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Unit 1 - Introduction To IoT (Internet of Things)

The document provides an introduction to the Internet of Things (IoT), defining it as the connection of physical devices to the internet for data exchange. It outlines the characteristics, evolution, trends, and applications of IoT across various domains such as smart cities, healthcare, industry, and agriculture. Additionally, it details IoT architecture, communication protocols, and the role of sensors in different applications.

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Suresh Rawat
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
28 views35 pages

Unit 1 - Introduction To IoT (Internet of Things)

The document provides an introduction to the Internet of Things (IoT), defining it as the connection of physical devices to the internet for data exchange. It outlines the characteristics, evolution, trends, and applications of IoT across various domains such as smart cities, healthcare, industry, and agriculture. Additionally, it details IoT architecture, communication protocols, and the role of sensors in different applications.

Uploaded by

Suresh Rawat
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Unit 1: Introduction to IoT (Internet of Things)

1.1 Overview of IoT

Definition of IoT

IoT (Internet of Things) means connecting physical devices to the internet so they can
collect, send, and receive data. These devices can be everyday objects like a fan, refrigerator,
watch, or light bulb — if they can talk to each other using the internet, they are part of IoT.

Example: A smart bulb can be turned on or off using your mobile phone — this is
IoT.

Characteristics of IoT

Here are the main features (characteristics) of IoT:

1.​ Connectivity​
Devices are connected to the internet and to each other.
2.​ Sensing​
IoT devices use sensors to collect information like temperature, motion, light, etc.
3.​ Data​
Devices collect and share real-time data.
4.​ Automation​
Some IoT systems can make decisions on their own using data (like turning on lights
when it’s dark).
5.​ Remote Access​
Users can control devices from anywhere using mobile phones or computers.

1.2 IoT Evolution and Trends

IoT Evolution (How IoT has grown over time):

1.​ Past: In the beginning, only computers and phones were connected to the internet.
2.​ Present: Now, many other devices (TVs, watches, cars, machines) are connected to the
internet.
3.​ Future: In the future, more smart devices will be used everywhere — homes, schools,
hospitals, farms, etc.

Trends in IoT:
Here are some current trends in IoT:

●​ Smart homes – Using smart TVs, smart speakers (like Alexa), smart lights.
●​ Wearable tech – Smartwatches and fitness bands.
●​ AI + IoT (AIoT) – Using Artificial Intelligence with IoT to make better decisions.
●​ 5G Networks – Faster internet helps IoT devices work quicker and better.
●​ Industrial IoT (IIoT) – Machines in factories using IoT to improve work.

1.3 Applications of IoT in Various Domains

IoT is used in many areas. Let’s see a few important ones:

1. Smart Cities

IoT makes cities smarter and safer.

●​ Smart traffic signals


●​ Smart parking systems
●​ Waste management (smart dustbins)
●​ Street lights that save energy

2. Healthcare

IoT helps in better health care.

●​ Fitness trackers and smartwatches


●​ Remote patient monitoring (doctors can check patients from far)
●​ Smart beds in hospitals
●​ Medicine reminders

3. Industry

IoT helps factories work more efficiently.

●​ Machines with sensors detect problems early


●​ Automation of work (robots, conveyor belts)
●​ Saving energy
●​ Monitoring worker safety

4. Agriculture

IoT helps farmers grow better crops.

●​ Sensors to check soil moisture and temperature


●​ Smart irrigation (watering plants only when needed)
●​ Drones to monitor fields
●​ Livestock monitoring (tracking animal health)

Sensors Used in IoT Applications

1. Smart Cities
Sensor Use

Temperature To monitor weather and control air conditioning systems.


Sensor

Air Quality Sensor To detect pollution levels in the air.

Motion Sensor For automatic street lights and security systems.

Camera Sensor For traffic monitoring and public safety (CCTV).

Parking Sensor To detect available parking spaces.

Noise Sensor To monitor noise pollution in different areas.

Water Level Sensor To prevent flooding in city drainage systems.

2. Healthcare
Sensor Use

Heart Rate Sensor To measure the heartbeat (in smartwatches or health


monitors).

