Sensing devices
We begin by focusing on the sensing or input devices. These come in a variety of forms and complexities, from simple thermocouples to advanced video systems. One reason IoT is a large growth area is the fact that these sensing systems have been reduced in size and cost substantially, with advances in semiconductor fabrication and micromachining.
Thermocouples and temperature sensing
Temperature sensors are the most prevalent form of sensor products. They exist just about everywhere. From smart thermostats to IoT cold storage logistics, from refrigerators to industrial machinery, they are prevalent and most likely the first sensing device you will be exposed to in an IoT solution.
Thermocouples
A thermocouple (or TC) is a form of temperature-sensing apparatus that doesn't rely on an excitation signal to operate. Therefore, they produce very small signals (often microvolts in amplitude). Two wires of two different materials meet where a...