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Matthew Caesar
This course builds on the previous course: IoT Devices. After we have built and programmed a small self-driving vehicle, now it's time get into more advanced territory and enhance the device's connectivity further. To do so you will study radio frequency (RF) communication, the MAC layer, Mesh Networking as well as distributed algorithms for use with geographic locations. These techniques will be applied to your device in the lab, which is composed of four steps, one in each week of the course. In Week 1, after going over some orientation for the course, you will focus on radio frequency (RF) communication, how it fits in with the larger scope of electromagnetism, how RF signals propagate in physical environments, how RF signals can be used to encode data, and how all this information is useful in constructing resilient and high-bandwidth IoT communication substrates.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/uyjdpl/iot
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What's inside
Syllabus
Week 1: Course Overview and Introduction to Radio Frequency Protocols
Welcome to IoT Communications. This course builds on the previous course: IoT Devices. After we have built and programmed a small self-driving vehicle, now it's time get into more advanced territory and enhance the device's connectivity further. To do so you will study radio frequency (RF) communication, the MAC layer, Mesh Networking as well as distributed algorithms for use with geographic locations. As part of the "Honors" activity, these techniques will be applied to your device in the lab, which is composed of four steps, one in each week of the course. In Week 1, after going over some orientation for the course, you will focus on radio frequency (RF) communication, how it fits in with the larger scope of electromagnetism, how RF signals propagate in physical environments, how RF signals can be used to encode data, and how all this information is useful in constructing resilient and high-bandwidth IoT communication substrates.
Read more
Syllabus
Week 1: Course Overview and Introduction to Radio Frequency Protocols
Welcome to IoT Communications. This course builds on the previous course: IoT Devices. After we have built and programmed a small self-driving vehicle, now it's time get into more advanced territory and enhance the device's connectivity further. To do so you will study radio frequency (RF) communication, the MAC layer, Mesh Networking as well as distributed algorithms for use with geographic locations. As part of the "Honors" activity, these techniques will be applied to your device in the lab, which is composed of four steps, one in each week of the course. In Week 1, after going over some orientation for the course, you will focus on radio frequency (RF) communication, how it fits in with the larger scope of electromagnetism, how RF signals propagate in physical environments, how RF signals can be used to encode data, and how all this information is useful in constructing resilient and high-bandwidth IoT communication substrates.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Explores advanced topics, including radio frequency protocols and mesh networking techniques
Taught by Matthew Caesar, who has a strong reputation in IoT research and development
Combines theoretical concepts with hands-on labs, providing a comprehensive learning experience
Builds upon a foundation in IoT devices, making it suitable for intermediate learners
Emphasizes the practical applications of IoT connectivity in various industries
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Reviews summary
Iot communications: advanced practical connectivity
According to students, this course offers a deep dive into IoT communication protocols , particularly RF communication, MAC layer, and mesh networking . Learners consistently highlight the engaging hands-on labs , especially those involving the self-driving vehicle , as key to solidifying theoretical knowledge. While the pacing can be quick and it requires strong prerequisites —building significantly on the 'IoT Devices' course—many find it highly valuable for professional applications . Some recent reviews suggest content is being kept current , addressing earlier concerns about outdated materials.
Instructor is knowledgeable, but presentation can be dry.
"The instructor's expertise is evident throughout."
"While the information is clearly there and comprehensive, the delivery can be a bit dry and theoretical..."
"The instructor knows their stuff."
Course content is updated and highly relevant to industry.
"While some older video segments felt a little dated visually, the information itself was still highly relevant for my work."
"The course could benefit from some modernization; some references and tools seemed slightly behind."
"I found the discussions on MAC layer and mesh networking to be incredibly relevant to my professional needs."
"It's encouraging to see the course content being kept current, ensuring its continued relevance."
Provides comprehensive understanding of IoT communications.
"The course offers a truly deep dive into RF communication and MAC layer protocols, I learned a lot."
"This course provided a very strong theoretical foundation on RF communications and distributed algorithms."
"The depth is impressive, especially on the MAC layer... It clearly prepares you for professional applications."
Hands-on labs effectively apply theory to real devices.
"The hands-on activities are well-designed and highly effective."
"The practical labs applying concepts to the self-driving vehicle were incredibly insightful. It really solidifies the theoretical knowledge."
"The weekly labs are a true highlight, making the abstract concepts tangible."
"The hands-on portions are incredibly effective for reinforcing concepts."
Requires strong prior IoT knowledge and a fast pace.
"This course really requires you to have completed 'IoT Devices' and have a solid engineering background."
"It's not for beginners, and assumes you're comfortable with advanced topics. Pacing is pretty quick."
"I struggled a lot... felt overwhelmed by the pace and the assumed knowledge... for very advanced learners."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in IoT Communications with these
activities:
Coding Refresher
Show steps
Strengthen your coding fundamentals to prepare for implementing IoT protocols and algorithms.
