Throughout parts one and two I discussed the concepts of IoT and (I)IoT, (big) data analytics, data placement, the triggering of workflows and I had a more detailed look at the LPWAN and LTE (cellular) type networks. I also included a cheat sheet where I highlighted 6 of the most common (and upcoming) (I)IoT networks including their main characteristics and features. Today I’d like to focus on the various individual networks mentioned like: Sigfox, LoRa, NB-IOT etc. and talk a bit more about their background and future potential.
All ‘things’ connected, the ‘I’ in the IoT – a closer look. Part two!
In part one of this series I talked about some of the differences between IoT and (I)IoT, while also summing up multiple variables that play an important role when it comes to the network involved. Throughout this post I’d like to zoom in a bit more on (big) data analytics, the triggering of workflows and where our data could, or should reside. Next to that I will highlight some of the most popular (I)IoT network types today with a main focus on LPWAN and LTE (cellular/4G) technologies including some of their main characteristics, pros and cons. And, oh yeah, I’ve also included another potentially helpful cheat sheet, for your convenience – you’ll find it near the end.
All ‘things’ connected, the ‘I’ in the IoT – a closer look. Part one!
While the IoT and (I)IoT are on their way of becoming the new buzzwords in IT, most companies are still struggling to find their place in the grand scheme of things. At least that’s the impression I get when talking to various companies and customers throughout the past couple of months. Everyone wants a piece of the action but it can be hard to figure out where to start and what your role, as a company should, or could be in all this. It’s easier said than done. With such a broad definition of ‘things’ this doesn’t come as a surprise. One thing is for sure though, all these ‘things’, industrial or otherwise need to be connected.
Citrix Octoblu: an Architectural Breakdown
Not that long ago, I wrote a blogpost about IoT regarding some of the things you (might) need to consider when thinking about delivering IoT as a service, from an integrator perspective, for example. Something which often goes beyond the technology involved. If you missed it, you can read about it here. I also briefly mentioned Citrix Octoblu as a potential IoT platform. And, although I am aware that there are literally hundreds of alternatives out there, that’s what I would like to focus on throughout this post–Octoblu. An architectural breakdown if you will. I used an existing Slideshare presentation as reference (link is posted near the end).
IoT use-case: The Connected Cow! Yes, really.
In my role as Technology Officer for the Detron ICT Group I have the privilege of visiting and talking to other companies on an ongoing basis. One company I recently visited was Fujitsu where they showed us, and we talked about their cloud and IoT portfolio. Very interesting and exciting stuff to say the least. While the so-called Connected Cow was only one example of what they do when it comes to combining IoT and clout technologies, it’s a special one for sure and it definitely got my attention.
Defining your IoT strategy – first things first!
Are you, or is your company thinking about offering IoT services to its/your customers? If so, you (or they) have probably noticed that there is a lot to think about and that it goes way beyond the technology and/or tools involved. For most organisations, it requires a different mindset and a curtain degree of resourcefulness as well as creativity — not to be underestimated.