The latest advances in home automation

Remember the days when remote-controlled appliances like your television and video recorder seemed high-tech? The latest advances in home automation technology will have you feeling like you're stepping into space.

These days homes are turning clever - very clever - and it's all courtesy of what have been labelled 'integrated home systems'. With a variety of components, they can do everything from controlling your lights and airconditioning remotely to providing a keyless entry facility and incorporate a complete home theatre system that makes going to the movies seem so 'yesterday'.

We investigated a few of the capabilities of these systems, which are designed to boost the ease, enjoyment and even energy efficiency of your home:

Automated lights: An integrated system can make searching around in the dark for a light switch a thing of the past. Automated lights that feature sensors work by movement, low light levels and even time-of-day schedules. So when you enter a room, provided the natural light is dim enough, they flick on. And when you leave, they gently fade away, which is not only clever, it's energy efficient as well.

Automated appliances: Working on the same principle as automated lights, appliances like exhaust fans, heated towel rails, irons and even airconditioning units can be automated, reacting to everything from steam or temperature to time and when you lock the front door, meaning you don't have to worry about remembering to switch things on and off 

Electric blinds and curtains: These systems go one step further than never having to pull a curtain manually again - not only can you close any or all of your curtains via a single wall panel, you can also set them to react automatically to low light levels or to pre-set schedules.

Remote control: No, we're not talking about the old-fashioned type, we're talking about being able to control everything from your airconditioning and ceiling fans to your security and even opening your front door via your mobile phone. So even if you're grocery shopping, at the office or even the beach, you can keep control of what's happening at home.

Home theatre systems: If you thought a plasma TV screen was impressive, you'll love this - a home theatre system that has everything from a one-stop-shop control centre - so you can manipulate everything from the movie to the lights and sound, and even the room temperature from a single panel - to a projector screen that automatically lowers and retracts in line with your movie schedule. 

Contact a home automation specialist in your area and find out how you can get wireless technology in your home: