Convenience and security are the greatest benefits offered by home automation systems. With the ability to control many functions from a single keypad, remote or even by phone, you need never walk into a dark house again. Likewise, when it's time to go to sleep, one button can shut off all the lights, and draw motorized drapes. Those with large or two-story homes, will really appreciate the steps they save. Home automation is also helpful for those who spend a lot of time away: it can turn lights, radios or tvs on and off at pre-set times, water plants, and even feed your dog or cat with an automatic pet feeder. Not only is this convenient, it's a great way to make burglars think you're home. You'll also find security devices like outdoor video cameras, that send images to a monitor inside the home. Motion detectors and infra-red sensors can flip on a light when motion is sensed, or guard the boundaries of your property with an invisible beam. There are even versions that mount on the mailbox, which will turn on house lights and announce your guests, when they pull in the drive.
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