internet of things

The IoT market is growing at a fast rate as more and more devices are now IoT-connected. Cars, homes, offices, etc. are all running on this technology making life easier and more productive. As a result of this, there is a need for more IoT developers that will make sure that such connected devices are secure and function properly.

Therefore, we have decided to write this article for aspiring developers who do not know where to start. We will briefly discuss the four stages involved in the development of an Internet of Things device. Then, we will give you 5 time-proven tips that will nudge you in the right direction where you can learn IoT development in all its glory.

So, let’s get started…

IoT Device Development Stages

The following are the stages involved in the development of an Internet of Things device:

1. Physical Hardware Assembly

For this stage, you require engineering skills. As an aspiring developer, do you possess a basic knowledge of electronic engineering? If you do, you’re on track and if you don’t; it’s not the end. Many IoT devices are made from pre-assembled boards as well as already connected sensors. You can visit sumatosoft to learn more about IoT physical hardware assembly.

2. Device Programming

As you might have guessed, you need to know how to program to do this. You must possess data reading skills to decode the data transmitted by the connected sensors on the device. After reading it, you now have to send it to the server.

3. Server Programming

At this stage, server-side languages such as ASP.NET, Node.js, or PHP usage will be required. You will also need to make use of database queries that are based on any SQL derivative; although, we recommend MySQL.

4. Data Display on User Device

This involves the creation of an app or a webpage that will display the data directly to the product user. Hence, you need knowledge of JavaScript, PHP, HTML, MYSQL, and CSS.

From the stages above, you might have noticed how broad the entire process is. Therefore, an IoT developer may or may not be able to do all the stages. That is why most firms have departments that specialize in each of these stages.

Therefore, you can pick any of these stages and focus your career in that field. Then, as you learn more, you can expand your reach to other stages.

Tips on How to Become an IoT Developer

Below are tips that will help you become an Internet of Things developer…

1. Understand Sensors and Wireless Communication Deeply

If you must be an IoT developer, you cannot do without understanding sensors deeply. This is what sets developers in this field apart from other types of developers. You must also possess a great understanding of wireless communication.

If you don’t have this understanding, you can develop it by taking online courses. Visit sites like https://www.classcentral.com/course/edx-iot-sensors-and-devices-9751 to get started now. And you can practice on some inexpensive sensors as you learn.

Most experts recommend that Internet of Things developers should have an electrical engineering or computer science background as it will help them transition easily into the field.

2. Learn Web Languages

Experts recommend that aspiring IoT developers should learn a web-based language before starting their career in IoT development. This is because most developers will have to use these languages. Hence, we recommend you learn JavaScript, while an alternative will be Python.

3. Prioritize User Interface

While other aspects of IoT development are important, the endgame is the user interface. If the user interface is bad, all the work put in becomes useless. Hence, whatever product you are making, make it simple so that anyone can use it.

4. Make Use of a Raspberry Pi

These devices will allow you to master making complex projects. It will also allow you to develop your skills at a faster rate.

5. Join an Internet of Things Developers Community

There is a lot you can learn from others, hence, the need to find and join a community that is already actively involved in what you aspire to become. You can check Hacksters for such communities. Click here to know more.

Conclusion

We hope this article has pointed you in the right direction and you now know key areas you need to work on to achieve your career dream. One more piece of advice to help you stay at the top of your game in the IoT development field: Never stop learning.