Similar to the Mini Controller the IR Controller allows you to operate up to 16 modules via an infrared remote control and 8 modules via its own buttons on the unit. The modules can be either switched on/off or in the case of lights dimmed. There is also the facility to switch everything on or off...

It arrived as stated, 3 days after ordering, in a jiffy bag, which contained the board, and a comprehensive set of instructions. I ordered the assembled version, as I didn't imagine that I would have the time (or the inclination!) to assemble a kit myself. (Plus it has been about 12 years since I last picked up soldering iron!) So everything I say about this device refers to the assembled version...

I use the stereo in the car when I'm driving to and from work to listen to the local fm radio, and when I'm travelling any further I tend to have a talkie book on cassette. When I recently changed my car I got a CD player thrown in, but only afterwards realised that I couldn't plug my tape adaptor into the new stereo. I've recently spent ages converting mp3 and cassette audio books onto MDLP, which is much more portable than lugging multiple cassettes (or audio CDs) about. I normally plug the Minidisc player into a cassette adaptor and listen away...

So now you have got HomeVision/Comfort to turn your lights on during these dark winter evenings before you arrive home, what do you do about the curtains? Leaving them closed during the day or open at nights (with the lights on) is an obvious sign to anyone that you aren't home. Having looked into various automated curtain systems (including some home grown suggestions) I opted for the Swish Autoglide...

The unit allows you to record your existing CD's into a MP3 format, which are held on an internal 20.4 GB Quantum hard drive. According to the manufacturer, at 160 Kps, you should be able to record approximately 280 hours or 5600 songs. This I have found to be a bit optimistic. Using the 160 Kps, I expect to hold about 4500 songs, still a lot of music...

The Pico TH-03 is a cool bit o' kit in my book, it allows the measurement of temperature, light, if doors are open etc with the appropriate plug in sensor. Each TH-03 has 3 ports or channels that sensors can plug into and although the sensors themselves come with a 5m lead, each sensor can be up to 100m away (you can buy extension leads) from the TH-03 unit. Couple this with something like the RocketPort serial hub units (review coming) and the distance is almost unlimited...

The "Secret Switch" operates by detecting movement near a wire antenna, designed to be sunk into a wall, hidden behind a tile or anywhere else you can imagine...