Selecting Suitable WiFi Module for IoT Application: Factors to Consider

The rapid advancements in the knowledge of internet and communication technology have led to the invention of many innovative tools that have redefined the lifestyle of people in the modern day world. Wireless technology that was once limited to the connection of computers, smartphones and GPS devices has witnessed a major shift as we see that many physical products or home appliances like thermostats, coffee makers, refrigerators and even toothbrushes can be connected together and controlled through the smartphones.

Adding a wireless connection to the internet for non-traditional products like buildings, home or office appliances, vehicles and other physical devices has ushered in an era of Internet of Things. This means that the products that are embedded with electronics, sensors and actuators can collect and exchange data and can be remotely controlled from a specific networking device. 

Selecting suitable IoT WiFi module and integrating WLAN technology to any physical device in order to connect it with other WLAN device is essential to get the most out of your residential or commercial IoT application. 

A WiFi module runs only when it is embedded in a system. This means that when selecting suitable WiFi module you have to consider both the software and the hardware. You will find a plethora of WiFi modules and solutions available in the market. Here is a checklist of some of the important factors or parameters to consider that will help you select suitable WiFi module as per your applications:-

Modern Wireless LAN standards as used in IoT applications are one or the other kind of 802.11 standards that include 802.11a, b, g, n or a combination of standards. Each Wifi Module with a specific standard has different specification requirements. You should consider these features like speed, data rate and operating frequency band (900 MHz, 2.4, 3.6, 5, and 60 GHz). 

The data rate is the amount of data passing through a WiFi system that can be from one Mbps (802.11b) to 6.75 Gb/s (802.11ac). Based on your IoT application requirement you can select from among different IoT WiFi modules with the higher or lower data rate or consult an IoT middleware supplier for selecting the right module. 

WiFi modules with high data rate and long transmission distance require higher transmit power output that would make the battery life of your mobiles short. Hence, you need to consider the tradeoffs among higher data rate, maximum transmission range and power requirements and select the one that is compatible and suits your requirements. 

Based on the number and type of routers and /or wireless access points WiFi modules have different transmission range. This also depends upon the type of antenna, the location and the environment. You need to check the transmission range of the module to get the maximum benefits from the technology. 

Besides there are other parameters as well like antenna and connector, operating system (driver support), secure Wi-Fi authentication schemes, packaging type, operating temperature range and others that differentiate various WiFi modules.

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