When it comes to home automation X10 is pretty much the standard protocol. You can connect all kinds of modules to all kinds of control stations and even build your own modules. Hack a Day shows a DIY guide to build an engine to remotely (or automated) open and close your blinds. It looks like a lot of work and you probably could use some technical know-how but nothing beats a home brew X10 module. If do-it-yourself isn't your cup of tea you could browse Amazon for all kinds of modules (...)  read more

The remote control of the Nintendo Wii (Wiimote) uses Bluetooth technology to connect to the console. But with a Bluetooth USB Dongle for about $18,- you can just as easily make it interact with your PC. There are several free software solutions to put the Wiimote to action on your computer (which we will come back to in later posts) and BlueTunes is one of them. It lets you control Windows Media Player, iTunes, Winamp or Napster with the buttons and even the motion sense of the Wiimote. Downloads, (...)  read more

In the car industry this little gadget is old news: a remote control key. But somehow most people are still struggling with their shopping bags in one hand and about 20 keys in the other if they want to open the front door. LOCCA is selling a do-it-yourself kit so you can make any door swing open with the push of a button. It has a range of 50 meters and can store up to 19 keys. Obviously you'll have to install special receivers on you doors but LOCCA claims the installation is a breeze.If those (...)  read more

It looks like technicians are finally understanding that building technology is only part one and making it easy for people to communicate with it is just as important. Nintendo is on top of the sales charts with it revolutionary Wii motion control and DS touch and sound control, Apple introduced the 'pinching' and 'sweeping' on the iPhone and Microsoft Surface makes a table understand what you put on it and interact with it. We all know the clap-to-turn-of-light-switch and (...)  read more