Browse courses on
Programming
Show steps
-
Review basic programming concepts
-
Practice coding exercises to reinforce your understanding
RF Communications Tutorials
Show steps
Enhance your comprehension of the fundamentals of RF communication and its application within IoT contexts.
Show steps
-
Explore online tutorials on RF communication principles
-
Practice implementing basic RF communication techniques
Review Electromagnetism Concepts
Show steps
Reviewing this topic will help you better understand the foundational concepts of radio frequency (RF) communication as applied in IoT.
Browse courses on
Electromagnetism
Show steps
-
Review materials on electromagnetism
-
Complete practice problems related to electromagnetism
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
MAC Layer Simulation Exercises
Show steps
These drills will strengthen your understanding of MAC layer protocols and their role in IoT.
Show steps
-
Simulate various MAC layer protocols in a virtual environment
-
Analyze the performance and efficiency of different MAC layer protocols
Mesh Networking Discussion Group
Show steps
Engaging in discussions will deepen your grasp of mesh networking techniques and how they contribute to IoT.
Show steps
-
Join or create a study group focused on mesh networking
-
Participate in discussions and share knowledge with peers
IoT Service Discovery Solution
Show steps
Create a practical solution for implementing service discovery in an IoT network, consolidating your understanding of this key concept.
Browse courses on
Service Discovery
Show steps
-
Design and implement a service discovery mechanism for an IoT network
-
Test and evaluate the effectiveness of the service discovery solution
Contribute to IoT Open-Source Projects
Show steps
By contributing to open-source IoT projects, you gain hands-on experience and contribute to the advancement of IoT technologies.
Browse courses on
IoT
Show steps
-
Identify open-source IoT projects that align with your interests
-
Contribute to the project by submitting code, documentation, or bug fixes
Coding Refresher
Show steps
Strengthen your coding fundamentals to prepare for implementing IoT protocols and algorithms.
Browse courses on
Programming
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review basic programming concepts
- Practice coding exercises to reinforce your understanding
RF Communications Tutorials
Show steps
Enhance your comprehension of the fundamentals of RF communication and its application within IoT contexts.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Explore online tutorials on RF communication principles
- Practice implementing basic RF communication techniques
Review Electromagnetism Concepts
Show steps
Reviewing this topic will help you better understand the foundational concepts of radio frequency (RF) communication as applied in IoT.
Browse courses on
Electromagnetism
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review materials on electromagnetism
- Complete practice problems related to electromagnetism
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
MAC Layer Simulation Exercises
Show steps
These drills will strengthen your understanding of MAC layer protocols and their role in IoT.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Simulate various MAC layer protocols in a virtual environment
- Analyze the performance and efficiency of different MAC layer protocols
Mesh Networking Discussion Group
Show steps
Engaging in discussions will deepen your grasp of mesh networking techniques and how they contribute to IoT.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Join or create a study group focused on mesh networking
- Participate in discussions and share knowledge with peers
IoT Service Discovery Solution
Show steps
Create a practical solution for implementing service discovery in an IoT network, consolidating your understanding of this key concept.
Browse courses on
Service Discovery
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Design and implement a service discovery mechanism for an IoT network
- Test and evaluate the effectiveness of the service discovery solution
Contribute to IoT Open-Source Projects
Show steps
By contributing to open-source IoT projects, you gain hands-on experience and contribute to the advancement of IoT technologies.
Browse courses on
IoT
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify open-source IoT projects that align with your interests
- Contribute to the project by submitting code, documentation, or bug fixes
Career center
Learners who complete IoT Communications will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Network Engineer
Network Engineer
Network Engineers design, install, and maintain computer networks. They ensure that networks are running smoothly and efficiently, and that data is transmitted securely. This course may be useful for Network Engineers because it provides a foundation in radio frequency (RF) communication, MAC layer protocols, mesh networking, and distributed algorithms.
Network Administrator
Network Administrator
Network Administrators manage and maintain computer networks. They install and configure hardware and software, and they monitor networks for problems. This course may be useful for Network Administrators because it provides a foundation in radio frequency (RF) communication, MAC layer protocols, mesh networking, and distributed algorithms.
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineers design, implement, and maintain computer systems. They ensure that systems are running smoothly and efficiently, and that data is transmitted securely. This course may be useful for Systems Engineers because it provides a foundation in radio frequency (RF) communication, MAC layer protocols, mesh networking, and distributed algorithms.
Data Engineer
Data Engineer
Data Engineers design, build, and maintain data pipelines. They ensure that data is collected, processed, and stored in a way that makes it accessible and useful. This course may be useful for Data Engineers because it provides a foundation in radio frequency (RF) communication, MAC layer protocols, mesh networking, and distributed algorithms.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. They ensure that software is running smoothly and efficiently, and that data is transmitted securely. This course may be useful for Software Engineers because it provides a foundation in radio frequency (RF) communication, MAC layer protocols, mesh networking, and distributed algorithms.
