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Verified Information • Last Updated Mar 2026
Internet of Things: Sensing and Actuation From Devices
Have you wondered how information from physical devices in the real world gets communicated to Smartphone processors? Do you want to make informed design decisions about sampling frequencies and bit-width requirements for various kinds of sensors? Do you want to gain expertise to affect the real world with actuators such as stepper motors, LEDs and generate notifications?
In this course, you will learn to interface common sensors and actuators to the DragonBoard™ 410c hardware. You will then develop software to acquire sensory data, process the data and actuate stepper motors, LEDs, etc. for use in mobile-enabled products. Along the way, you’ll learn to apply both analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog conversion concepts.
Learning Goals: After completing this course, you will be able to:
1. Estimate sampling frequency and bit-width required for different sensors.
2. Program GPIOs (general purpose input/output pins) to enable communication between the DragonBoard 410c and common sensors.
3. Write data acquisition code for sensors such as passive and active infrared (IR) sensors, microphones, cameras, GPS, accelerometers, ultrasonic sensors, etc.
4. Write applications that process sensor data and take specific actions, such as stepper motors, LED matrices for digital signage and gaming, etc.
Duration
7 Months
Institution
University of California San Diego
Format
Online
Eligibility Criteria
school
Academic Foundation
A recognized Bachelor’s degree or high school equivalent required for admission into University of California San Diego.
language
Language Proficiency
English proficiency required. IELTS, TOEFL, or standard medium-of-instruction certificates accepted.
Detailed Fees Breakdown
Base Tuition Fee
$270
Total Est. Investment
$270
Scholarships and early-bird waivers may apply. Contact admissions for exact institutional fees.
Academic Trajectory
Program Outcome
Graduates of the Internet of Things: Sensing and Actuation From Devices program at University of California San Diego are equipped with global perspectives, ready to excel in international markets and top-tier career opportunities.