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Iot Communication Protocols

T
Technical Teaching
ProtIOT
MORABITO Roberto
Abstract

Abstract

The Internet of Things (IoT) introduces unique challenges in achieving efficient, reliable, and scalable connectivity for resource-constrained devices, such as those requiring low power, long-range communication, and cost-effectiveness. This course explores Low Power Wide Area Networks (LPWANs), a family of technologies designed to connect a large number of devices under strict requirements for power consumption, distance, and indoor penetration.

The course is structured around two key categories of LPWAN technologies:

  1. LPWAN for Unlicensed Spectrum: Protocols such as LoRa and SigFox, focusing on their architecture, operation, and use cases.

  2. Cellular LPWAN for Licensed Spectrum: Standards developed by 3GPP, including LTE-M and Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT), with emphasis on their spectrum usage, cost efficiency, and role in IoT applications.

Additionally, the course introduces complementary IEEE 802.15.4-based technologies such as ZigBee, Wi-SUN, and 6LoWPAN, alongside emerging LPWAN protocols and IoT-specific network solutions like Thread and LoRaWAN.

By blending theoretical insights with practical analysis, students will gain a deep understanding of LPWAN technologies and their applicability to IoT scenarios, preparing them to design and deploy energy-efficient, long-range IoT systems.

 

Teaching and Learning Methods

The course consists of four lectures that establish a strong theoretical foundation on IoT application protocols and architectures. During the fifth lecture, students will receive detailed instructions for a hands-on assignment designed to apply the concepts covered in class.

This assignment will involve practical activities on selected protocols studied during the lectures, offering students an opportunity to deepen their understanding through implementation and experimentation. Students will have the flexibility to complete the assignment from home, with generous deadlines to accommodate their schedules and promote comprehensive learning.

In detail:

  • Lectures: The first four lectures will focus on building a strong theoretical foundation by covering the principles, protocols, and architectures specific to IoT. Concepts will be explained with real-world examples and case studies to enhance understanding.

  • Hands-On Instruction: The fifth lecture will transition into practical applications, where students will be introduced to a hands-on assignment. This assignment will involve implementing and experimenting with some of the protocols covered during the lectures, enabling students to connect theory to practice.

  • Office Hours (Sixth and Seventh Lectures): The final two lectures will be dedicated to office hours. These sessions are designed to provide students with the opportunity to seek clarifications on lab activities and course content. Students are encouraged to come with any questions or requests for further explanations on topics covered throughout the course.

Independent Work: Students will have the flexibility to complete the hands-on assignment at their own pace, working from home with detailed instructions and support. Flexible deadlines ensure students have sufficient time to engage deeply with the material while accommodating their schedules.

Course Policies

  • Attendance to the lectures is not mandatory but is highly recommended to gain a comprehensive understanding of the course material.

  • Lab reports (three in total) are mandatory. Failure to submit a lab report will result in a score of 0 for that specific assignment.

Bibliography

Bibliography

The course slides include pointers to relevant sources and references that support the material covered during lectures. Additional bibliography might be made available on the Moodle platform. These supplementary resources are optional and intended for students who wish to explore the topics in greater depth; they are not required for the course or its assessments.

Requirements

Prerequisites

This course requires foundational knowledge in networking and computer programming to ensure students can fully engage with the material. Specifically, students should be familiar with:

  • Networking Concepts: Understanding basic networking principles, such as the OSI model, wireless communication fundamentals, and protocol stacks.

  • Programming Skills: Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g., Python, C++) to experiment with and analyze IoT protocols during the hands-on assignments.

  • General Technical Skills: Familiarity with Linux command-line tools, basic debugging techniques, and software development tools is highly recommended.

While prior exposure to IoT, LPWAN technologies, or low-power wireless protocols is not mandatory, students are encouraged to review related materials if they feel less confident in these areas.