Temperature Sensor To check body temperature.

Pulse Oximeter To measure oxygen level in the blood.


Sensor

Blood Pressure To monitor blood pressure.


Sensor

Glucose Sensor To check sugar level in diabetic patients.


ECG Sensor To monitor heart signals.

Accelerometer To detect movement or falls in elderly patients.

3. Industry
Sensor Use

Temperature To control machines and prevent overheating.


Sensor

Gas Sensor To detect gas leaks in factories.

Proximity Sensor To detect the presence of nearby objects (used in


automation).

Vibration Sensor To check machine vibrations and detect faults.

Pressure Sensor To monitor fluid or air pressure in pipes and tanks.

Infrared Sensor Used in robots and for measuring heat.

Smoke Sensor To detect fire or smoke.

4. Agriculture
Sensor Use

Soil Moisture To check water level in the soil for irrigation.


Sensor

Temperature Sensor To monitor crop environment.

Humidity Sensor To measure moisture in the air.

Rain Sensor To detect rainfall and manage irrigation.

Light Sensor (LDR) To measure sunlight for crops.

pH Sensor To check the acidity of the soil.

Camera Sensor To monitor crops and detect diseases using


drones.
Unit 2: IoT Architecture and
Communication Protocols

2.1 IoT Architecture


The architecture of IoT describes how an IoT system is structured — what parts it has and how
they work together.​
It mainly has three layers:

1. Device Layer (also called Perception Layer)

●​ It includes the physical devices (sensors, actuators, and smart gadgets).


●​ These devices collect data (like temperature, motion, light) or perform actions.
●​ Example: A temperature sensor measuring room temperature.

2. Network Layer

●​ It transfers the data collected by devices to other devices, servers, or cloud.


●​ It uses the Internet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or mobile networks (4G, 5G).
●​ Example: Wi-Fi sends temperature data to the cloud.

3. Cloud Layer (also called Application Layer)

●​ It stores, processes, and analyzes the data received.


●​ It can make decisions, display data on apps, or send commands back to devices.
●​ Example: Cloud saves temperature data and shows it in a mobile app.

2.2 IoT Reference Models


There are different models to explain IoT structure. The two main ones are:

1. 4-Layer IoT Reference Model


Layer Function
Perception Layer Senses the environment using sensors.

Network Layer Sends data to cloud/storage using networks.

Service Layer Processes the data and offers services (like alert,
report).

Application Layer User-facing apps (mobile app, web dashboard).

Simple View:​
Devices → Network → Processing → App for users.

1. Perception Layer (Sensing Layer)


●​ This is the first layer of the IoT system.
●​ It includes all the physical devices such as sensors and actuators.
●​ Main job: Sense or collect data from the environment like temperature, humidity,
motion, etc.
●​ Devices in this layer can also perform actions, like turning ON a fan or opening a door.

🔹 Example:
●​ A temperature sensor measuring room temperature.
●​ A camera capturing a live video feed.

2. Network Layer
●​ This is the second layer.
●​ Main job: Transfer data collected by the perception layer to other devices, cloud
servers, or storage centers.
●​ It uses communication technologies like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 4G, 5G, Zigbee etc.

🔹 Example:
●​ Sending temperature data from a sensor to a cloud server over Wi-Fi.

3. Service Layer
●​ This is the third layer.
●​ Main job: Process the received data and provide useful services based on it.
●​ It decides what action needs to be taken based on the data.
●​ It may generate alerts, reports, control signals, etc.

🔹 Example:
●​ Processing temperature data and sending an alert if the temperature is too high.
●​ Storing data for future reports.

4. Application Layer
●​ This is the topmost (fourth) layer.
●​ Main job: Provide user-facing applications that people interact with.
●​ Converts the processed data into useful information shown through apps, dashboards,
or websites.

🔹 Example:
●​ A mobile app showing live temperature.
●​ A web dashboard showing the history of room temperatures.

✅ Summary Table:
Layer Function

Perception Layer Senses the environment using sensors.

