NODE (wireless sensor)
NODE+ is a first-generation handheld wireless sensor platform developed by Variable Inc. The device measures approximately 1 inch in diameter and 3.75 inches in length and communicates with mobile devices using Bluetooth 4.0 Low Energy technology.[1][2] As of September 2014, NODE+ supported 16 interchangeable sensor modules capable of detecting variables such as color, gases, ambient temperature, barometric pressure, motion, and surface temperature.[3] The platform includes an open application programming interface (API) for software developers.[4] A commercial license from Variable Inc. is required for the development of commercial applications that utilize NODE+ sensors. NODE+ has been adopted in educational settings through a partnership with Vernier Software & Technology and is used in classrooms and research institutions.[5][6] It has also been employed in industrial Internet of Things (IoT) applications.[7] The device is manufactured in the United States.[8] HistoryNODE+ was developed in 2011 by George Yu in Chattanooga, Tennessee.[9] Before founding Variable Technologies LLC (later Variable Inc.), Yu was involved in research and development projects for NASA and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.[10] On 23 March 2012, NODE+ raised $76,340 through a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign, exceeding its $50,000 goal.[11] A subsequent campaign for CHROMA, a color-sensing module, raised $39,473 on 7 December 2012, also surpassing its target.[12] Variable Inc. opened a second Knoxville, Tennessee office in December 2012. This office handles business development and government relations.[13][14] In June 2013, NODE+ was demonstrated at the Cisco Live U.S. event in Orlando, Florida, during a presentation on Internet of Things (IoT) strategies.[15] In September 2013, Variable Inc. released an Android-compatible version of the NODE+ platform.[16] The device had been only iOS compatible. A third Kickstarter campaign, launched in late 2013 for the NODE+CO2 module—part of the OXA gas sensor family—raised $26,046, slightly above its goal.[17] In June 2014, Variable Inc. launched a software development competition titled "HACKANODE." As of September 2018, NODE+ no longer appears to be commercially available. HardwareThe NODE+ base unit includes a 9-axis motion engine (3-axis gyroscope, 3-axis accelerometer, and 3-axis magnetometer), 16MB of onboard storage, and two module ports. It supports Bluetooth 2.1 and Bluetooth Low Energy connectivity and includes a micro-USB charging port. The device contains a crypto chip within the firmware and features dimmable blue LEDs. Its lithium-polymer battery supports approximately 12–14 hours of continuous Bluetooth use and up to 54 days in standby mode.[18] Mobile applications
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