The new VideoEase Active Component Video Balun Kit from Muxlab sends component plus infra red control signals across a single CAT5e / CAT6 cable. The system is rated at around 150 metres for a 1080P signal and over 300 metres at 480p and is shipping now...

We've been running a 10/100 Ethernet switch in the Automated Home since we moved in nearly 10 years ago.  With more devices on the LAN - currently nearing 40 IP address used (see the list below) and with ever larger files moving around our network, the time has come to upgrade to a 10/100/1000 gigabit switch...

Producers of high-end PC based media centers - Niveus, have just launched their new "Zone" multi-room media solution.  The Core 2 Duo powered machine allows you to link to multiple ZONEs to play your media in any room of the house. Is small form factor and low noise levels will appeal and with it's built in slot-loading blu-ray player it's got a march on the competition.  Starting from $1,500 it's still not exactly cheap, but definitely interesting.  Video and full release after the jump...

The OpenRemote guys have been pretty busy over the last few months.  From launching their new website and Twitter feed, to publishing a new YouTube channel.  But perhaps most tantalisingly this weeks blog post for the open source project shows prototype hardware up and running - sending commands from an iPhone, across Wi-Fi and out of their ORB hardware device to an IR signal.  Even more interesting it promises that "two more weeks or so and you'll be able to try it out for yourself"  Watch the video after the jump and read on for more information on this open source project and all the links...

Sling Media have just announced that they have finally submitted the SlingPlayer Mobile iPhone player to Apple for approval on the iTunes apps store.  Soon iPhone users will be able to stream their own content - either live TV channels, or if their SlingBox is connected to their PVR, then recorded shows too...

Cytech Europe Limited is the UK distributor of the Comfort Intelligent Home System that incorporates an intruder alarm system, a home automation system that can control lighting, appliances, heating and airconditioning, an 8 mailbox voicemail system and doorphone intercom system.  "Comfigurator" is the software to program the system, and V3.0 has just been released for download...

The iPhone and iPod Touch continue to prove themselves the platform of choice for Home Automation developers.  Now high-end Smart Home company Crestron have released their own app that allows management and control of climate, lighting, shades and security systems over Wi-Fi and even the cellular network...

Need to to know when a vehicle enters your property?  Want a solution thats easily retro fitted in your home?  Then the $99 Dakota Alert Wireless Rubber Hose Driveway Sensor may be for you...

The Popcorn Hour A110 has been available for a few months now and we're hearing good things about.  Unlike many other streaming media players (think Apple TV, PS3 etc) the PCH's hardware handles full 1080P HiDef without any issues...

Philips have just added the TSU9300 Pronto to their site.  The new universal remote has a flush mounted 2.8 inch colour touchscreen.  As with the rest of the TSU Pronto range, it includes WiFi and supports Escient, Imerge,  Windows Media Center and the the Lutron RadioRa lighting system out of the box...