Network Layer Transfers data using networks.

Service Layer Processes data and offers services.

Application Layer Provides applications for user


interaction.

2. 7-Layer IoT Reference Model

More detailed than 4 layers. The 7 layers are:

Layer Function

Perception Layer Collects data from environment.

Network Layer Transfers data.

Middleware Layer Stores, processes, and manages data.

Application Layer Provides specific applications to users (e.g., smart home


app).

Business Layer Manages business models, profits, goals.

Security Layer Protects data, devices, and systems.

Management Layer Controls and manages devices and networks.


1. Perception Layer
●​ This is the first layer.
●​ It includes devices like sensors and actuators.
●​ Main job: Collect data from the environment (e.g.,
temperature, light, motion).
●​ It senses real-world information and converts it into
digital signals.

🔹 Example:
●​ A smart home temperature sensor measuring room
heat.

2. Network Layer
●​ This is the second layer.
●​ Main job: Transfer the collected data from devices
to cloud servers, apps, or storage systems.
●​ Uses communication technologies like Wi-Fi,
Bluetooth, Zigbee, 4G/5G, Ethernet.

🔹 Example:
●​ Sending data from a sensor to a cloud platform using
Wi-Fi.

3. Middleware Layer
●​ This is the third layer.
●​ Main job: Store, process, and manage data coming
from devices.
●​ It acts like a bridge between hardware (devices) and
software (apps).
●​ It may also make decisions based on processed data.

🔹 Example:
●​ A cloud server storing temperature readings and
processing them to find the average temperature.

4. Application Layer
●​ This is the fourth layer.
●​ Main job: Provide specific applications to users
based on the processed data.
●​ Apps can show data, give alerts, or control devices.

🔹 Example:
●​ A smart home app showing the temperature and
letting users turn the air conditioner ON or OFF.

5. Business Layer
●​ This is the fifth layer.
●​ Main job: Manage business goals, models, and
profits based on IoT data and services.
●​ It analyzes how IoT technology can help businesses
grow or save costs.

🔹 Example:
●​ A company using smart farming IoT data to increase
crop production and profits.

6. Security Layer
●​ This is the sixth layer.
●​ Main job: Protect data, devices, and networks from
attacks or misuse.
●​ It ensures data privacy, device authentication, and
safe communication.
🔹 Example:
●​ Using encryption to protect user data sent from a
smart watch to a server.

7. Management Layer
●​ This is the seventh (top) layer.
●​ Main job: Control and manage all devices,
applications, and networks.
●​ It handles device updates, monitoring, error handling,
and optimization.

🔹 Example:
●​ An IoT platform automatically updating the software
of smart home devices.

Simple View:​
More focus on business, security, and management besides just devices and networks.

7-Layer IoT Reference Model (Cisco


Model)
This 7-layer model explains how IoT data is generated, moved, processed, stored, and finally
used for decision-making and collaboration.​
Each level handles a special function, starting from physical devices to business collaboration.

1. Level 1: Physical Devices and Controllers


●​ This is the first layer.
●​ It includes all sensors, actuators, smart devices, and controllers.
●​ Main job: Collect raw data from the physical world or perform actions.
🔹 Example:
●​ A temperature sensor, smart watch, or a robot arm.

2. Level 2: Connectivity
●​ This layer provides the communication network.
●​ Main job: Transfer data from devices to other parts of the system.
●​ Uses technologies like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Zigbee, 4G/5G.

🔹 Example:
●​ A smart bulb connecting to a home router via Wi-Fi.

3. Level 3: Edge (Fog) Computing


●​ Data is processed near the source instead of sending everything to the cloud.
●​ Main job: Quick processing at the "edge" to reduce delay and network load.
●​ Fog computing happens between devices and cloud.

🔹 Example:
●​ A CCTV camera analyzing video at a local server to detect motion.

4. Level 4: Data Accumulation


●​ Main job: Collect and store large amounts of data.
●​ It manages Data in Motion (while traveling) and Data at Rest (stored data).

🔹 Example:
●​ A cloud database collecting all temperature readings from sensors over days.

