UNIT-1

A) The Internet of Things: An Overview

1. The Flavour of the Internet of Things

 IoT combines physical devices, networks, software, and data processing.

 It enables objects in the physical world to be part of the digital world.
 It is not one single technology but a blend of various technologies working together.
 IoT focuses on automation, data collection, remote access, and intelligent
decision-making.
 Example: Smartwatches that track steps, heart rate, and notify you of messages.

2. The “Internet” of “Things”

 Internet: Refers to the global network that connects billions of devices.

 Things: Physical objects that are embedded with:
o Sensors to collect data.
o Microcontrollers to process information.
o Connectivity modules to send/receive data.
 IoT allows machine-to-machine (M2M) communication without human input.
 Devices are assigned unique IP addresses to identify and interact on the internet.
 Example: A smart AC that turns on when your phone GPS tells it you're nearby.

3. The Technology of the Internet of Things

IoT is made of several core technologies:

a) Sensors & Actuators

 Sensors collect data from the environment (e.g., temperature, light, motion).
 Actuators take action based on the data (e.g., turn on a fan).

b) Connectivity

 Devices connect using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, ZigBee, 4G/5G, LoRa, etc.

 Connection allows real-time communication and control.

c) Microcontrollers/Processors

 Small computing units (like Arduino, ESP32, Raspberry Pi) process sensor data.

d) Cloud & Software

 Data is sent to the cloud where it is stored, analyzed, and used for decision-making.
 Mobile or web applications allow users to monitor and control devices.
4. Enchanted Objects

 These are ordinary items enhanced with IoT capabilities to make them seem "smart"
or "magical".
 They react to the environment or user actions without direct input.
 Examples:
o A smart mirror that displays weather and calendar.
o A smart pen that saves handwritten notes to your phone.
o A lamp that changes color based on your mood or music.

These objects blend art, design, and technology to improve quality of life in a delightful
way.

5. Who is making the Internet of Things?

Various types of professionals contribute to building IoT systems:

a) Designers

 Focus on user experience and how devices look and feel.

 Ensure that IoT products are aesthetic and easy to use.

b) Engineers

 Build the hardware and circuits.

 Design the connectivity and power management systems.

c) Developers

 Write the software and firmware that runs on devices.

 Develop apps and cloud platforms to interface with IoT hardware.

d) Hackers/Makers

 Hobbyists who experiment with electronics and new ideas.

 Often build prototypes and innovate new use-cases.

e) Artists/Craftspeople

 Blend technology with creativity.

 Work on smart installations, wearables, and artistic IoT applications.

 1. The Flavour of the Internet of Things

 What it is IoT is about connecting everyday physical objects ("things") to the internet
and to each other.
 The "Flavour It means adding intelligence, awareness, and connectivity to objects that
were previously "dumb." Imagine your fridge knowing it's out of milk, your
thermostat learning your schedule, or streetlights adjusting based on traffic.
 Goal To make our lives easier, more efficient, safer, and more informed by letting the
physical world generate and share data automatically.

 2. The “Internet” of “Things”

 "Internet":Refers to the global network infrastructure that allows communication and
data exchange.
 "Things":Any physical object that can be fitted with sensors, software, and
connectivity. Examples:
 * Wearables (smartwatches, fitness trackers)
 * Home Appliances (fridges, thermostats, lights)
 * Industrial Machines (factory robots, sensors on pipelines)
 * Vehicles (cars, trucks)
 * City Infrastructure (streetlights, waste bins, traffic signals)
 * Agricultural Sensors (soil moisture, weather stations)
 Together:IoT = Connecting "Things" to the "Internet" so they can send/receive data
and be monitored/controlled remotely.

