Home automation - It's no place like home

Recent developments in networking standards and marketing alliances are driving the home automation market forward, and providing a platform for some intriguing new applications. One of the most interesting developments in home automation is the progress of the Zigbee Alliance, a consortium of companies that is developing a low-power wireless networking standard for the control devices used in factories, offices and homes. Another important development is the increasing convergence of IT and consumer electronics industries. Issues concerning interoperability, however, will first need to be addressed before consumers can truly enjoy content