5. Level 5: Data Abstraction


●​ Main job: Organize and filter the accumulated data to make it meaningful.
●​ It hides complex raw data and shows useful insights.

🔹 Example:
●​ Showing "average room temperature per day" instead of thousands of raw temperature
readings.

6. Level 6: Application
●​ This is where user applications are built on top of data and insights.
●​ Main job: Present information and allow users to interact with IoT systems.

🔹 Example:
●​ A smart home app showing all sensor readings and letting users control devices.

7. Level 7: Collaboration and Processes


●​ This is the topmost layer.
●​ Main job: Enable decision-making, automation, and collaboration based on IoT data.
●​ Combines people, process, and technology to make smart actions.

🔹 Example:
●​ A smart city system where traffic lights automatically adjust based on real-time traffic
data.

✅ Summary Table:
Level Function

Level 1: Physical Devices and Collect raw data or perform actions.


Controllers
Level 2: Connectivity Transfer data across the network.

Level 3: Edge (Fog) Computing Process data near the device to reduce delay.

Level 4: Data Accumulation Collect and store data (Data at Rest and Data in
Motion).

Level 5: Data Abstraction Organize and filter data into useful information.

Level 6: Application Provide user-facing apps.

Level 7: Collaboration and Enable automation, decision-making, and


Processes teamwork.
2.3 Communication Models
Communication models tell us how devices talk to each other in IoT systems.

1. Request-Response Model
●​ One device sends a request, and the other sends back a response.
●​ Like asking a question and getting an answer.
●​ Example:
○​ You request temperature from a sensor → the sensor sends temperature data
back.

2. Publish-Subscribe Model

●​ Devices publish data to a central system (called a broker), and others subscribe to get
updates.
●​ No direct asking; updates come automatically.
●​ Example:
○​ A sensor publishes temperature data to a server → your mobile app subscribes
to receive live updates.

2.4 IoT Protocols


Protocols are rules that decide how data is sent and received.​
Here are the important IoT protocols:

MQTT (Message Queuing Telemetry


Transport)
Introduction​
MQTT is a lightweight communication protocol. This means it is small, fast, and does not use
much internet data or power. It is specially made for devices like sensors, smart machines, and
IoT devices that have limited internet speed or battery power.

Working Model: Publish-Subscribe

●​ MQTT works using the Publish-Subscribe model.


●​ In this model, there are three main parts:
1.​ Publisher – This is the device that sends data. (Example: Soil moisture sensor)
2.​ Subscriber – This is the device that receives data. (Example: Farmer’s mobile
app)
3.​ Broker – This is a server that manages all the messages between Publishers
and Subscribers.
How it works:

●​ The Publisher sends (publishes) data to the Broker.


●​ The Subscriber tells the Broker what data it wants to receive.
●​ The Broker sends the data from the Publisher to the Subscriber.

In this way, devices do not send data directly to each other. They only talk to the Broker. This
makes communication easier and faster.

Why MQTT is Useful

●​ It uses very little internet data.


●​ It needs very little battery power.
●​ It can work well even if the internet is slow or unstable.
●​ It is simple and easy to use for small devices.

Example: Smart Agriculture

In farming, smart sensors are placed in the soil to measure moisture levels (how wet or dry the
soil is).

●​ The soil moisture sensors act as Publishers.


●​ They send the moisture data to a Broker using MQTT.
●​ A mobile app on the farmer’s phone acts as a Subscriber.
●​ The app receives the moisture data and shows if the soil needs more water.

Because the sensor uses little data and energy, it can work for a long time without needing
much internet or battery.
Keywords: Broker, Publisher, Subscriber.

CoAP (Constrained Application Protocol)


Introduction​
CoAP is a lightweight communication protocol designed mainly for small, simple, and
low-power devices. It is used in the Internet of Things (IoT) where devices have limited
memory, limited internet, and limited battery power.

It works in a similar way to HTTP (which is used on websites), but CoAP is much lighter and
faster. This makes it perfect for tiny devices like sensors and smart meters.