 3. The Technology of the Internet of Things

 IoT relies on a stack of technologies working together:

* Sensors & Actuators: The "senses" and "muscles" of things. Sensors collect data
(temperature, motion, light, location, etc.). Actuators perform actions (turn on a
motor, open a valve, sound an alarm).
* Connectivity: How things talk to the network/internet:
* Short Range: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, NFC.
* Long Range/Cellular: 4G LTE, 5G, NB-IoT, LoRaWAN.
* Wired: Ethernet (common in industrial settings).
* Data Processing:
* Edge Computing: Processing data locally on the device or a nearby gateway for
speed and efficiency (e.g., real-time decisions).
* Cloud Computing: Sending vast amounts of data to powerful remote servers for
deeper analysis and long-term storage.
* Data Analytics & AI: Turning raw sensor data into useful insights (e.g., predicting
machine failure, optimizing energy use, understanding customer behavior).
* User Interface (UI): How users interact with IoT systems (mobile apps, web
dashboards, voice assistants).
* Security: Critical layer protecting devices, data, and networks from hacking
(encryption, authentication, secure updates).

 4. Enchanted Objects
 * **Concept:** Coined by designer David Rose. Refers to IoT devices designed to
feel magical, intuitive, and seamlessly integrated into our lives, rather than complex
tech gadgets.
 * **Key Ideas:**
 * **Focus on Human Need:** Solve real problems elegantly.
 * **Natural Interaction:** Use familiar forms and intuitive interfaces (e.g., a
talking umbrella that tells you it will rain, not just a weather app notification).
 * **Ambient Intelligence:** Blend into the background until needed; provide
information subtly.
  * **Personality & Delight:** Objects can have charm and evoke positive
emotions.
 * **Goal:** Move beyond screens and keyboards to create technology that feels less
like technology and more like helpful, almost magical, everyday objects.

 5. Who is Making the Internet of Things?

 A vast ecosystem of players:

* Hardware Manufacturers: Design and build the physical sensors, devices, and
chips (e.g., Qualcomm, Texas Instruments, Bosch, Arduino, Raspberry Pi).
* Software & Platform Providers: Develop operating systems, cloud platforms, data
analytics tools, and security solutions specifically for IoT (e.g., Amazon AWS IoT,
Microsoft Azure IoT, Google Cloud IoT Core, IBM Watson IoT).
* Connectivity Providers: Telecom companies and network specialists providing the
communication infrastructure (e.g., Vodafone, Verizon, AT&T, Sigfox).
* Device Makers (OEMs): Companies integrating sensors, connectivity, and
software into end-user products (e.g., Samsung SmartThings, Philips Hue, Tesla,
industrial equipment manufacturers).
* System Integrators: Companies that combine hardware, software, and connectivity
from different vendors to build complete IoT solutions for businesses.
* Startups: Driving innovation with niche applications, new sensors, and novel user
experiences.
* Consumers & Hobbyists: Using DIY platforms (like Arduino/Raspberry Pi) to
build personal IoT projects.
* Governments & Cities: Implementing IoT for smart city initiatives (traffic
management, utilities, public safety).
* Industries: Deploying Industrial IoT (IIoT) for manufacturing (predictive
maintenance), logistics (tracking), agriculture (precision farming), healthcare (remote
monitoring).

Definition of Internet of Things (IoT):

IoT means connecting physical objects (like machines, vehicles, or devices) to the internet.
These objects have sensors and chips that help collect, send, and receive data.

OR
IoT is a network of smart devices connected through the internet. These devices talk to each
other to share data and perform tasks.

Main Components of IoT:

1. Physical Object (Thing):

Any real-world object with a chip or sensor that can connect to the internet and
 send/receive data.
Example: Smart fridge, smart watch.
2. Sensors/Actuators:
o Sensors collect data (like temperature, motion, etc.) from the environment.
o Actuators take action based on that data (like turning on a fan).
3. Connectivity:
The data collected by sensors is sent to the internet (cloud) using:
o Wi-Fi
o Bluetooth
o Mobile Networks (3G, 4G, 5G)
o Satellite
o WAN/LAN
4. Data Processing:
Once the data reaches the cloud, it is processed using software. This helps make
decisions or trigger actions.
5. User Interface:
The result is shown to the user through a screen, mobile app, or notification.
Example: An app showing room temperature or sending an alert.

