From USB to Dongle: The Evolution of Connectivity in IoT and Legacy Systems

Go Beyond and Explore

What is the difference between a USB and USB-C?

USB and USB-C are both connectors used for data transfer and charging, but they differ in several ways. USB (like USB-A and USB-B) is larger, non-reversible, and typically found on older devices. It supports data transfer speeds up to 5 Gbps and limited power delivery (up to 15W). In contrast, USB-C is smaller, oval, and reversible, making it more user-friendly. USB-C supports faster data transfer (up to 40 Gbps with Thunderbolt 3/4), high power delivery (up to 100W), and is increasingly used for modern devices like smartphones, laptops, and tablets. Additionally, USB-C supports video output, making it more versatile. While USB-C is becoming the standard for new devices, USB-A is still common on older equipment. Overall, USB-C is more compact, efficient, and capable compared to traditional USB connectors.

Why use an IoT Dongle to retrofit traditional applications?

Communication with the Cloud/Network: The IoT dongle connects the meter to a network (such as cellular networks, Wi-Fi, or other IoT communication protocols like NB-IoT or LoRa) to transmit usage data to the cloud or a central server. This provides real-time access to meter data, eliminating the need for manual readings.
Compatibility with Legacy Systems: IoT dongles are designed to be easily added to existing static meters, allowing them to "talk" to newer smart grid systems without replacing the entire meter infrastructure.
Remote Management: IoT dongles enable remote configuration, firmware updates, and data retrieval, which is essential for the effective monitoring and management of meters in various locations.
Cost-Effective: Instead of replacing the entire meter, retrofitting with an IoT dongle is a more cost-effective solution, as it adds smart capabilities to existing meters.
Common examples of IoT dongles used in retrofitting applications: These include cellular IoT dongles that support 4G or 5G connectivity, Wi-Fi dongles for local area connectivity, and low-power technologies like NB-IoT (Narrowband IoT) — particularly suited for metering systems due to their extended range and low power consumption.

What are the factors to consider when choosing a dongle form factor for IoT applications?

When choosing a dongle form factor for IoT applications, several key factors should be considered:

Size and Portability: Smaller dongles are more portable but might limit connectivity options or power. Larger dongles can offer more features but may not be as easy to integrate into compact devices.
Power Consumption: Low-power dongles are ideal for battery-powered or remote applications, but small form factors may struggle with power efficiency.
Connectivity: The dongle must support the required communication protocols (e.g., cellular, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth) for the IoT application. Multi-protocol dongles might be larger or more expensive.
Durability: For industrial or outdoor use, the dongle must be rugged and have adequate protection (e.g., IP ratings) for harsh conditions.
Data Throughput: Consider the dongle’s data handling capabilities; smaller dongles might limit speed or volume, affecting applications that need real-time analytics.
Security: Choose a dongle with sufficient encryption and authentication features, especially for sensitive IoT data.
Cost: Smaller, simpler dongles may be cheaper but might lack advanced features; consider future scalability and system cost.