Working Model: Request-Response

●​ CoAP follows the Request-Response model, just like HTTP.


●​ In this model, there are two main parts:
1.​ Client – This device sends a request asking for some information or to perform
an action.​
(Example: A mobile app asking for the temperature.)
2.​ Server – This device responds with the requested information or does the
required task.​
(Example: A temperature sensor sending the current temperature.)

How it works:

●​ The Client sends a request message to the Server.


●​ The Server sends back a response message.
●​ Communication is usually done over UDP (User Datagram Protocol) instead of TCP,
making it faster and lighter.

Why CoAP is Useful

●​ It is very small and easy to use for simple devices.


●​ It uses less internet data and less battery.
●​ It can work in networks where devices are slow or not very powerful.
●​ It can be used easily with RESTful services (similar to web services).
Example: Smart Home

Imagine you have a smart light bulb in your home.

●​ You use a mobile app to turn the light on.


●​ The app acts as the Client and sends a request using CoAP: "Turn on the light."
●​ The smart bulb acts as the Server and sends a response: "Light is now ON."
●​ Because CoAP is lightweight, this happens quickly and without using much internet or
power.

Conclusion

CoAP is an excellent protocol for small, low-power IoT devices. It provides a simple and
efficient way for devices to communicate with each other, using very little resources. It is
often used in smart homes, healthcare devices, environment monitoring, and many other
IoT areas.
●​ Example:​
A tiny temperature sensor in a smart home system.

HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol)


Introduction​
HTTP is the standard protocol used for communication between websites and browsers (like
Chrome, Firefox, etc.). It is one of the most common ways computers and devices talk to each
other over the internet.

Although HTTP is heavier compared to MQTT and CoAP, it is easy to use and understand.
Many IoT devices also use HTTP because it works very well with web applications.

Working Model: Request-Response

●​ HTTP follows the Request-Response model.


●​ There are two main parts:
1.​ Client – This is the device (like a mobile app or browser) that sends a request
for information or to perform some action.
2.​ Server – This is the device (like a website or IoT device) that sends back a
response with the requested information or performs the action.

How it works:

●​ The Client sends an HTTP Request to the Server (for example, to get a webpage or
turn a device ON).
●​ The Server processes the request and sends an HTTP Response (like sending back
the webpage or confirming that the device is ON).

Why HTTP is Useful

●​ It is very easy to implement.


●​ It is already supported by many devices and networks.
●​ It is well understood by developers.
●​ It works great with web browsers and web apps.

However, compared to MQTT and CoAP, HTTP uses more internet data and more battery. It
is heavier because it carries more information in each request and response.
Example: IoT Devices Controlled by Web Apps

Imagine you have smart lights in your home.

●​ You open a website on your phone that shows the lights.


●​ You click a button on the website to turn the light ON.
●​ The website (Client) sends an HTTP Request to the smart light (Server).
●​ The smart light turns ON and sends back an HTTP Response saying "Light is ON".

This simple process is possible because HTTP can connect websites and IoT devices easily.

Conclusion

HTTP is the backbone of the World Wide Web and is also used in many IoT applications.
Even though it is heavierthan MQTT and CoAP, it is simple, powerful, and very commonly
used. It is perfect for IoT projects where internet speed and battery life are not a big
problem, but easy control using web apps is important.

●​

WebSocket
Introduction​
WebSocket is a communication protocol that allows a two-way (full-duplex) connection
between a client (like a mobile app or browser) and a server.​
Once a WebSocket connection is made, both the client and server can send messages to
each other anytime, without needing to ask for permission again and again.
This is different from HTTP, where the client must always request first, and the server just
responds.

How WebSocket Works

●​ At the beginning, the client sends a handshake request to the server (using HTTP).
●​ If the server accepts, a WebSocket connection is established.
●​ After that, both client and server can freely send messages to each other whenever
needed.
●​ The connection stays open until either side decides to close it.

This makes WebSocket fast, interactive, and real-time.

Why WebSocket is Useful

●​ Two-way communication: Both sides can talk anytime.


