# The Impact of Cloud Versus Local Infrastructure on Automatic IoT-Driven Hydroponic Systems
## 1 Introduction
### IoT Sensors and Actuators in Hydroonic Systems  
Studies [34; 35] have shown the importance of the calibration process in the hydroponic context. These studies have highlighted the need to recalibrate pH and EC sensors periodically. Otherwise, the measurements of these sensors may drift due to temperature fluctuations and deposits on the sensor surface. The calibration process compares the sensor readings with a standard. The process itself involves adjusting the sensor output to this standard. For pH sensors, the process uses buffer solutions with specific pH values [36; 37]. Similarly, EC sensors are calibrated using solutions with known conductivities [35]. Failure to follow the calibration protocol generates erroneous readings. The consequence of this attitude affects nutrient management strategies [38]. Integrating IoT technology with sensors has greatly improved nutrient monitoring in hydroponic systems [39]. IoT-based solutions enable remote supervision and control of nutrient mixtures, allowing for real-time adjustments in response to changes in nutrient levels or environmental conditions [40]. These setups typically combine sensors that monitor pH, EC, temperature, and other key parameters, providing a comprehensive view of the nutrient solution's status [41]. Automation in hydroponics is further enhanced by using actuators that respond to sensor feedback, enabling precise control over nutrient dosing and the recirculation of the solution. Pumps, valves, and dosing systems are included in the category of actuators operating in agriculture. The primary function of actuators in hydroponic systems is the controlled release of the correct amounts of nutrients. Studies [42; 43] have shown that hydraulic ram pumps are the most suitable for hydroponic systems due to the way their valves are designed [44]. In the context of automation, the synchronization between sensors and actuators influences the reaction speed of the hydroponic system as a whole [45]. For example, microfluidic systems improve the performance of nutrient dosing through precision, and they are released based on data provided by sensors [46]. These systems can mimic the functions of vascularized tissues, allowing the transport of nutrients to specific locations within a substrate or biological system [47]. Biohybrid actuators combine biological components with synthetic materials, allowing them to respond to environmental stimuli dynamically [48; 49; 50; 51]. Smart hydrogels also represent another research direction regarding the adaptability of nutrient delivery systems in hydroponic systems [52; 53]. Additionally, intelligent polymer-based actuators have been researched to automate hydroponic systems. These actuators respond to triggering events, such as the change in pH or temperature [54; 55]. Automating nutrient addition based on sensor feedback in hydroponic systems can significantly impact crop yields. For example, integrating nutrient solution sensors with delivery systems enables the precise adjustment of fertilizers to meet the specific requirements of the crops [56]. Several studies have investigated IoT-driven hydroponic systems. Despite all this, there is a notable lack of comparative analysis in the literature between practical cloud -based solutions and their local counterparts. Additionally, there are no studies in the literature that focus exclusively on the performance indicators of each infrastructure, which would enable a relevant comparative analysis. To prevent this gap in the literature, the present research aims to evaluate the two concrete infrastructure proposals through seven performance indicators. This research provides practical insights for agricultural digitalization. To clarify the key elements of the research, the following Research Questions (RQs) are proposed:  
* RQ1: What are the configuration differences specific to each type of hydroponic infrastructure, both at the hardware and software levels, in a cloud versus local approach?