The Internet of Things Opens Up a World of New Possibilities and Opportunities to Czech Companies

What Does the “Internet of Things” Even Mean?

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of devices equipped with sensors and communication modules that collect a variety of data, transmit it for processing, or make independent decision based upon it. Unlike a conventional Internet connection, this includes not only computers and phones but an “invisible” connection of many common objects, from thermostats to production lines to streetlamps. The key is that these devices work independently and respond smartly according to current conditions.

Across corporate environments, IoT is used to connect production lines, machines, sensors, vehicles, security features, and specialised devices. The result? Lower costs, higher efficiency, and faster responses to operational situations.

How Device-to-Device Communication Works

IoT is based on the transfer of small data packets between hundreds or even thousands of devices. It uses networks designed for low-power consumption and high reliability. The most common of these are low-power networks, collectively referred to as LPWANS (Low Power, Wide Area Networks). Thanks to the low energy consumption and small volume of data transmitted over these networks, many devices can operate on an IoT network at the same time without overloading it or having to replace batteries frequently. The most widely used IoT technologies currently include:

• LoRa (Long Range), a network with a range of up to tens of kilometres at a very low level of energy consumption. LoRa is ideal for sensors in large areas, in nature, and in areas with no available signal, such as basements. They can be quickly deployed where no other transmission infrastructure exists, and connected devices can work for months or years on battery power alone.
• NB-IoT (Narrowband IoT) uses the networks of mobile operators and is a reliable, easily accessible technology, even inside buildings.
• Sigfox operates on a similar principle to that of Wi-Fi but with greater range and security.
• LTE-M and other networks are typically used for specific needs and regional coverage.

IoT in Business and Organisations

For businesses, IoT can mean huge potential for savings and improved efficiency. Manufacturing plants monitor the condition of machines in real time so they can prevent breakdowns and schedule maintenance as needed. In transport, sensors help to optimise routes and save fuel. In warehouses, sensors monitor the conditions and current inventory levels, allowing clients to create automatic orders, for example. In offices, IoT can even reduce energy costs thanks to smart lighting or air conditioning control.

The importance of IoT is also growing in the field of security. To this end, cameras, smoke detectors, access control systems, and other devices communicate with each other and with central surveillance, allowing quick responses to a wide variety of events. IoT is thus making its way into an increasingly wide range of areas:

• Industry—production lines report failures, monitor machine wear and tear, and plan maintenance according to their condition. Sensors optimise energy consumption or monitor the environment in production.
• Logistics and Transport—monitoring the movement of vehicles, measured the load of semi-trailers, monitoring the temperature in warehouses and during transport, or automatic inventory management.
• Agriculture—monitoring the moisture and quality of soil or crops, weather patterns by location, or the movement of livestock. Accurate data saves farmers water, fertilisers, and labour.
• Healthcare and Social Work—remote monitoring of patients’ health, medication storage, or smart bracelets, such as those of the elderly, and much more.
• Energy and Buildings—control over lighting, heating, ventilation, and energy consumption according to the presence of people or current weather conditions.
• Public Administration and Cities—“smart” lamps and waste bins, monitoring air quality, or measuring parking lot capacity.

IoT thus saves companies time, money, and human resources while improving the quality of services.

Challenges and Security Risks

Like with any technology, the Internet of things is not complete risk-free. Connecting a large number of devices also means more room for potential error or external attacks. It is therefore necessary to pay attention to the security of the entire network and individual end devices, to update them regularly, to protect access data, and to manage data so that it cannot be misused. Privacy protection must also be prioritised as part of IoT security. IoT can generate a huge amount of data, not only as a result of the activities of companies and organisations but also based on the behaviour of employees or other cooperating entities.

For this reason, cybersecurity and privacy must be part of every IoT project from the get-go. Furthermore, it is extremely important to choose verified suppliers, set clear rules for the management and maintenance of equipment, and cooperate with cybersecurity experts, and not only within the scope of individual projects.

The Data Boom and Real-time Processing

Although the volume of data transmitted from individual IoT devices usually is not high, the large number of devices, frequency, and relatively short time intervals between transmissions can lead to the creation of large amounts of data over time. At the same time, the information that data brings can often only be obtained by processing it. In addition, rapid response time is often required in control processes, and data must be processed in real time.

In order to prevent the accumulation of data in storage and to achieve the necessary processing speed, IoT solutions often use the same principles as so-called edge computing. This consists of shifting the processing of received data as close as possible to its source, i.e. where it exits the IoT network. Here the data will be processed, possibly in real time. Only the processed results, significantly smaller in volume, are then stored and presented. At the same time, the results are also converted into a recognisable shape, such as a graphic form.

CRA offers a unique integration platform in the Czech Republic, MultiTech IoT Cloud, which processes IoT data according to this exact approach.

No Longer a Thing of Future

IoT is a technology that is already changing the way we live and work. Smart devices save time and money and make work much easier. For businesses, IoT is a powerful tool for increasing efficiency, service quality, and competitive advantage. For business owners and managers, a smart IoT strategy can be an opportunity to stay one step ahead of the competition.

Still, it is true that considerations about the use of IoT should start with a clear strategy, a well-thought-out choice of technologies and providers, and an emphasis on matters of security. The reward for this extra effort will be all the benefits brought by IoT technology.

Through the LoRaWAN infrastructure of CRA, clients can connect devices, sensors, meters, and other elements directly from the field to their own applications or systems. IoT Cloud from CRA is an ideal and universal platform for an integrated IoT multinetwork with enormous synergetic potential. Check it out for yourself and learn more https://www.cra.cz/ict-solutions/iot-internet-of-things

[1] https://www.cra.cz/ict-solutions/iot-internet-of-things/multitech-iot-cloud