innovator’s Dilemma, Emerging use cases
Systems Evolution How computing enabled IoT 10x technology cycles, Moore’s Law, Dennard Scaling, 2005 inflection
Industry 4.0 Industrial IoT and classification Four industrial revolutions, Device classification framework

96.3.3 Practical Applications (Advanced)

Chapter Description Key Topics
Applications Gallery Visual tour of IoT domains Smart cities, homes, agriculture, energy, building automation
Worked Examples Cost-benefit calculations Smart traffic ROI, Air quality networks, Flood warning, Weather stations
Common Pitfalls Mistakes to avoid Vendor lock-in, Security neglect, TCO underestimation, Failure modes

96.4 Key Concepts Summary

96.4.1 The Three Ingredients Test

Every IoT device requires:

  1. Thing - A physical object you can touch
  2. Computation - Processing capability (microcontroller, chip)
  3. Internet - Network connectivity (direct or through gateway)

If ANY ingredient is missing, it’s NOT an IoT device.

96.4.2 The Five Verbs of IoT

IoT applications address five fundamental human activities:

  • SUSTAIN - Resource management, environmental protection ($1.1T by 2030)
  • MOVE - Transportation and logistics ($950B by 2030)
  • HEAL - Healthcare and wellbeing ($650B by 2030)
  • FEED - Agriculture and food systems ($420B by 2030)
  • MAKE - Manufacturing and production ($870B by 2030)

96.4.3 Device Classification

Category Connectivity Intelligence Example
Embedded None Fixed programs Microwave timer
Connected Internet Remote control Wi-Fi light bulb
IoT Internet Autonomous decisions Nest thermostat

96.5 Quick Start Recommendations

If you’re completely new to IoT: Start with IoT Introduction for a gentle introduction with everyday examples.

If you want to understand the technology: Read Device Evolution and Systems Evolution for the technical foundation.

If you’re evaluating IoT for business: Jump to Worked Examples for ROI calculations and Common Pitfalls for risk awareness.

If you’re building IoT products: Review IoT Requirements for design principles and Industry 4.0 for classification frameworks.