People Involved in Making IoT and Their Roles:

1. Artist
o Helps with design and appearance.
o May work with designers or craftspersons to make IoT devices look attractive.
2. Craftsperson
 o Makes physical parts of the device.
o Good at building and shaping materials.
3. Designer
o Makes the prototype look user-friendly and beautiful.
o Works on how the device looks and how users interact with it.
4. Engineer
o Builds the technical parts.
o Helps solve difficult technical problems.
o Ensures the IoT device works correctly and can be produced on a large scale.
5. Hacker
o Tinkers or experiments with the prototype.
o Tries new things or improves existing ones.
6. Developer (Software Developer)
o Writes the software and online part of the IoT system.
o Makes sure the device can connect and communicate over the internet.

In Short:

 Artist: Makes it look good

 Craftsperson: Builds it
 Designer: Designs user experience
 Engineer: Makes it work technically
 Hacker: Experiments and tests
 Developer: Programs and connects it online
Calm and Ambient Technology (with Example of Live Wire/Dangling String)

What is Ambient Technology?

 "Ambient" means in the background.

 This technology works quietly without demanding our attention.
 Example: background noise removal in sound recordings.
 Devices sense the environment and work silently without bothering users.

Why is it Important?

 If too many devices start grabbing our attention, it creates distraction.

 This can be overwhelming, especially when connected to the internet.
 Too much information becomes confusing and hard to handle.
Calm Technology

 Calm technology works quietly in the user’s background.

 It only becomes noticeable when needed.
 It doesn’t interrupt you but still keeps you informed.
 Keeps attention on important tasks, while technology stays in the background.

Goal: Let the user control when to focus on the tech, not the other way around.

Peripheral Awareness

 “Periphery” = the area around our direct focus.

 Calm tech stays in the periphery and shifts into focus only when needed.
 Helps avoid stress and overload from too many notifications or alerts.

Example: Live Wire / Dangling String

 Developed by Mark Weiser to show calm technology in action.

 An 8-foot string is hung from the ceiling, connected to a motor.
 Motor is connected to the internet/network.
 Based on network activity:
o If normal, the string moves slightly.
o If network is busy, the string spins fast and makes noise.
o If network is down, the string becomes still.
 It gives feedback about network status without using a screen or sending alerts.
 It uses motion and sound to inform, but does not disturb unless needed.

Summary

 Calm tech keeps things smooth and non-distracting.

 Ambient tech works silently in the background.
 The Dangling String is a great example — it gives you updates through simple
movement and noise, not notifications or popups.
(a) Small Pieces Loosely Joined

Meaning:

 Internet works well not because it is tightly controlled.

 It works because it is made up of many small independent services that are loosely
connected.

Explanation:

 A website or service is not one big thing — it is made of many small, independent
parts (e.g., databases, APIs, servers, sensors).
 Each part does one job well and does not depend heavily on other parts.
 These parts are "loosely joined" — they communicate but are not tightly linked.
 This makes the system flexible, easy to update, and reusable.

Why useful in IoT?:

 IoT systems are complex. If each component (sensor, software, display, etc.) is
independent and modular:
o Easier to replace or upgrade parts.
o Easier to connect with other systems.
o Encourages use of standard protocols.
o Saves development time and cost.
🧩 (b) Graceful Degradation

Meaning:

 Even if some parts/features don't work, the system should still run with basic
functionality.
 It should degrade (reduce features) without crashing or fully stopping.

Example:

 If a web page uses new features, but the browser is old:

o The old browser should still show a basic version of the page.
o The newer features are ignored without breaking the whole site.

Why useful in IoT?:

 IoT devices often have different levels of capability.

