Introduction to the Internet of Things and Embedded Systems

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/iot

Introduction

# Course Review: Introduction to the Internet of Things and Embedded Systems on Coursera In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, few concepts are as transformative as the Internet of Things (IoT). It is a dynamic field that is shaping how we interact with devices in daily life, and Coursera’s course titled **Introduction to the Internet of Things and Embedded Systems** provides an excellent foundation for anyone interested in this revolutionary topic. ## Course Overview The explosive growth of IoT is not just a buzzword but a transformative trend that reshapes our world. This course serves as the first step in a broader specialization, focusing on the critical aspects of IoT systems and their implications for society. From the essential components of IoT devices to future trends, participants will gain insights into design considerations, constraints, and the vital bridging between physical environments and digital devices. ### Key Features: 1. **Definitions and Trends**: The course begins by unpacking what IoT truly means, diving into the trends that have facilitated its rise and its implications for modern design. 2. **Embedded Systems**: Participants will explore how IoT devices are designed, focusing on embedded systems. This module explains how these devices function seamlessly within their environments, enhancing usability without the burdens of complex operations. 3. **Hardware and Software Integration**: Understanding how both hardware and software work together is key to IoT design. This course offers insights into the roles of microcontrollers, sensors, and actuators which allow devices to interact with the physical world. 4. **Networking Principles**: Networking is a core component of IoT, allowing devices to communicate with one another and with centralized servers. The course introduces essential Internet protocols and the concept of Mobile Ad Hoc Networks (MANETs), preparing students for real-world applications and challenges. ## Syllabus Breakdown ### What Is the Internet of Things (IoT)? Understanding the essence of IoT is critical, and the course does a remarkable job of laying this groundwork. Participants learn about the broader context surrounding IoT, including historical perspectives, technological enabling factors, and societal impacts. ### Embedded Systems In this module, the focus shifts to embedded systems, which form the backbone of IoT devices. The course provides clarity on how these systems integrate into everyday devices, maintaining user-friendliness while embedding complex functionalities. ### Hardware and Software An exploration of both hardware and software components bridges theoretical knowledge with practical insights. Knowledge about microcontrollers and the role of operating systems in IoT devices deepens learners' comprehension of design principles and operational functionality. ### Networking and the Internet Finally, the networking module equips students with the knowledge to understand how IoT devices communicate. The course tackles fundamental networking concepts, which form the bedrock for future innovations in IoT connectivity. ## Why You Should Take This Course This course is highly recommended for beginners and professionals alike who want to understand the ever-growing field of IoT. Whether you are a student seeking foundational knowledge or a working professional aiming to pivot into IoT, this course offers valuable insights that are equally applicable in academia and industry. ### Benefits of the Course: - **Comprehensive Curriculum**: The course structure thoughtfully progresses from basic definitions to intricate networking concepts ensuring you have a rounded understanding by the end. - **Flexible Learning**: Hosted on Coursera, the course allows for self-paced learning, enabling you to balance your educational pursuits with other commitments. - **Expert Instruction**: The material is presented by knowledgeable instructors, providing industry-relevant information and real-world applications. ### Conclusion The **Introduction to the Internet of Things and Embedded Systems** course on Coursera serves as an invaluable resource in today’s tech-driven world. With its comprehensive curriculum, practical insights, and expert guidance, anyone from enthusiastic novices to seasoned professionals will benefit immensely. If you’re looking to understand how IoT is reshaping our interactions and the technology around us, this course is your gateway to a promising future in this innovative field. Don't miss the opportunity to stay ahead in the digital revolution!

Syllabus

What Is the Internet of Things (IoT)?

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a popular buzzword right now, but unlike many fads which have come and gone, the Internet of Things describes an important trend which is having lasting effects on society at large. The term itself, “Internet of Things”, is used to mean a variety of ideas, depending on the motivation and background of the speaker. This course will start by providing a definition of the term. We will talk about how various trends have enabled the Internet of Things, and how it changes the way design is performed. We will also discuss some of the ramifications that IoT is having on society today.

In Module 1, we introduced the concept of the Internet of Things at a high level, defining the term and outlining its implications. In this module we explore some of the details involved in the design and implementation of IoT devices. Unlike traditional computer-based systems, IoT devices are “embedded” within other devices in order to provide enhanced functionality without exposing the user to the complexities of a computer. The users interact with the device in a natural way, similar to their interactions with any other objects in the world. In this way, an embedded system has an interface that conforms to the expectations and needs of the users. Establishing a natural interface requires that the embedded system interface with the physical world directly through sensors, which read the state of the world, and actuators, which change the state of the world. In this module we will discuss the structure of embedded systems and describe these interactions with the physical world.

IoT devices are implemented using both hardware and software components. Dedicated hardware components are used to implement the interface with the physical world, and to perform tasks which are more computationally complex. Microcontrollers are used to execute software that interprets inputs and controls the system. This module discusses the roles of both the hardware and software components in the system. The functions of common hardware components are described and the interface between the software and hardware through the microcontroller is explained. IoT devices often use an operating system to support the interaction between the software and the microcontroller. We will define the role of an operating system in an IoT device and how an IoT operating system differs from a standard one.

An important aspect of the Internet of Things is that devices are networked in some way, and often connected to the Internet. Networking enables devices to communicate with other IoT devices and larger cloud-based servers. IoT devices can often be thought of as small parts of a much larger collective system which includes large servers based in the cloud. This module will introduce the basics of networking and the Internet protocol in particular. Eventually, most IoT devices are connected to the Internet, so understanding the protocols associated with the Internet is important to the design of IoT devices. We will also introduce the concept of a Mobile Ad Hoc Network, or MANET, which describes small, local networks of IoT devices.