Sensor networks and data streams: Basics

Recent advances in pervasive computing and sensor technologies have significantly influenced the field of geosciences, by changing the type of dynamic environmental phenomena that can be detected, monitored, and reacted to. Another important aspect is the real-time data delivery of novel platforms. In this chapter, we describe the specific characteristics of sensor data and sensor networks. Furthermore, we identify the most promising streaming models, which can be embedded in intelligent sensor platforms and used to mine real-time data for a variety of analytical insights.