IoT Gateways: What They Are and Why They Matter
Building Management Systems (BMS) have traditionally consisted of different systems and silos that have been implemented over the course of a building’s life cycle. Without the correct tools in place, the various moving parts, devices, and communication protocols that have accumulated would never be able to connect and interact with each other. This is where an IoT gateway comes into the picture.
An IoT gateway acts as a centralized layer within a building that can ingest, synthesize, and organize data arriving from a variety of different devices and sensors. The gateway simultaneously transports the data to the cloud, allowing for real-time, remote monitoring of the building’s systems. This is extremely critical for buildings seeking to ensure that their system operations are functioning correctly and as intended.
Devices, sensors, and systems are not all created equal. They are unique, and all present their own methods of connectivity (Wi-Fi, Ethernet, 4G LTE, etc.) and communication protocols (BACnet, LoRaWAN, Modbus, etc.). It is extremely important to have an IoT gateway that offers the flexibility to accommodate a variety of different applications and use cases.
Key Benefits of an IoT Gateway:
- Eliminate Siloed Systems – IoT gateways and ecosystems allow you to move away from traditional, on-premises systems by allowing for remote monitoring via the cloud. This is essential for portfolio owners and managers seeking to view the performance and status of their assets in a single location.
- Scalable Solution – For users seeking to create a standard and streamlined approach across their asset base, the correct gateway selection can serve as a lightweight solution that can be quickly deployed across portfolios to allow for the support of new device and sensor additions.
- Reduce Cost – When deployed effectively, IoT gateways and ecosystems can provide the same level of control, monitoring, and analysis as traditional systems at a fraction of the cost.
- Decrease Asset Risk – Gateways allow users the opportunity to isolate specific systems and understand the status of each before a problem occurs.
There is no questioning the benefits that IoT gateways bring to the table. They are an integral part of intelligent buildings and are here to stay.
If you are interested in learning more about TBL’s Node, or IoT gateways in general, TBL is here to help.
