The Internet of Things (IoT) is booming. As it grows, so do its customers’ demands, making IoT hardware design an increasingly complex but crucial consideration.
While the ever-rising number of niche design requirements can be daunting, the fundamentals remain the same. IoT engineers can focus on the key considerations for all devices to ensure their end product is reliable in any context. Here are seven essential elements of IoT hardware design.
Essential Elements of IoT Hardware Design
#1: Data Acquisition and Processing
All IoT devices are, at their core, means of gathering and processing data. Consequently, engineers must consider what information the gadget needs to serve its end use and how it will acquire it.
#2: Data Storage
Relatedly, IoT hardware design must consider how to store data. Many devices rely on cloud servers, as they generate too much information to store locally in a small form factor.
#3: Communication Protocol
Next, IoT devices need a way to send their processed data to other endpoints. This choice is rarely straightforward, as there are dozens of connectivity standards, each with unique benefits and disadvantages.
#4: End-Use Hazards
IoT hardware design should also take implementation-related hazards into account. Many IoT endpoints must withstand environments many electronics don’t, such as the outdoors or heavy industrial facilities.
#5: Interoperability
Compatibility with other IoT devices is another critical design consideration, especially as IoT environments expand.
#6: Energy Requirements
A device’s energy consumption is a more overlooked but important factor, particularly in commercial applications.
#7: Security
IoT hardware design must ensure device security. Cybersecurity has historically been a weak point for the IoT, so more onboard security features help a product stand out.
These Factors Should Drive IoT Hardware Design
IoT hardware design is a complex process. It’s also essential to get it right. IoT engineers must pay attention to these seven considerations to ensure their products work as they should and can compete in today’s market.
Optimizing these design concerns starts with understanding the device’s target market and expected use case. When designers know how and where people will use their IoT systems, they can create hardware that works for them.