●​ Real-time updates: No need to refresh or send new requests again and again.
●​ Saves internet data and speed: After the first connection, no need for repeated HTTP
requests.
●​ Low delay: Messages are delivered almost instantly.

Example: Live Sensor Monitoring

Imagine you are monitoring air pollution using a sensor.

●​ The sensor is connected to a WebSocket server.


●​ Your mobile app is the client connected through WebSocket.
●​ As soon as pollution levels change, the sensor immediately sends an update to the
app — without waiting for the app to ask.
●​ This way, you get live pollution data without any delay.

Similarly, WebSocket is also used in chat apps, online gaming, stock market apps, and live
sports scores.

Conclusion

WebSocket is perfect when real-time, continuous communication is needed between


devices. It provides a fast, efficient, and interactive way for devices to exchange data,
especially in IoT applications, gaming, live monitoring, and messaging apps.
●​

📚 Summary Table
Topic Key Idea

IoT Architecture Device → Network → Cloud

4-Layer Model Perception → Network → Service → Application

7-Layer Model Adds business, security, management

Request-Respons Ask and reply


e

Publish-Subscribe Auto updates through a broker


MQTT Lightweight, publish-subscribe

CoAP Lightweight, request-response

HTTP Standard web protocol

WebSocket Two-way live communication

1. Request-Response Model
●​ In this model, one device (client) sends a request, and another device (server) sends
back a response.
●​ It is like asking a question and getting an answer.
●​ Mostly used where instant data is needed, but only on demand.
●​ It follows the client-server communication style.

🔹 Example:
●​ A mobile app requests the temperature from a sensor.
●​ The sensor receives the request and sends back the current temperature reading.

🔹 Features:
●​ Simple to understand.
●​ Good for occasional data access.
●​ Not efficient for real-time continuous data.

Figure: Request-Response Model


2. Publish-Subscribe Model
●​ In this model, devices publish data to a central system called a Broker.
●​ Other devices or applications subscribe to the Broker to receive updates.
●​ Devices do not communicate directly; instead, they rely on the Broker.
●​ It is like subscribing to a newspaper — whenever news comes, you get it
automatically.

🔹 Example:
●​ A temperature sensor publishes readings to a server (Broker).
●​ A mobile app subscribes to the Broker and automatically receives live temperature
updates without asking each time.

🔹 Features:
●​ Good for real-time continuous data sharing.
●​ Efficient when multiple devices need the same data.
●​ Reduces the load on devices because the Broker handles the delivery.

Figure: Publish-Subscribe Model

[Sensor] -- Publish --> [Broker] -- Distribute --> [Mobile App]


-- Distribute --> [Dashboard]

●​ The sensor publishes data.

A broker is like a post office for IoT messages.

●​ Devices send their data (like temperature, humidity, etc.) to the broker.
●​ The broker stores the data and sends it to all devices or apps that have asked for it
(subscribers).
●​ Devices don't talk directly to each other — they only talk to the broker.

Example:

●​ A sensor measures temperature and sends it to the broker.


●​ Your mobile app subscribes to the broker.
●​ The broker forwards the temperature data to your app.

In short:

Broker = Middleman that receives, stores, and forwards data.

●​
✅ Summary:
Request-Response Publish-Subscribe

Direct communication between client and Communication through a central Broker.


server.

Data is sent only when requested. Data is automatically sent when


available.

Simple but not good for real-time updates. Best for real-time and multiple receivers.
CHapter 3

3.1 Types of Sensors and Their Characteristics (8 Marks)

Definition:​
A sensor is a device that detects changes in the environment (like temperature, light, motion,
etc.) and sends that information to other devices.

