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What is the Internet of Things?
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The Internet of Things refers to the interconnection of everyday objects through embedded computer devices and the internet. For example, many kitchen appliances (check out this smart frying pan), cars and medical devices can collect and exchange data using embedded sensors.
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The first internet connected appliance or “smart device” was a Coke machine! In the early 80s, programmers at Carnegie Melon University connected to it over the internet to see if there was a cold coke available.
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Amazon’s smart speaker, the Echo Dot, is the best-selling, most gifted item on Amazon.com. The voice-controlled intelligent personal assistant, Alexa, answers questions, sets timers, plays music and can control lights, fans, thermostats and more with compatible connected devices.
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In November 2015, Carleton University and Cisco Canada announced a $1.8-million grant over nine years to establish a Research Chair in Sensor Technology for the Internet of Things.
Wireless Technology
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The new rule for the future is going to be, “Anything that can be connected, will be connected.” ~Jacob Morgan
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Projections range from more than 24 billion IoT devices by 2020 (4 devices per human on Earth) to more than 100 billion connected devices by 2025 – a lot of devices that will require connectivity!
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Most IoT devices and networks will rely on wireless technology. Some of the concerns with the IoT and wireless tech include, the need for low power consumption, flexibility to modify and grow these networks, and data security (source).
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Carleton Prof. Richard Yu is looking at how to improve 5G Wireless Networks. Yu’s project will complement Carleton’s research in 5G wireless communications technologies as they relate to the Internet of Things, autonomous and connected vehicles, sensor technologies and health care.
Sensors
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The Internet of Things is not just about smart devices. Sensors are tiny innovations that can be attached to all kinds of things, including yogurt cups, mobile devices, automotive systems and even the cement in bridges. Data is captured and sent back into the cloud.
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Dr. Rajan, a Canada Research Chair at Carleton, is looking at various kinds of sensors. This includes ambient environments where the environment itself is sensitive and responsive to the presence of people.
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Carleton’s Mohamed Ibnkahla (Cisco Research Chair in Sensor Technology for the Internet of Things) is looking for ways to use sensors to improve our lives. He lists IT management, health care and education as some examples of relevant applications.
Sensor Technology and Health Engineering Research at Carleton
Carleton is involved in several pilot projects that are helping with the effort to design smart homes that promote independent living for seniors. For example, pressure-sensitive pads placed under bed mattresses can alert seniors to a number of health concerns, from breathing difficulties to bladder infections.
Much of the applied research is rooted in sensor technology and digital signal processing. Read more …
5 Things We Thought You Should Know
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Help getting the most out of your Mobile Device? Carleton.ca/mobileservices is available to assist faculty, staff and departments in managing university-funded cellphones and tablets.
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Congratulations to the ITS Ransomware Warriors who won the 2016 Service Excellence Team award. Frank Zhang celebrated his 10 year service anniversary in March. And Nancy Vaillancourt celebrated 30 years in April.
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Conference: The CANHEIT (Canadian Higher Ed IT) conference is in Kingston from June 13-16. New for this year – poster presentations! You still have time to submit a poster.
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Regular Password Changes: Passwords are a critical part of information and network security at Carleton. All staff and faculty are required to change their passwords every 120 days.
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Carleton Intranet: Since its launch in November 2016, over 65,000 pages have been viewed on the intranet. If you haven’t yet logged in, be sure to check it out!