 Older or limited devices can still read or use new data formats (using backward
compatibility).
 Newer systems can add extra features without breaking support for older devices.
 Helps maintain user experience even when all features are not supported.
Difference Between Static and Dynamic IP Address
Feature Static IP Address Dynamic IP Address
A fixed IP address manually An IP address that is automatically
Definition
assigned to a device. assigned and changes over time.
Assigned by DHCP (Dynamic
Assigned manually by network
Assignment Method Host Configuration Protocol)
admin.
server.
Changes every time the device
IP Address Behavior Does not change. Stays constant.
connects to the network.
Less secure if not properly More secure due to frequent
Security
managed (predictable). changes, harder to track.
Usually costs extra from Internet Generally included with regular
Cost
Service Providers (ISP). internet service.
Best for servers, CCTV, VOIP, Best for general users like home
Suitability
hosting websites. users, mobile devices, offices.
Requires manual setup, prone to Auto-configured, less chance of
Configuration
human error. setup errors.
More complex for large networks Easier to manage in large
Network Complexity
(requires planning). networks.
Internet Access Good for services needing stable May affect services requiring
Consistency connection (remote access, VPN). consistent access.
Easier for diagnosing issues (IP Harder to trace due to changing
Troubleshooting
always known). IPs.
CCTV camera server with IP:
Your phone gets a new IP every
Example 192.168.0.10 always stays the
time you turn Wi-Fi on.
same.

Working of Domain Name System (DNS) –

What is DNS?

DNS stands for Domain Name System.

It is like the phonebook of the internet that converts domain names (like
www.google.com) into IP addresses (like 142.250.190.4) that computers use to identify each
other.

How DNS Works – Step by Step:

Step 1: User Types URL

 You type www.example.com in your browser.

Step 2: Check Local Cache

 Your computer checks if it has the IP address saved (cached) from earlier.
 If found, it directly uses it.
  If not found, it asks a DNS Resolver.

Step 3: DNS Resolver (Recursive Resolver)

 This is usually provided by your Internet Service Provider (ISP).

 If it doesn’t know the IP, it continues the search.

Step 4: Ask the Root DNS Server

 Resolver sends request to Root Server.

 Root server doesn’t give the final IP but directs to TLD Server (Top-Level Domain
like .com, .org).

Step 5: Ask the TLD Server

 TLD server gives information about the Authoritative DNS Server for example.com.

Step 6: Ask Authoritative DNS Server

 Authoritative server gives the exact IP address for www.example.com.

Step 7: Return IP Address

 DNS Resolver gets the IP, gives it to your computer.

 Now your browser can open the website using this IP.

Example:

You enter www.google.com →

Your device → checks local cache →
If not found → contacts resolver → root → .com TLD → Google’s DNS →
Returns IP 142.250.190.4 → browser opens Google!

Main Components of DNS

Component Description
DNS Resolver First place your request goes, provided by ISP.
Root DNS Server Top-level, guides to correct TLD server.
TLD Server Knows the IP for .com, .org, .net, etc.
Authoritative Server Final authority, gives exact IP of the domain.
DNS Cache Temporary storage of DNS results for faster lookup next time.

Benefits of DNS

 Easy to remember domain names instead of complex IPs.

 Faster access due to caching.
 Central control but distributed structure.
  Allows load balancing, security filters, and redundancy.

Extra questions
1) What are the flavours of the Internet of Things (IoT)?

The “flavours” of IoT refer to the different categories or applications where IoT is used.
These are:

1. Consumer IoT:
  Devices used by individuals in daily life.
 Examples:
o Smart homes: smart lights, smart thermostats (like Nest)
o Wearables: fitness trackers (Fitbit), smartwatches (Apple Watch)
o Voice assistants: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant

2. Industrial IoT (IIoT):

 Used in manufacturing, logistics, energy, and other industrial fields.

 Features: Real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, remote control of
machinery.
 Examples: Sensors in factories, smart meters in electricity grids.

3. Commercial IoT:

 Applied in business settings such as retail, healthcare, and banking.

 Examples:
o Smart shelves in stores (track product availability)
o Healthcare devices for patient monitoring
o Smart ATMs or kiosks

4. Infrastructure IoT:

 Large-scale systems in urban development and public services.

 Examples:
o Smart traffic lights
o Pollution sensors in smart cities
o Smart parking systems

5. Military IoT (IoMT):

 Used in defense and military operations.

 Examples:
o Drones for surveillance
o Smart uniforms and helmets
o Weapon tracking systems

2) Write an equation of the “Internet” of “Things”. And explain the purpose

of IoT.

