Internet of Things Labs

These labs were introduced at Summer Working Connections in July 2019 as part of the “Preparing to Teach the Internet of Things” track. Students can “get their hands dirty” by walking through these lab assignments in support of IoT technologies. All of the exercises can be done in a typical networking classroom/lab (such as A+, Network+ or Cisco).

Overview
The Internet of Things (IoT) is the network of physical objects or “things” embedded with electronics, software, sensors and connectivity to enable it to achieve greater value and service by exchanging data with the manufacturer, operator and/or other connected devices. Each thing is uniquely identifiable through its embedded computing system but is able to interoperate within the existing Internet infrastructure.

IoT implies the idea of a totally connected environment where computer technology can assist in the management of the residential, industrial and commercial environments. The management tools can be programmed or directed to distribute both incoming and outgoing Internet data, audio/video streams, lighting and environmental controls.

The control and management of IoT systems can go from simple to complex depending on the needs, ability and budget of the particular environment.

IoT systems require a number of diverse components to work together. Components such as audio/video systems will integrate into the data network (media servers/clients for example). But, even though a complete integration solution might be the ultimate desire, much of the technology implementations can be built and controlled as independent modules that are connected to various appliances and devices in the residential, industrial or commercial environment.

Developing and deploying meaningful and quality hands-on IoT assignments for students can be challenging. Issues such as types and costs of IoT sensors, software licensing, space considerations, increasing student time on task and allowing enough access to a lab environment are just a few of the challenges faced by instructors wishing to teach IoT.

Labs
1 – Set Up the IoT Pod Infrastructure
2a – Set Up NAS Storage - XPEnology
2b – Set up NAS Storage - FreeNAS
3a – VoIP Installation, Set Up, Configuration
3b – VoIP Create Extensions and Add Softphones
3c – Set Up IP Hard Phones
4 – Set Up NextPVR
5 – Media Distribution Practicum
6a – Set Up Surveillance Using iSpy
6b – Set up Surveillance Using XPEnology
7a – Lighting Control Systens Using Philips Hue
7b – Lighting Control Systens Using LIFX IP Bulbs
8 – Thermostat Control Systems
9 – Ring Doorbell
10 – Microcontroller Practicum Using Samsung SmartThings
11 – Microcontroller Practicum Using Home Assistant