While many communications technologies can be used to connect sensors and devices to the Internet of Things, a range of wireless technology dominates current use. All the various types of wireless options allow devices to send data to each other and to the internet via TCP/IP networks.
When selecting from the wireless options for your IoT solutions, you’ll want to consider:
• Trade-offs between power, data rate and coverage range
• Interoperability between other wireless standards
• Security and compliance capabilities
Parts that implement systems using 802.11, Bluetooth, GPS, and other wireless protocols are complex devices that integrate the RF frontend, baseband processing/filtering, and digital backend needed for complete system implementation. For example, an 802.11 wireless LAN part has dozens of basic RF components such as mixers, tuners and amplifying transistors.
Wireless Technology Options
IEEE 802.15.4: ZigBee
ZigBee is an open global standard designed to be used in M2M networks. With low latency and a low duty cycle, it doesn’t require a lot of power, allowing products to maximize battery life.
IEEE 802.11: WiFi
WiFi is the best known and most popular wireless technology that runs on the 802.11 standards set forth by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).
IEEE 802.15.1: Bluetooth and BLE
Bluetooth and Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) are used to transfer data over short distances. BLE is supported by most smartphone and computer makers as well as leading operating systems.
IEEE 802.16: WiMax
WiMax stands for Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access. This wireless technology allows data to be transferred at a rate of 30-40 megabits per second.
Interested? Request a demo here.