Why is Underwater Communications Networks Vital to the Future of IoT?
What is IoT?
IoT is the abbreviation for Internet of Things. The Internet of Things is the network that allows for both wired and wireless connectivity and exchange is data of physical objects such as cars, computers, home appliances etc and other objects embedded with electronics like sensors, software, actuators etc. Simply put, IoT is what enables ‘things’ to communicate with each other, ‘things’ here referring to any electronic object that has an IP address and can exchange data.
Underwater Communications and IoT
The need for improvement in offshore communications has become a pressing issue. Almost ever byte of data that moves over the internet passes through a subsea cable. A class of IoT has emerged because of this need known as Subsea Internet of Things or (SIoT). SIoT has evolved underwater communications and information technology.
SIoT is a network of wireless sensors & smart devices set up for the provision of operational intelligence such as diagnostic information and performance condition in water. It focuses on communication through water and water-air boundaries. SIoT involves sensors such as temperature pressure, floor vibrations, corrosion etc.
SIoT is notably different from IoT in terms of technology. IoT relies on data pipes and radio waves, while SIoT relies on acoustic sounds waves. For IoT, there is Bluetooth which operates between 2400 hz and 2483.5 hz, while SIoT has Seatooth which runs on low frequency radio waves from 1 hz to 2485 Hz.
How has SIoT influenced IoT?
SIoT has been able to usher in a new age of technological advancement through its search for devices that can aid underwater communications. It has helped develop devices with longer battery life. This has aided improvement in battery life of electronic devices in IoT. SIoT uses automatic underwater vehicles (AUV) to harvest data from remote sensors. This prolonged battery life is one of the things that helps the AUV to go long distances and keep the sensors working.
Seatooth communications which uses radio waves can not transmit data through long distances and splash zones. To solve this problem, SIoT has made efforts to extend the reach of wireless connections through the air-water interface. This has also affected the development of wireless connections onshore. IoT has been able to make improvements in wireless technology because of the work of SIoT.
SIoT helps protect oceans and lakes and support sea life with the use of sensors that detect corrosion, rise in sea level etc. It has improved the monitoring services on the sea and it’s beings. SIoT has also helped to provide warnings ahead of natural disasters such as tsunamis, hurricanes, sea floor vibrations and temperature rising. This has affected IoT positively as well and conferences have been held on Mobile IoT on how it can help to increase our knowledge and minimize casualties caused by natural disasters.
SIoT has also helped in monitoring offshore oil and gas. It monitors the durability and performance of offshore structures. It also provides real-time information on the tension of these structure. It can also protect and enhance offshore equipment. SIoT can track corrosion and prevent pollution of the ocean which could lead to death of sea life.
The Future of IoT
The future of IoT is vital to humanity because it hinges on our survival. Internet of Things Subsea can ensure that through the improvements in network connections. The developments in both wired and wireless connectivity can aid the provision of real-time information on situations at certain locations that are not easily accessible.
IoT Subsea is a necessity for our constantly evolving world.