Not long ago, in the midst of the dot-com technology revolution, many promises were made about new technologies that transform operations. This is evident with mobile telephony; from the landline to the mobile, which now even includes the internet.

I am emphasising the Blackberry here. It is a different world today, where many of these promises are coming true and available in our homes. This is now the ‘true world of technology without trenches.’

Some call it Smart Homes or Intelligent Houses.  For some it may be something as simple as remote or automatic control of a few lights, while others, security or climate control may be the central application.

Still others may choose to install advanced controllers or use voice recognition especially for security systems. As a very basic definition, we tend to refer to home automation as anything that gives you remote or automatic control of things around the home.

Imagine sitting in your living room feeling a little chilly and picking up the same remote you use to control the Home Theatre to turn the heat up and turn the music down. 

From this same remote you turn the lights up to read and press another button to de-ice your sidewalks or anything electric while you enjoy your book.

Even the automatic gates will tell the convenience when there is no need to horn while at the door way. For those who live in dangerous areas, this would save you from being robbed, while getting out of the car to open up the gates.

It is absolute convenience. One may think this is luxury for the rich, but automation is now a practical technology for all types of homes at all price ranges.  The difference could be the product authenticity, durability and brand.

Of course expect the Sony, Sharp, Toshiba, Phillips, Pioneer and the newly introduced LG to be expensive.  However, living in a house that is not automated will soon or later be like watching a TV without a remote control today.

Considering the cost of matching with technology, it maybe expansive but cheap over time. For example in case of a gate keeper, the cost of paying one for four years maybe the cost of acquiring an automated gate for two year.

Remember his is a human being, who feeds, gets sick and deserves rest unlike the machine. Despite the disadvantages that bend largely towards costing, home automation is worth it.

Whatever your automation project might be, using it will make life around the home more convenient, safe and fun!  It should be what you want it to be and appreciate technology.

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