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientist
Computer Scientists research and develop new computer technologies. They design and implement algorithms and data structures, and they develop new theories and models for computing. This course may be useful for Computer Scientists because it provides a foundation in radio frequency (RF) communication, MAC layer protocols, mesh networking, and distributed algorithms.
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineers design, develop, and maintain electrical systems. They work on a wide range of projects, from designing power plants to developing new medical devices. This course may be useful for Electrical Engineers because it provides a foundation in radio frequency (RF) communication, MAC layer protocols, mesh networking, and distributed algorithms.
Telecommunications Engineer
Telecommunications Engineer
Telecommunications Engineers design, build, and maintain telecommunications networks. They work on a wide range of projects, from installing fiber optic cables to developing new wireless technologies. This course may be useful for Telecommunications Engineers because it provides a foundation in radio frequency (RF) communication, MAC layer protocols, mesh networking, and distributed algorithms.
Information Technology Manager
Information Technology Manager
Information Technology Managers plan and direct the implementation of information technology systems. They work with users to identify their needs, and they develop and implement solutions that meet those needs. This course may be useful for Information Technology Managers because it provides a foundation in radio frequency (RF) communication, MAC layer protocols, mesh networking, and distributed algorithms.
Computer and Information Systems Manager
Computer and Information Systems Manager
Computer and Information Systems Managers plan and direct the implementation of computer and information systems. They work with users to identify their needs, and they develop and implement solutions that meet those needs. This course may be useful for Computer and Information Systems Managers because it provides a foundation in radio frequency (RF) communication, MAC layer protocols, mesh networking, and distributed algorithms.
Computer Network Architect
Computer Network Architect
Computer Network Architects design and implement computer networks. They work on a wide range of projects, from designing small office networks to developing large-scale enterprise networks. This course may be useful for Computer Network Architects because it provides a foundation in radio frequency (RF) communication, MAC layer protocols, mesh networking, and distributed algorithms.
Network Security Engineer
Network Security Engineer
Network Security Engineers design and implement security measures to protect computer networks from unauthorized access. They work on a wide range of projects, from developing firewalls to implementing intrusion detection systems. This course may be useful for Network Security Engineers because it provides a foundation in radio frequency (RF) communication, MAC layer protocols, mesh networking, and distributed algorithms.
Wireless Network Engineer
Wireless Network Engineer
Wireless Network Engineers design and implement wireless networks. They work on a wide range of projects, from designing small office networks to developing large-scale enterprise networks. This course may be useful for Wireless Network Engineers because it provides a foundation in radio frequency (RF) communication, MAC layer protocols, mesh networking, and distributed algorithms.
Embedded Systems Engineer
Embedded Systems Engineer
Embedded Systems Engineers design and develop embedded systems. Embedded systems are computer systems that are embedded in other devices, such as cars, airplanes, and medical devices. This course may be useful for Embedded Systems Engineers because it provides a foundation in radio frequency (RF) communication, MAC layer protocols, mesh networking, and distributed algorithms.
Product Manager
Product Manager
Product Managers are responsible for the development and marketing of products. They work with engineers and designers to develop new products, and they work with marketing and sales teams to bring those products to market. This course may be useful for Product Managers because it provides a foundation in radio frequency (RF) communication, MAC layer protocols, mesh networking, and distributed algorithms.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/uyjdpl/iot
Reading list
We've selected 12 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
IoT Communications.
This advanced textbook provides a comprehensive overview of wireless communication systems.
This textbook is useful for understanding the theoretical foundations of wireless communication.
This comprehensive resource covering the fundamentals of wireless communications, including modulation techniques, channel modeling, and multiple-antenna systems. It can provide essential background knowledge for the course's exploration of RF communication.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of communication engineering principles, including RF communication.
Provides a detailed overview of the IEEE 802.11 standard, including the MAC layer protocols and mechanisms used in wireless LANs. It can serve as a useful reference for understanding the MAC layer concepts covered in the course.
Save
This textbook provides an overview of IoT fundamentals, including communication protocols.
Provides an overview of IoT key applications and protocols.
Provides a high-level overview of IoT design principles.
This beginner-friendly guide to the Internet of Things, covering topics such as hardware, software, and connectivity. It can provide background knowledge for those new to the field.
Provides a hands-on approach to learning about IoT.
Provides a comprehensive introduction to wireless sensor networks, covering topics such as network architectures, protocols, and applications. It can serve as a useful reference for understanding the underlying principles of IoT communications.
Covers the ZigBee wireless protocol, which is commonly used in low-power IoT applications. It can serve as a useful reference for understanding the technical details of a specific IoT protocol.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/uyjdpl/iot
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Effort
The course is designed for 4 weeks of intensive learning, which can be stretched out as needed.
Level
Intermediate
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Instructor
Matthew Caesar
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
한국어
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हिंदी
Nederlands
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Türkçe
Polski
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Bahasa Indonesia
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қазақша
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Hands-on Internet of Things. It's comprised of four courses:
- IoT Cloud
- IoT Networking
- IoT Communications (viewing)
- IoT Devices
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