What does IoT mean?

The Internet of things (IoT) is the network of physical devices, vehicles, home appliances and other items embedded with electronics, software, sensors, actuators, and network connectivity which enables these objects to connect and exchange data. Each thing is uniquely identifiable through its embedded computing system but is able to inter-operate within the existing Internet infrastructure.

You may already be familiar with smart phones, smart meters and other smart devices, but they all use the Internet of Things to communicate.

At its core, IoT is simple: it’s about connecting devices over the internet, letting them talk to us, applications and each other.

Why does it matter?

There is a reason. All that data is information that can be measured and then managed. Where it’s most common, in the UK at least, is home heating and energy use. They have clever functions that let you turn on heating remotely, set it to turn down the temperature if it’s a sunny day, or even turn off when there’s no-one home. Smart watch devices that monitor your heart rate and activity levels. There are also many applications available to Commercial sectors, such as monitoring fridge temperatures in the Retail sector, locating assets such as Airport ground support equipment, construction company skips and much much more.

Who are WND and Sigfox?

RE-Tech UK are channel partners with WND UK and Sigfox and they provide LPWA IoT coverage of the UK. By using a secure, low frequency band width radio network this means the signal can travel further and can penetrate buildings and structures that traditional and expensive GPS signals can struggle with. Because the signal from the device travels further, there is always a base station “listening” which means that “jamming” devices are practically ineffective as there is almost always a base station within range. Ideal for stolen vehicle or asset recovery!