Internet of Things (IoT)

What is it?

The Internet of Things began in industrial facilities to automate and streamline the fabrication, assembly and transport of goods by enabling components to communicate with each other over a network throughout the process. With the advent of mobile technology over the past decade, commercial applications are finding their way into people’s lives at an astounding pace. Homes, offices, automobiles, and even wearable devices are beginning to communicate with each other over the backbone of the web creating novel solutions that bring convenience, efficiency and delight to the lives of millions.

The Activity

Participants will use provided Nexus 7 tablets to control and communicate with a number of internet-connected devices, including Phillips Hue lights, WeMo power switches, and Near Field Communication (NFC) labels. The session will begin with a brief introduction to the technologies and environment that will be used during the activities. Each activity will expand in scope and complexity. The final activity will ask participants to design their own solutions based off a range of challenges.

Our goal is to demystify the “Internet of Things” and empower participants to think beyond “canned” technology solutions provided by a single platform or brand. Gaining this hands-on familiarity with a number of internet-connected devices will enable participants to take the next step in creating custom solutions for their homes, classrooms and lives.