Common Types of Sensors:

1.​ Temperature Sensor


○​ Function: Measures heat or temperature.
○​ Example: LM35, DHT11
○​ Used in: Weather stations, refrigerators, air conditioners.
2.​ Humidity Sensor
○​ Function: Measures moisture or water vapor in the air.
○​ Example: DHT11, DHT22
○​ Used in: Greenhouses, smart homes, weather monitoring.
3.​ Motion Sensor (PIR Sensor)
○​ Function: Detects movement of people or animals.
○​ Example: PIR (Passive Infrared Sensor)
○​ Used in: Security alarms, automatic lights.
4.​ Light Sensor (LDR)
○​ Function: Detects light intensity.
○​ Example: LDR (Light Dependent Resistor)
○​ Used in: Streetlights, solar garden lights.
5.​ Gas Sensor
○​ Function: Detects gases like CO2, smoke, LPG.
○​ Example: MQ series sensors
○​ Used in: Gas leak detectors, air quality monitors.

Characteristics of Sensors:

●​ Accuracy: How close the sensor value is to the actual value.


●​ Sensitivity: Ability to detect small changes.
●​ Range: Minimum to maximum values it can detect.
●​ Response Time: Time taken to react to a change.
●​ Repeatability: Gives same output under same conditions.

3.2 Actuators (8 Marks)


Definition:​
An actuator is a device that performs an action based on a signal (usually from a sensor or
controller). It converts electrical signals into physical movement.

Types of Actuators:

1.​ Relays
○​ Function: Acts like a switch that turns devices ON or OFF.
○​ Used in: Home automation (e.g., turning on fans, lights).
○​ How it works: When electricity flows through it, it creates a magnetic field to
open/close a circuit.
2.​ Motors
○​ Function: Converts electrical energy into motion.
○​ Types:
■​ DC Motor: Spins when power is given; used in robots, toys.
■​ Servo Motor: Rotates to a specific angle; used in robotic arms.
■​ Stepper Motor: Moves in steps; used in 3D printers, CNC machines.
○​ Used in: Fans, robotic systems, conveyor belts.

Key Characteristics of Actuators:

●​ Speed: How fast it moves.


●​ Force: How strong it is.
●​ Precision: How accurate the movement is.
●​ Power: How much energy it consumes.

3.3 Types of Microcontrollers and Embedded Systems in IoT (8 Marks)

Definition:​
An embedded system is a computer system designed to do a specific task. A microcontroller
is the brain of this system – it controls sensors and actuators.

Common Microcontrollers in IoT:

1.​ Arduino

Definition:​
Arduino is an open-source electronics platform based on easy-to-use hardware and
software. It is used to build digital devices and interactive objects that can sense and control
things in the real world.

You will learn pin configuration of the following models:


1.​ Arduino Uno(R3)
2.​ Arduino Mega (R3)
3.​ Arduino Nano
4.​ Arduino Leonardo
5.​ Arduino Due
6.​ LilyPad Arduino
7.​ Arduino Micro
8.​ Arduino Pro Mini

Arduino Uno (R3)


As we discussed we know that Arduino Uno is the most standard board available and probably the
best choice for a beginner. We can directly connect the board to the computer via a USB Cable
which performs the function of supplying the power as well as acting as a serial port.

Image Source: [Link]


Vin: This is the input voltage pin of the Arduino board used to provide input supply from an external
power source.
5V: This pin of the Arduino board is used as a regulated power supply voltage and it is used to give
supply to the board as well as onboard components.

3.3V: This pin of the board is used to provide a supply of 3.3V which is generated from a voltage
regulator on the board

GND: This pin of the board is used to ground the Arduino board.

Reset: This pin of the board is used to reset the microcontroller. It is used to Resets the
microcontroller.

Analog Pins: The pins A0 to A5 are used as an analog input and it is in the range of 0-5V.

Digital Pins: The pins 0 to 13 are used as a digital input or output for the Arduino board.

Serial Pins: These pins are also known as a UART pin. It is used for communication between the
Arduino board and a computer or other devices. The transmitter pin number 1 and receiver pin
number 0 is used to transmit and receive the data resp.

External Interrupt Pins: This pin of the Arduino board is used to produce the External interrupt and
it is done by pin numbers 2 and 3.

PWM Pins: This pins of the board is used to convert the digital signal into an analog by varying the
width of the Pulse. The pin numbers 3,5,6,9,10 and 11 are used as a PWM pin.

