Log Home Automation? Excuse Me?

rst hearing the term "home automation", most logcalled ActiveHome Professional (learn more here).
home owners will say something like... I didn't buildAfter programming by your computer, an
a rustic log home to turn it into a high-tech, siliconinterface box communicates with your appliances
powered "smart building".through your home's electrical wires. You can
I couldn't agree more, the ever-changingprogram the system to do amazing things using
technology of our fast-paced, hyper get-aheadthe ActiveHome Pro software. It is possible to
world is one of the things most of us were tryinglower your energy bills by developing schedules
to leave behind. But don't let misinformation (orfor lights and appliances.
misunderstanding) keep you from achieving yourYou can download a plug-in from X10 that permits
original goal of simplifying your life.modules to operate on an "if-then" basis. For
Most of us can recall the first time we felt theinstance... if a room is dark and motion is
excitement of making a light turn on with a timer,detected, lights can be turned on in sequence, or
or changed channels on our TV with a remotemusic can play (or an alarm can activate). You are
control. A home automation system is aboutlimited only by your imagination. In fact, X10 also
automating everyday tasks like those whileoffers a free software development kit that can
getting the most from our energy dollars andinterface with your e-mail. The point is, you can
protecting our home. Further good news is thatuse the command modules to perform basic
we don't have to call in the professionals to makefunctions or get as creative as you want.
it all happen.ABC Television's Popular Show Extreme
Today's home automation products are effortlessMakeover Home Edition has a reputation for
to set up, even for non-geeks, and the cost isfinding and showcasing the latest technology into
amazingly inexpensive. A typical starter kit, whichthe homes they remodel and build. The X10
includes home automation software severalActiveHome Pro products have been featured on
modules, remote controls and sensors is less thanthe show.
$100. Also, one of the best features of theseSo, you may have chosen to escape the city by
systems is that you don't have to leave yourbuilding a log home in the country, but inserting a
computer turned on for everything to worklittle technology in the mix will help you achieve
(additional modules for lamps and appliances costyour dream of simplifying your life. Its never been
as little as $15).easier or more affordable to put home
A company called X10 is the leader in inexpensiveautomation to work.
home automation products and offers a product