Embedded System Design Techniques - Designing IoT Sensor Nodes using the ESP8266
Before designing an IoT sensor node, it's useful to understand the different ideas and definitions for the IoT. In this session, Jacob will review the system architecture for the IoT and define the terms and concepts along with the hardware and software that will be needed to design a low power sensor node. Attendees will walk away with a clear understanding on what a sensor node is and how it fits into the IoT architecture.
There are many different network protocols that devices can use to connect to the internet but a common way is to use Wi-Fi. Sensor nodes should be low power and using a microcontroller and a Wi-Fi module is not a great solution. In this session, we will examine the ESP8266 which is a combined Wi-FI / microcontroller module and examine how to get the ESP8266 setup using Micro Python.
In this session, we will examine how to connect the ESP8266 to the internet. The code will be put in place that will allow a developer to stream their sensor data and store it in the cloud. Attendees will walk away with the knowledge to connect their system to the internet and begin manipulating data. We will also examine how developers can view and manipulate the data they receive.
In this final session, we will examine the concepts on how we can remotely manage our ESP8266 device node and update the Micro Python application. We will discuss potential problems such as security risks. We'll also look at how with two-way communication, we can begin to automate responds, respond to sensor readings that are outside set preconditions and other ideas on how we can improve our example sensor node.
Jacob Beningo is an embedded software consultant who currently works with clients in more than a dozen countries to dramatically transform their businesses by improving product quality, cost and time to market. He has published more than 300 articles on embedded software development techniques, has published several books, is a sought-after speaker and technical trainer and holds three degrees which include a Masters of Engineering from the University of Michigan.