NODE (wireless sensor)
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| Developer | Variable Inc. |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Variable Inc. |
| Type | Handheld sensor platform |
| Connectivity | USB, Bluetooth 2.1 Bluetooth 4.0 low energy |
| Dimensions | 1 inch in diameter by 3.75 inches wide |
| Website | variableinc |
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]
NODE+ 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.