How System-on-Chip developments will benefit consumer IoT

New developments in System-on-Chip (SoC) devices — which provide optimal energy and connectivity characteristics and sensor integration — are expected to gain momentum in the market. Essentially, SoC is an integrated circuit that includes all components, such as a central processing unit, memory, and others, on a single microchip.

Although these first-generation chips are already available, optimization will require more work and research before these devices can perform all of the functions required for success. However, progress is occurring fairly rapidly. For example, wireless and non-segregated circuits can now facilitate self-powered sensor nodes, which are simple to deploy without the requirement for power or signal wirework.

Additionally, a new collection of sensors based on micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) technology is swiftly undergoing developed to facilitate the Internet-of-Things (IoT) applications relating to motion and image sensing. MEMS involves microscopic devices and, particularly, the technology of moving parts. In one application, engineers are working to better accommodate those that use wearables or smartphones to measure or monitor current conditions (such as altitude, humidity, or temperature) and health markers (such as heart rate, steps, calorie intake, etc.).

Through a network of interconnection (to devices, such as smartphones or wearables), IoT allows for the exchange of data and information. The key to an effective exchange of this data, however, is adequate, real-time connectivity. For engineers, this means awareness of several related considerations, such as communications standards, data etiquette (for sharing information), and private area wireless web networks. There are also practical points to consider related to design, such as low-power functionality, which is ideally suited for sensors.

IoT applications typically require a single chip in an adequate form factor, with low-power dissipation, for battery-operated gadgets. What’s more: the IoT-connected sensors must recognize pertinent data, as well as calculate and store it, using minimal form factors and low-energy specifications. Such requirements are key for SoCs with GPUs (graphics processing units), embedded cores, and integrated wireless connectivity — all provided in a single device.

Another key feature of these devices is asynchronous data transportation, meaning the data is in one self-contained unit. This typically decreases the cost of the equipment and infrastructure. However, it also requires security that deters tampering with the transmitted data. This means consideration of the Open Systems Interconnection (ISO-OSI) mode. Though working closer to the physical (PHY) layer will be ideal in terms of cost, carbon dioxide emissions, and power.

The growth of IoT in India
Greater adoption of IoT in India depends on several factors, including the cost of connectivity and availability of IoT-enabled products. There are also other critical considerations, such as insufficient security and secrecy protection for user data, the absence of consistent standards, and technological constraints, which affect the functionality of the IoT assessment chain.

A demand for uniformity across all IoT-enabled devices is one suggestion but nearly impossible in all markets. This would require increased and reliable connectivity between devices, practices, and services using one set of protocols; real-time observation and tracking of co-operative systems; automated processes that work across multiple segments; established safety and data-protection protocols.

However, such challenges are surmountable if regulators and electronics industry professionals are prepared to take the initiative and accountability to resolve them.

Overall, the IoT market in India is predicted to grow at a CAGR of more than 28 percent between 2015 and 2020. The Internet-of-Things has offered the country diverse workforce opportunities and costs (for those businesses implementing the technology for increased operational effectiveness). The most popular markets for IoT adoption in India include consumer electronics, BFSI, automotive and transportation, home and construction, energy and conveniences, retail, supply chain, and logistics areas, and manufacturing.

The industrial IoT market in India, which currently accounts for 60 percent for the total business. It will require a combination of appliances or devices with networked sensors and quick-access data for effective operations.

Although production is at an early stage in India, industrial applications of IoT in manufacturing, logistics, and automotive and transportation are expected to drive IoT revenues by 2020. Influential Indian IT corporations are venturing on new digital technologies, which include artificial intelligence, machine learning, and IoT (including related analytics), to broaden revenue streams, keep up with consumer demands, and accelerate manufacturing in the country.

Government-mandated projects, such as smart cities and grids, and intelligent transportation, are expected to develop and test the requirements and provide businesses with revenue-generating IoT opportunities. But complete adoption of the IoT in India may need customized technology solutions. As per a recently conducted survey, the low-power extensive area network (LPWAN) innovations offer an ideal solution for smart cities in the country.