IFA - for business only or fun for nerds too?
 

Considering visiting IFA when I'm in Berlin next month. Not looking to make any deals, just want to see the latest and greatest technology. Was wondering if it was worth stopping here.

Are there exhibits that are off-limits to normal consumers (like for trade visitors only)?

I visited some years ago and everything was open to consumers.

Yes, IFA is open to the public.
You can even purchase tickets online in advance.
Just have a look here: http://b2c.ifa-berlin.de/Tickets/TicketsEnglish/
But those tickets do not include public transport.

I would recommend to buy an admission ticket including public transportation on the day of your visit (unless you already have a day-/week/-monthly ticket for public transport).
Admission incl. transportation tickets are sold through the BVG ticket vending machines - almost everywhere there is a tram/U-Bahn/S-Bahn station (and even at Tegel airport although it is served by busses only).