IoT Equation:

IoT = Physical Things + Sensors + Connectivity (Internet) + Data + Intelligence

This equation shows how physical objects can be made “smart” by:

 Adding sensors (to collect data)

  Connecting to the internet (to transmit data)
 Using cloud or AI (to process and act on the data)

Purpose of IoT:

1. Connectivity of Things: To connect everyday physical devices (like lights, fridges,

cars) to the internet.
2. Automation: Enables devices to operate automatically based on data (e.g., smart AC
turns on when room gets hot).
3. Monitoring & Control: Allows users to monitor and control devices remotely via
smartphones or apps.
4. Data Collection & Analysis: Helps in collecting real-time data that improves
decision-making.
5. Improving Quality of Life: Saves time, energy, and improves efficiency and safety.

Example: A smart fridge that alerts you when milk is about to expire.

3) Explain the technology of the Internet of Things.

OR

Explain how and where IoT fits with the help of the history of technology.

🧠 Technology Behind IoT:

1. Sensors/Actuators:
o Collect physical data (e.g., temperature, motion, humidity)
o Actuators perform actions (e.g., turning on/off appliances)
2. Connectivity:
o Connects devices to networks using Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, 4G/5G,
LoRaWAN, etc.
o Enables data transmission to cloud or edge servers
3. Data Processing:
o Data is processed in the cloud (cloud computing) or near the device (edge
computing)
o AI and machine learning can analyze and make decisions
4. User Interface:
o Users interact through apps, dashboards, or voice commands
o Enables manual or automated control

Where IoT fits in the History of Technology:

 1st Generation: Computers – Basic data processing

 2nd Generation: Internet – Connecting people globally
 3rd Generation: Mobile Technology – Access anytime, anywhere
  4th Generation: IoT – Connecting physical objects for smart behavior

IoT is part of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, enabling automation, intelligence, and
integration in everyday life and industries.

4) What are enchanted objects? Explain with examples how technology has
always been associated with magic.

Enchanted Objects:

 Everyday objects that behave as if they are magical because of embedded sensors,
connectivity, and intelligence.
 They respond to people or situations without direct commands.

Examples of Enchanted Objects:

1. Smart Mirror – Displays weather, news, and your schedule as you brush your teeth.
2. Amazon Echo / Alexa – A device that talks to you, plays music, controls lights, and
answers questions.
3. Nest Thermostat – Learns your routine and adjusts the temperature automatically.

Technology as Magic:

 Famous quote by Arthur C. Clarke: "Any sufficiently advanced technology is

indistinguishable from magic."
 In history:
o Magic mirror (fairy tales) ➡️Smart mirror
o Talking objects in stories ➡️Voice assistants
o Flying carpets ➡️Drones

Conclusion: As technology becomes more intelligent and responsive, it seems magical to us

— just like enchanted objects in myths.

5) Who is making the Internet of Things? (5-Marks)

1. Big Tech Companies:

 Google: Smart home products (Nest Thermostat, Google Home)

 Amazon: Alexa ecosystem for voice control and automation
 Apple: HomeKit framework for connecting smart devices with iPhone
 Microsoft: Azure IoT platform for industrial and enterprise IoT
 Samsung: SmartThings for home automation

2. Industrial Companies:
  GE (General Electric): IIoT for industrial monitoring and optimization
 Siemens: Industrial automation systems
 Bosch: Smart home devices and industrial solutions
 Schneider Electric: Energy management through IoT

3. Startups & Innovators:

 Small companies innovate faster, creating:

o Smart plugs, smart locks, smart health devices
o Examples: Wyze, Ecobee, Tuya

4. Governments & Smart City Initiatives:

 Deploying IoT in public services, transport, safety, waste management

 Example: Barcelona, Singapore use IoT for traffic, energy, pollution control

5. Open Source Developers & Communities:

 Platforms like Arduino, Raspberry Pi allow students, engineers, and hobbyists to

build IoT devices.
 Encourages experimentation and low-cost innovation.