Analyzing data to infer protocol and device characteristics

Back to the number-one rule in IoT analytics: Never trust data you don't know.

You need to get to know your data. Just like that new guy you just met, you Google him, ask around about him, and do a criminal background check (we know you do) before agreeing to go to dinner with him.

Here is a step-by-step strategy to start to understand the source of the data:

1. Draw a picture of the device: Sketch it out or use blueprints if you have them. This is where you make friends with the design engineer and ask her some questions. Draw the key sensors in the place they are located and note the sensor type and any limitations. Ask about any environmental conditions that affect accuracy and note it.
2. Find out how the device connects to a network: Note the connectivity type on your sketch.
3. Determine what data messaging protocol...