Description

Description:

This course provides an in-depth exploration of Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) technologies, which are designed to connect large numbers of IoT devices under constraints such as low power consumption, long-range communication, cost efficiency, and limited device complexity. The topics covered include:

  • Introduction to IoT: A foundational overview of IoT concepts, lifecycle, and device categorization to set the stage for understanding LPWAN technologies.

  • IEEE 802.15.4 and Related Protocols:

    • Principles of the IEEE 802.15.4 stack, including its physical and MAC layers, frame formats, and channel access mechanisms (e.g., CSMA/CA).

    • Extensions like 802.15.4e, which improve functionality through time-slotted channel hopping and enhanced scheduling.

    • Introduction to ZigBee, including its architecture, profiles, and addressing schemes.

  • 6LoWPAN:

    • An adaptation of IPv6 for low-power networks, covering its architecture, compression mechanisms, and header management.

    • Usage scenarios and challenges, such as neighbor discovery and forwarding mechanisms.

  • LPWAN for Unlicensed Spectrum:

    • Protocols such as LoRa and SigFox, focusing on their protocol stacks, coverage, use cases, and spectrum management.

    • Detailed examination of physical layer technologies like chirp spread spectrum, duty cycle constraints, and adaptive data rates.

  • Cellular LPWAN for Licensed Spectrum:

    • Standards such as LTE-M and Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT), exploring their spectrum access, energy efficiency, and coexistence with legacy LTE networks.

  • Other IoT Connectivity Solutions:

    • Emerging protocols like Thread and Wi-SUN, and extensions of IEEE 802.15.4 such as Wi-Fi for IoT (802.11ah).

By the end of the course, students will understand the principles, architectures, and practical applications of LPWAN technologies, enabling them to design and implement scalable, energy-efficient IoT networks.

 

Learning outcomes: 

 

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

  • Understand LPWAN Principles: Explain the key principles and characteristics of Low Power Wide Area Networks (LPWANs), including their design goals, trade-offs, and application scenarios.

  • Analyze IEEE 802.15.4 and Related Protocols: Evaluate the architecture, components, and extensions of IEEE 802.15.4-based technologies (e.g., ZigBee, 6LoWPAN) and their role in enabling low-power IoT networks.

  • Explore Unlicensed LPWAN Technologies: Understand the protocol stacks, physical layer techniques, and real-world applications of unlicensed LPWAN technologies such as LoRa and SigFox.

  • Examine Cellular LPWAN Standards: Assess the features, benefits, and limitations of cellular-based LPWAN technologies like LTE-M and Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) in IoT deployments.

  • Compare and Contrast LPWAN Protocols: Identify the strengths and weaknesses of different LPWAN technologies, and recommend appropriate solutions for specific IoT use cases.

  • Design and Evaluate IoT Networks: Apply the knowledge gained to design, analyze, and evaluate IoT networks using LPWAN technologies, considering factors like power consumption, scalability, and spectrum use.

  • Gain Awareness of Emerging IoT Connectivity Solutions: Explore upcoming IoT network solutions such as Thread, Wi-SUN, and IEEE 802.11ah, and their potential impact on IoT ecosystems.

  • Develop Problem-Solving Skills: Utilize theoretical and practical knowledge to solve real-world problems involving LPWAN technologies and IoT network design.

 

Nb hours: 25,00

Evaluation:

  • The course assessment is designed to balance theoretical understanding with practical application, ensuring a well-rounded evaluation of your learning progress:

  • Written Exam (50%): The written exam will assess your comprehension of the theoretical concepts covered during the lectures. Questions may include a mix of formats, such as open-ended questions, true/false statements, multiple-choice queries, figure analysis (based on materials presented in lectures and labs), and matching exercises. A minimum score of 8/20 is required to pass this component.

  • Lab Reports (50%): You will complete three lab reports based on the hands-on activities. These reports will evaluate your ability to apply the concepts learned in class. Each report is equally weighted, and all must be submitted to avoid receiving a 0 for the respective assignment.

  • To successfully pass the course, your final grade (the weighted average of the written exam and lab reports) must be 10/20 or higher, with a minimum score of 8/20 in the written exam.