Jake Brodsky
Sep 8, 2018 · 1 min read

First, Programmable Logic Controllers aren’t “legacy.” The market continues to grow. Custom machines with regularly changing programs will always need a PLC.

Second, IoT isn’t new. For the last 20 years we have been embedding controllers in to all sorts of things from instruments, to substation switch-gear, two way radios, and so forth. The price point continues to drop. Embedded continue to make inroads in all sorts of things from ovens, washing machines, hot water heaters, refrigerators, and yes, thermostats.

The problem is the backlash from people who understand their privacy is melting away. I don’t want some nosy neighbor knocking on my door complaining that I’m not saving the world because my home is too warm. Perhaps my aging mother is staying with me for a few days and she needs to be warmer. I shouldn’t have to justify this sort of thing to some lame-brained activist who somehow was able to look up my data on the internet.

And yet, that’s exactly where IoT is going. These devices are indiscriminate as to who they will talk to. We fell for that trick in our mobile phones. We’re not going to fall for it again.

IoT will die on the vine unless the issue of security and full disclosure of what the device does is solved.

    Jake Brodsky

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    I am one of those right wing conservative, married white fathers. Happy, not angry; armed, not dangerous; educated, but always a student.