The Ultimate Guide to IoT and Connectivity Device Components


TVs, security cameras, washing machines, lightbulbs, and central heating controls – what do all these things and more have in common? Now equipped with internet capabilities, various household and industrial devices and appliances can “talk” to one another. They all form part of the Internet of Things (IoT) – sharing data, making things easier, and changing the world as we know it. If you think the first digital revolution was seismic, IoT could be even bigger still.

OKdo is here to help you make things happen. No matter what coding experience you have, we supply the tools and inspiration that give you the freedom to come up with new ideas and bring them to life. And that includes devising your own IoT connected devices that answer a question or solve a problem. With a broad range of IoT device components to choose from, why not take a look at the projects you can make possible with our help? You might even surprise yourself.  

What is IoT?

So, what exactly is IoT? In its purest sense, it’s where various devices and appliances – known as ‘things’ – are connected to each other via the internet. Data is collected and shared between them all. And these ‘things’ can communicate without the need for human input.

Internet of Things (IoT) – various devices and appliances – known as ‘things’ – connected to each other via the internet.

All a device needs to join the IoT is to have a sensor that can “feel” the world around them, and it means simple tasks can be controlled remotely or automated (based on the environment).

Some common mainstream examples of IoT devices include smart lightbulbs, thermostats, TVs, ovens, fridges, and watches. In fact, that’s just your household IoT devices, and you can see in this list how almost anything can become IoT-enabled. But it also extends into the wider world to major commercial systems and processes. The best part, perhaps, is that you can build your own IoT connected device. All it takes is some coding know-how and the right components.

That said, let’s take a look at some of those important components that you might need.

Our IoT device components

Antennas

For a lot of IoT connected devices, wireless capabilities are essential. There are often scenarios where a hard-wired connection isn’t possible. Or perhaps you simply don’t want your devices to be limited to one place.

No matter what reasons you have for going wireless, the way to ensure that your device or project can be “contacted” is with a suitable WiFi antenna. You can have all the other IoT device components in place, but no antenna means no wireless communication.  

An antenna allows you to ensure that a device or appliance is connected to the internet. No antenna means no wireless communication.

OKdo has a wide range of IoT antennas, making it easier to find what you’re looking for. You could be working on a small project for your home, or you could be an engineer or developer in need of something that stands up to the demands of real-world commercial use. We supply the high-quality antennas you’ll need – covering various sizes, transmission strengths, and frequency ranges. So, browse through our range of antennas to find out which one fits your project best.

Bluetooth

Of course, wireless data sharing and communications won’t always depend on WiFi coverage. You can get the job done just as effectively with IoT device components that bring Bluetooth technology to your project.

Perfect for linking devices over a shorter range using a dedicated UHF radio frequency, this technology can be especially quick and effective for IoT projects if your WiFi coverage isn’t available.

Bluetooth is a quick and effective way of linking devices over a shorter distance when WiFi coverage is not available.

Our choice of Bluetooth IoT components has all your bases covered. For Bluetooth projects large or small, look no further.

Software-Defined Radio

Are you looking for a reliable and cost-effective communication method for your project? IoT device components known as Software-Defined Radio (SDR) do just that. As the name might suggest, it’s a radio-based system that uses software to control factors such as frequency or modulation.

Its flexibility means you can use SDR receivers for projects as diverse as an amateur home radio setup or complex military and commercial telecommunications.

Software-Defined Radio (SDR) devices are radio-based systems that can control factors such as frequency or modulation. They are suitable for applications such as home, commercial and military telecommunications.

Of course, there’s a choice when it comes to SDR receivers. The Adafruit SDR receiver is one example – a USB-powered aerial that tunes into multiple radio signals when it’s connected to your computer. Or there’s the SDRplay Radio Spectrum Processor for more advanced users in search of SDR that’ll help you create a communications receiver. Each option in our SDR range is of the highest quality – no matter where your project takes you.

Zigbee

Not familiar with Zigbee? Let us introduce you to it. This wireless technology is an alternative option to WiFi and Bluetooth.

Zigbee proves itself to be more than capable if you’re planning a home project that doesn’t require too much bandwidth. Smart sensors are a good example of this, even if your project involves devices from two (or more) manufacturers. Essentially, you can create smaller, personal area networks with low-power digital radios doing the ‘talking’.

Zigbee technology is an alternative connectivity option to WiFi and Bluetooth where a project doesn’t require too much bandwidth. Smart home and commercial automation projects are perfect examples of applications where Zigbee can provide connectivity.

As such, home automation is a big area of potential for this IEEE 802.15.4-based specification. That’s not to say that commercial projects can’t feel the full force of Zigbee’s capabilities. This form of wireless communication can be a perfect solution for smoke or intruder alarm systems, HVAC or other industrial control uses, and even devices used for medical care.

OKdo’s range of Zigbee modules and IoT device components can add an extra dimension to your next project.

Finding the IoT device components you need

IoT connected devices are helping to transform our homes and workspaces in numerous ways. But we’re still learning – even now – about what is possible using the various components and modules. That’s where you come in. With your ideas and invention, you could be working on a project with so many potential benefits. And we can help you make it happen with our range of IoT and connectivity device components.

In need of yet more inspiration? Don’t forget to check out our project hub and explore how you can make the most of your IoT device components. You could be amazed at what’s possible!



We have loads more exciting and insightful projects, getting started guides and blogs about IoT, SBCs, STEM education, and much more. Check them out here:

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