Modern cameras are being connected to Internet of Things (IoT) systems, but this innovation is primarily being leveraged for security purposes. This is a very practical approach, since our article on the Internet of Things highlighted that this network allows devices to exchange data over a wireless connection. Given that this internet infrastructure allows gadgets to be controlled remotely, IoT-connected cameras can be utilized for safety and security purposes. For instance, they can help self-driving cars assess the environment and navigate through roads. Meanwhile, home security cameras can alert homeowners about any suspicious movements through the network.
However, there is also potential for the IoT system to be leveraged for cameras used in personal photography. To illustrate, here’s how IoT systems can be integrated into digital cameras:
Elements Needed for IoT Integration
5G Connectivity for Stronger IoT Systems
The first point to talk about is what technology actually needs to be tapped into to make personal cameras compatible with the IoT. For personal cameras around the world to achieve regular IoT connectivity, they’ll need to rely on strong wireless networks. This connectivity will become more plausible over the next years, since 5G connectivity is expected to emerge in the near future. In fact, it is predicted that 5G connectivity will comprise 20% of global connections by 2025, hinting towards more widespread availability. This will enable millions of devices to connect with the IoT, including personal cameras.
Design Development for Greater Connectivity
The second main technology has more to do with digital camera design. While the internal makeup of cameras currently can’t support IoT, specific changes can be made to make them better suited for connectivity. There already are tiny antennae that can be built onto circuit boards specifically to enable the device’s IoT connectivity. Through software redesigns, standard digital camera PCBs can be fitted with an antennae that boosts the signal integrity of the entire unit. This allows the electrical signals to pass through systems seamlessly so that the device remains connected. Furthermore, the PCB must also be equipped with analog and digital sensors that can meet the voltage needs of the IoT system. This provision will help the PCB support the single/dual-way data transfer from the sensors.
The Impact of IoT Integration on Digital Cameras
IoT integration in digital cameras allows the idea of “active archiving” to come to reality. Active archiving allows unstructured data to be easily extracted from a device so that it can be stored in a secure medium. Through the IoT system, cameras can be equipped with an active archive setting so that the device has its own file-sharing system. A connected camera like this could automatically upload new photos to online folders, or even send them directly to pre-approved recipients. This would be an incredibly useful function for professional and amateur photographers alike, whether it was used to enable swift collaboration on projects or simply to make it easier to share photos with family during a trip abroad. This technology is already being introduced in smart glasses, so it will be a promising feature to look forward to in digital cameras.
IoT connectivity is an innovation that is already present in plenty of cameras. And this digital transition is furthered along by 5G connectivity and an improved PCB design. Through these improvements, data transfer between digital cameras and other computers can be supported wherever you may be.
