How to Enable Your Legacy Systems Online with IoT

The fourth industrial revolution which is also called Industry 4.0, has arrived and and upon us. The Internet of Things (IoT) is the foremost tech to become a game changer for businesses and industries across the globe. IoT refers to the network of interconnected devices which includes everything from sensors and actuators to smart appliances, that are able to communicate digitally with each other and exchange data too, using the internet.

Although IoT has garnered tremendous popularity and interest recently, many organisations still depend on legacy systems developed in the earlier era to get their tasks done. However, technology has made it possible to bring these legacy systems online, to be integrated with IoT and to leverage automation and even AI.

The challenge is to overcome the lack of connectivity and enable data exchange capabilities. However, the right approach and relevant innovative technologies can bring legacy systems online to unlock the potential of Industry 4.0 and digital transformation. Here we will discuss the ways to put your legacy system online.

Assessment

The first step is to assess your legacy system to find the potential to integrate it with the IoT platform. Identify the current status, its strengths and weaknesses. Identify the area where IoT can add value and how it can help you bridge the gaps and the requirements for integrating IoT into the legacy system. Consider factors like data collection, security, scalability and connectivity.

State Clear Objectives

It is important to define your objectives for IOT integration by identifying specific areas that need to be leveraged with IoT. Then align with your goals, objectives and priorities.

Select the Right Platform:

Choosing the right IoT platform is critical for successfully integrating with the legacy systems. There are many choices in the market, but consider factors like scalability connectivity, security, analytics and ease of integration with the legacy system. Pick the right IoT platform that provides the needed features and tools to build, deploy and manage your business goals and requirements.

Plan for Data Security

As IoT networks and devices are vulnerable to security or data breaches, it is critical to consider security when integrating with legacy systems that may lack this feature. Ensure that your plan includes security measures to thwart potential threats and breaches. Go for access controls, encryption, authentication, etc.

Ensure Connectivity

It is key to connect your legacy system with the IoT platform. connectivity is crucial as you need to add sensors, gateways or actuators for your existing system to support data collection and to communicate with other devices via the network. Options can be wired, wireless or hybrid systems.

Develop, Customise & Test the Solution

One-size-fits-all solutions may not be the answer, as a legacy system is unique. Tailor you IoT solution to suit the requirements and objectives of your legacy system integration. You may have to consider APIs or protocols to enable seamless integration with the IOT network. You have to work closely with your IoT provider or technology partner and also test and iterate it when deployed, for successful integration between the legacy system and IoT platform.

Consider all things discussed above before you make a choice. of the right IoT solution provider. consider experts who can help build and customise your IoT solution, to connect it and run it.  they also have to provide the necessary support for the IOT platform and related to your service, industry or business.

We at Trinetra T-sense offer secured and scalable IoT software. Our customised IoT solutions already delivered for various industries show we have relevant expertise and experience in IIoT projects.