_The trend is more integration with devices from several manufacturers communicating between them. _

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a group of tools aimed at the interconnectivity of physical devices over the Internet, allowing them to gather and share data. These devices range from home appliances to industrial sensors and wearables. The essential idea is to give these objects the ability to communicate and intelligence so they can communicate between themselves and with central systems. For HVAC-R systems, IoT brings a considerable number of benefits that improve operational performance, increase power efficiency, streamline predictive maintenance, and exponentially increase the end-user’s experience.

This is so true that most equipment and components manufacturers are adding them to their production. Furthermore, operating with open protocols, they offer access to the exchange between several brands and technologies.

_IoT use facilitates the real-time monitoring of HVAC-R systems. _

We have presented at over 20 fairs throughout the year and all over the world since many years ago. The experiences acquired on these trips help us see different trends in the HVAC-R market. And one of them was connectivity, in how the Internet of Things has become a tremendous ally in our industry. We see an increasing demand for the introduction of new technologies to help the decision-making process from the start of the project through its execution and, finally, following up on the facilities' day-to-day work. All of this facilitates access to information, whether locally or remotely, following up on and suggesting process improvements.

Several actions are already allowed with the current tools. However, we are free to imagine new uses for them. When the equipment has Full Gauge Controls instruments installed, they are already power efficient since the control and the load performance are more precise, electronic, and digital. Upon monitoring and managing through the Sitrad PRO software, using the benefits of IoT, this precision and efficiency increase considerably since the expert, the user responsible for maintenance, and the owner of the business access real-time information, avoiding deviations such as cold chamber open door, predictive and preventive maintenance, etc. IoT use facilitates the real-time follow-up of HVAC-R systems, meaning another considerable benefit is the connectivity. When you receive alarms, for example, or generate reports for facilities and equipment located anywhere in the world, with only a few cellphone screen touches, it is using IoT in your favor. Even though it has been discussed for years, the IoT's influence in automating refrigeration systems still has much room for exploration. As developers and manufacturers, we are challenged to make our solutions reach the top of the chain in HVAC-R.

Sometimes, the installed hardware is old and requires an update. Even though this is a current topic with a lot of published information, it demands continuous work in our Applications Engineering team, with an excellent training program, with the staff from Communications & Marketing promoting everything in 360º.

Talking about Internet of Things (IoT) is also talking about cybersecurity. We have considered this topic since the first Sitrad software version, created in 1997, and I would say even before that. We always use closed protocols for higher users’ safety and security. We have applied improvements with each new version over the years, such as cryptographed databanks. We carry that DNA into the project development for new products, brands, and patents registration, information security handled internally, etc. All these safeguards reflect the quality of the solutions we have delivered to the HVAC-R market since 1985.

_Rodnei Peres, Commercial deputy director of Full Gauge Controls. _