A Starter Guide to Understanding IoT or Internet of Things

Oct 29, 2024 | 0 comments |

Internet of Things (IoT) is an innovative, new technology that is evolving the way facilities operate. Across all industries, IoT connects the physical and digital worlds to improve efficiency and energy savings. This guide will give you an in-depth look at what IoT is and how you can implement it in your business.

Introducing The Internet of Things (IoT)


The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to interconnected devices across a facility and streamlines building operations, and uses data to enhance efficiency. IoT is implemented into devices like sensors and other technologies, then collects data to measure how to best operate the building. IoT gives devices, such as lighting or HVAC, the ability to “talk” to each other without human intervention to perform tasks based on the data it collects.

How IoT Works:

  • Smart Devices: These are physical objects equipped with sensors and computing capabilities. They collect data from their environment (such as temperature or motion) or from users (such as button presses) and send it to other devices or cloud systems.
  • IoT Applications: Software platforms analyze the data collected by IoT devices. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) platforms make informed decisions based on the data.
  • Graphical User Interface (GUI): Most IoT systems come with a user-friendly interface (such as a mobile app) that allows users to monitor and control devices, view data, and adjust settings.

Examples of IoT in Smart Buildings


IoT can be connected to various systems and controls throughout a facility to assist in managing energy and running facility operations more efficiently:

  • Smart Lighting Systems: Advanced lighting controls, such as occupancy sensors, time schedules, or daylighting, can be used throughout buildings to reduce energy consumption. IoT uses real-time data to decide when lighting should be turned on and off.
  • HVAC Control: IoT technology monitors the building’s indoor air quality, temperature, and humidity to adjust the heating and cooling systems. Through this data, HVAC can be adjusted to lower energy usage when the building is not in use.
  • Security Systems: IoT-enabled cameras, door locks, and alarms can detect unusual activities and send real-time alerts to property owners or security personnel.
  • Back Up Power: During emergencies, IoT and smart building controls can seamlessly switch to stand-by generators in the event of power outages. It can even monitor the health of backup batteries and detect when maintenance is needed.
  • Renewable Energy Sources: IoT can work with solar panels or other sustainable energy resources and use them during peak-energy usage times. For example, during the afternoon, when solar panels collect the most sun, smart buildings can use solar energy rather than other sources for electricity.

These innovations not only enhance convenience but also improve energy efficiency, creating a more sustainable environment.

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IoT Use Amongst Different Industries

IoT shows its true potential when used in commercial and industrial facilities, such as factories, office spaces, and more:

  • Manufacturing: IoT can create a safer and more efficient work environment in industrial facilities. Through its data monitoring, it will predict when maintenance is needed on various equipment and help schedule maintenance checks before it breaks down. This reduces unplanned downtime and increases production efficiency.
  • Healthcare: IoT has the potential to transform patient care in hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical facilities. IoT-enabled wearable devices can monitor patient vitals in real-time and be sent to doctors. Smart lighting and HVAC can be used to adjust patient rooms to make them more comfortable.
  • Retail: Retailers use IoT devices such as smart shelves and inventory management systems to track stock levels, reduce theft, and improve their shopping experience. In grocery stores, smart devices can be connected to refrigerators and freezers to monitor the temperatures of frozen foods.
  • Agriculture: IoT sensors monitor soil moisture, weather conditions, and crop health. Farmers can automate irrigation systems and track livestock health, improving yield and reducing labor costs.

Benefits of IoT: Cutting Down Energy Usage and Saving Money

Implementing IoT technology in commercial facilities will lead to serious benefits for all industries. Businesses can establish themselves as energy conscious meanwhile boosting their ROI.

  • Energy Efficiency: By using IoT sensors to detect occupancy throughout the day, data can be used to adjust the settings for lighting and HVAC. By automatically shutting off lights and adjusting temperature during off-peak times, commercial properties can lower energy usage.
  • Remote Monitoring: IoT allows property managers to monitor and track a property’s energy usage from a central, remote location. This helps streamline facility and energy management needs.
  • Predictive Maintenance: Machines and equipment can be monitored by IoT devices to ensure they are functioning properly and get the maintenance they need before serious breakdowns occur. In industrial facilities, this can halt the production of products.

Cost Savings: When energy usage is properly managed and monitored, businesses will notice lower utility bills and an increase in savings.

Did you know we have a Lighting Controls Education Center? If your organization is interested in IoT and Lighting Control Systems we recommend reviewing the Lighting Controls Education Center for an in-depth look into benefits, concerns, categories, and strategies. 

Technology Used in IoT

Several key technologies power IoT systems and make them so effective:

  • Edge Computing: Instead of sending all data to a central cloud for processing, IoT devices equipped with edge computing capabilities can process data locally. This reduces communication delays and improves response times, making devices smarter and more efficient.
  • Cloud Computing: While edge computing handles local data, the cloud allows for large-scale data storage and complex analysis. Cloud computing is essential for managing multiple IoT devices and processing large volumes of data.
  • Machine Learning (ML): ML algorithms enable IoT devices to make intelligent decisions based on the data they collect. For instance, ML can help predict maintenance needs or optimize energy usage based on patterns.
  • Connectivity: IoT devices rely on various forms of connectivity (such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or 5G) to communicate with each other and with central systems. The type of connectivity depends on the specific application and requirements for data transmission.

IoT with Action Services Group

The Internet of Things is a groundbreaking technology that can advance the ways buildings operate. Through its wide array of benefits, like cost and energy savings, IoT is applicable to any industry. Businesses are continuing to embrace the advancement in technology to help run their businesses, improve their workplaces for employees, and increase ROI.

To learn more about implementing IoT technology into your business, contact Action Services Group. As a national provider and installer of lighting controls, we can help you find the perfect lighting system that suits your needs. To speak with one of our lighting control specialists, call 610-558-9773, email [email protected], or schedule a call that fits your needs by clicking the button below.

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