SPI Pins: This is the Serial Peripheral Interface pin, it is used to maintain SPI communication with
the help of the SPI library. SPI pins include:

1.​ SS: Pin number 10 is used as a Slave Select


2.​ MOSI: Pin number 11 is used as a Master Out Slave In
3.​ MISO: Pin number 12 is used as a Master In Slave Out
4.​ SCK: Pin number 13 is used as a Serial Clock

LED Pin: The board has an inbuilt LED using digital pin-13. The LED glows only when the digital
pin becomes high.

AREF Pin: This is an analog reference pin of the Arduino board. It is used to provide a reference
voltage from an external power supply.

Main Features of Arduino:

1.​ Microcontroller Board – The main part of Arduino is a microcontroller that acts like the
brain of the system.
2.​ Easy Programming – It is programmed using the Arduino IDE (Integrated
Development Environment), which uses a simple version of C/C++.
3.​ Open Source – Both hardware and software are open source, meaning anyone can use
and modify them.
4.​ Plug and Play – Arduino boards have USB ports for easy connection and power
supply.
5.​ Multiple Pins – It has digital and analog input/output pins to connect sensors, LEDs,
motors, etc.

How Arduino Works:

1.​ Sensors (like temperature or light sensors) collect data.


2.​ Arduino reads this data through its input pins.
3.​ Based on the code uploaded, Arduino processes the data.
4.​ It can control outputs like LEDs, motors, buzzers, etc.

Applications of Arduino in IoT:

●​ Home Automation – Controlling lights, fans, doors automatically.


●​ Smart Farming – Checking soil moisture and watering plants.
●​ Weather Station – Measuring temperature, humidity, and displaying it.
●​ Security Systems – Motion detection using PIR sensors.

Advantages of Arduino:

●​ Low cost and easily available.


●​ Great for beginners and students.
●​ Can be powered using USB, battery, or adapter.
●​ Large online community for support and projects.
○​
2.​ Raspberry Pi

Definition:​
The Raspberry Pi is a small and affordable single-board computer developed in the UK. It is
used for learning programming, building electronics projects, and developing IoT applications.
Main Features of Raspberry Pi:

1.​ Full Computer – It works like a normal computer with a processor, RAM, USB ports,
HDMI, and more.
2.​ Operating System – It runs on Raspberry Pi OS (Linux-based) and supports other
systems like Ubuntu.
3.​ GPIO Pins – It has 40 General Purpose Input/Output (GPIO) pins to connect sensors
and devices.
4.​ Internet Support – Has Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet for internet and network
connections.
5.​ Storage – Uses a microSD card for storing the operating system and files.

Popular Models of Raspberry Pi:

Model Features
Raspb Fast processor, up to 8GB RAM, 2
err micro-HDMI ports.
y
Pi
4

Raspb Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.


err
y
Pi
3

Raspb Very small and cheap version for mini


err projects.
y
Pi
Zer
o

How Raspberry Pi Works:

1.​ The OS is loaded from the microSD card.


2.​ You can connect a monitor, keyboard, and mouse to use it like a desktop.
3.​ You can write programs using Python, Scratch, or C.
4.​ GPIO pins allow it to control sensors and devices, just like Arduino.

Applications of Raspberry Pi in IoT:

●​ Smart Home Systems – Control lights, fans, security cameras.


●​ Weather Monitoring – Collect and display temperature, humidity, etc.
●​ Media Center – Play videos and music using software like Kodi.
●​ Educational Projects – Learn coding, Linux, electronics.

Advantages of Raspberry Pi:


●​ Affordable and compact.
●​ Works as a full computer.
●​ Great for learning coding and Linux.
●​ Supports internet-based IoT applications.
●​ Can multitask and store large programs.

Comparison:
Feature Arduino Raspberry Pi

Type Microcontroller Mini Computer (SBC)

OS No OS Linux-based OS

Use Real-time control Complex tasks (e.g.,


video)

Programming Arduino C/C++ Python, Scratch, etc.

Why used in IoT?

●​ Low power: Good for battery-operated devices.


●​ Small size: Fits in smart gadgets.
●​ Affordable: Good for students and makers.

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