IoT Facts & Devices 2.3

What is the Internet of Things (IoT)?

A system of connected devices with unique IDs that send data over a network without human interaction. Also called the "Internet of Everything."

Where is IoT used?

Homes (thermostats, lights, security), healthcare (pacemakers, telemedicine), cities (utilities, traffic), farming (livestock, soil monitoring), industry (IIoT for production/quality control), vehicles (smart communication), retail (advertising, tracking), and wearables (smartwatches).

What are the four main IoT systems?

Devices with sensors, Gateways, Cloud storage & processing, Remote controls/apps.

What do IoT sensors do?

They collect data (e.g., temperature, GPS, heart rate) and send it to the cloud for analysis.

What role does the IoT gateway play?

It acts as a bridge between the device and the cloud, allowing data to flow.

What happens to IoT data in the cloud?

It’s processed and analyzed, then results are sent back to apps/servers for user interaction.

Can IoT devices act automatically?

Yes — they can trigger actions (e.g., sound alarms, call police) without user input.

What are the five IoT architecture layers?

Edge Technology, Access Gateway, Internet, Middleware, Application.

What happens at the Edge Technology layer?

Sensors and devices collect real-world data; actuators can change the physical environment.

What happens at the Access Gateway layer?

Data is collected, compressed, converted to digital form, and routed for analysis.

What happens at the Internet layer?

It bridges devices, gateways, and cloud systems, transmitting and sometimes pre-processing data.

What happens at the Middleware layer?

Cloud processes: data management, filtering, aggregation, device management, access control, and feedback.

What happens at the Application layer?

Delivers processed data to the user and allows them to send commands back into the system.

What communication protocols does IoT use?

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Zigbee, and Z-Wave.

What is Wi-Fi used for in IoT?

Wireless LAN communication between devices; Wi-Fi Direct allows peer-to-peer without an access point.

What is BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy)?

A low-power wireless protocol for long-term use in healthcare, security, entertainment, and fitness devices.

What is Zigbee?

An open standard using mesh networking; unlimited hops, 60 ft per hop, operates at 2.4 GHz (may clash with Wi-Fi).

What is Z-Wave?

A closed standard using mesh networking; up to 250 ft per hop, max 4 hops, operates at 908.42 MHz (less interference).

What is another name for IoT?

Internet of Everything (IoE).

What must every IoT device have?

A unique identifier (UID).

What are the key features of IoT?

Connectivity, sensors, artificial intelligence, small devices, and active engagement.

What are the two ways IoT remote controls can trigger actions?

Predefined rules set by the user (automatic actions) and User-initiated actions through an app or interface.

What additional functions does the IoT middleware layer handle?

Device information discovery and revision for feedback.

What are examples of common smart devices?

Thermostats, light switches, bulbs, plugs, security cameras, door locks, sprinkler systems, smart speakers (e.g., Google Home, Amazon Echo).

What is the Amazon Echo?

A smart speaker controlled by voice, usually using the wake word "Alexa."

What can the Echo do?

Play music, make to-do lists, set alarms, give weather info, control other smart devices, and more.

How do most smart devices, including the Echo, get managed?

Through a mobile app.

What can you configure in the Alexa app?

Voice training, voice purchasing settings, Alexa voice response length, Amazon Household sharing, and history of commands.

What is a privacy concern with smart speakers like Alexa?

Some people worry they are "listening too much," even though a wake word is required.

How does the Echo work with smart lights?

You can turn lights on/off through the app or by voice, and set routines (e.g., turn on at night, off in the morning).

What is a smart plug?

A device you plug into a wall outlet that lets you control appliances (like a lamp) through an app or Alexa.

How can smart plugs be controlled?

By voice commands ("Alexa, light off") or by app routines (scheduled on/off).

What app features are typical for smart plugs?

Turn plugs on/off, add new devices, set up other compatible devices, and link with services like Alexa.

How are smart security cameras managed?

Through a mobile app for setup, viewing video clips, and adjusting settings.

What features can be customized on smart cameras?

Camera name, battery life, temperature display, sensitivity, retrigger time, clip length, infrared, video quality, Wi-Fi strength.

How do battery-powered security cameras record?

They only record on motion or when manually triggered, not continuously.

What types of smart devices were demonstrated in the video?

Amazon Echo (smart speaker), smart plug, and smart security camera system.