What do you get when you cross a disruptive, low-cost computing platform with an immensely powerful network of internet-connected devices and sensors? Huge potential, that’s what! We’re talking, of course, about the exciting uses of Raspberry Pi when teamed with the Internet of Things (IoT). Here, Hitaltech explores how to blend these technologies to run everything from simple sensors to a full-blown Raspberry Pi IoT server.
What is the Internet of Things (IoT)?
The Internet of Things (IoT) basically refers to all the “things” that are connected to the Internet. These devices and sensors use internet connectivity to collect and transmit data over a network – all without any human intervention. Whether you realise it or not, you’re bound to be using IoT technology in your everyday life if you own any smart devices, such as a smart watch, smart TV, smart appliances or smart speakers.
The IoT has revolutionised various industries and applications, notably building automation. Now, many businesses are realising the power of the IoT through innovative uses of Raspberry Pi. This powerful but cost-effective range of programmable computers – which was originally designed to provide accessible, hands-on programming opportunities for students – is now disrupting traditional IT setups in the business world as it creates an opportunity for rapid prototyping. By being able to prototype at a much faster rate than ever before, manufacturers are able to benefit from a vastly reduced ‘time to market’; meaning your products can be ready for purchase on a much shorter time scale than ever previously considered!
IoT uses of Raspberry Pi
Raspberry Pi computers feature a set of General Purpose Input Output (GPIO) pins that provide connections to external electronic devices and therefore the development of IoT solutions. These GPIO pins can be connected to external sensors using either jumper wires or a ribbon cable. These subsequently connect the Pi to a breadboard (a solder-less, plug-and-play electronics board), enabling various application possibilities.
One such application is a Raspberry Pi IoT server. “With an in-built quadcore processor, Raspberry Pi can serve as the ‘Internet Gateway’ for IoT devices”, says Sanam Malhotra from Oodles AI. “Powered by a cloud network, Pi acts as a web server for uploading and transiting sensor data on IoT platforms. Custom code, an operating system, a Python library, and a cloud network are all it takes to use Pi Computer as a web server.
“Businesses can easily run and control IoT applications like smart home devices, weather stations, agricultural designs, and more using Raspberry Pi”, she adds.
Raspberry Pi DIN Rail Mounted Enclosures
Hitaltech offers a range of DIN Rail mounting enclosures for development boards, such as Raspberry Pi platforms destined for IoT applications. Our Modulbox and Railbox modular enclosures for DIN Rail mounting Raspberry Pi B, Raspberry Pi B+ and Raspberry 4 versions, provide multiple volumes and space for input/output connections. So you can create IoT applications that are as discrete or complex as you wish.
If you would like to find out more about our products, including our development board enclosures for Raspberry Pi, please contact us today on +44 (0)1253 899910 or email uksales@hitaltech.co.uk. The Hitaltech team is always on hand to answer any questions you may have.
