Why do IoT Devices Die?

Just like other electronic products, IoT devices, such as sensors and wearables, can also break down and stop working.

14:40 22 November 2017

This often happens at the end of one of two cycles: duty cycle or usefulness cycle. The latter means that the product stopped being useful and hence, they are unplugged. The former, on the other hand, occurs when there is a problem with the device’s hardware or software or when they physically break down.

 

Many IoT devices have a service behind them. These are meant for remote actuation of the device and the collection of sensor data. If the business behind the IoT service fails or gets acquired, the service can be discontinued. This is a problem if the IoT device is reliant on the service as it will then become useless. 

 

Software that runs IoT devices must also be constantly monitored and updated for changes. Updates often include firmware and applications running on a host processor. If the business stops pushing new updates, the device may seize to function.

 

The components of IoT devices can also break down usually due to basic wear and tear. Plugs and connectors have a finite limit to how many times they can be plugged before they become less efficient. The adhesives that come with the device can also start to break down and their antennae may fall out from their proper position.

 

To improve user experience, it is important for product makers to have a plan in place to prevent device death. Product managers can provide a target for the longevity of the product, which designers must then build into their designs.