Product Description

Linux users can now control their homes remotely! Are you a Linux user who has ever wanted to turn on the lights in your house, or open and close the curtains, while away on holiday? Want to be able to play the same music in every room, controlled from your laptop or mobile phone? Do you want to do these things without an expensive off-the-shelf kit?

Customer Reviews (5)

The fine links between computer and home systems make for a real winner, here!
Smart Home Automation with Linux: Learn How to Connect Your Home from Your PC is written for Linux professionals who would automate a home using Linux. Automatic includes reading TV schedules digitally and using them to program a video remotely through email or the Web, and streaming music between different machines. The fine links between computer and home systems make for a real winner, here!

Great Book
Smart Home Automation with Linux by Steven Goodwin had exactly what I hoped for when I ordered it.This book takes you through the basic process of automating various aspects of your home from scratch.They focus primarily on the X10 protocol for device control while giving a bit of attention to some other alternatives like C-bus.The author then goes on to cover a wide range of topics such as specific devices to buy for an X10 setup, how to architect your installation, appliance hacking, focusing on the software that glues the system together, and systems such as Minerva which can be used to manage a lot of the aspects of home automation.

I found this book to be a great read for filling in my knowledge of what is available and what sort of expertise will be needed for making a good home automation system and I feel like I will get even more out of it when I have the opportunity (and money) to begin automating my home.

Great writer who serious knows the subject.
I have been using linux for years now and always wanted to do some "smart home" type of projects over the years.
Having done all kinds of work over the years and being the proverbial "jack of all trades" type I have to say this book has blown me away. You can tell right off the bat that Steven really knows this subject. So much so that after reading the first chapter I had to go back and re-read his bio again just to understand where he is coming from and what he has done to know so much. He makes it all so easy and completely answers all the questions you might have before you have even realized you might have one.

This is incredibly well written and totally accessible to even those without the tech background one might assume would be required for a subject of this nature. I have to say he made it fun to read even before you realized you were learning new things. You can see his humor when he thanks his parents for his first automated home, the one that always cleaned itself and cooked his meals. I can easily recommend this to anyone wanting to find out about this subject matter, you cant go wrong and would be hard pressed to find someone more knowledgeable on the subject matter.

I can already tell I will be referring back to this book again and again over the next few years as I attempt to automate every last darn thing I can afford to. Lord knows this book alone has probably already saved me a few hundred bucks and helped me figure out whats the best way to get started on this path as cheaply as possible.

If your interested in Automating or building your own smart home and not scared to learn a bit along the way, this is your bible. If your seeking to learn and really want to get as much knowledge on the subject as possible and looking to do it with linux everywhere possible. This is the ultimate book on the subject I would even go so far as to say you only need this book in your library to be able to do truly amazing things.

An Excellent Open Source Toolbox for Home Automation
Home Automation also known as "Domotics" is one of the great unifying themes, and one of the most useful applications of Information Technology and Smart Electronics in the early 21st Century.Combining elements of Embedded Computing, Control Systems, Digital Electronics, Ubiquitous/Pervasive Computing & Entertainment/Communications Technology there is much to be learned and applied in all of these fields through consulting this handbook.While one can, at tremendous expense purchase a ready-made answer to Automating their Home Communications, Security, Entertainment, Lighting and HVAC consulting this
"Toolkit" will enable the Do-It-Yourself or Computing Enthusiast to design the custom solution directed at their needs at reasonable cost and while learning a great deal of engaging technology.The approach of the author, an expert in Linux-based home automation and principal author of the Open-Source Home Automation Scripting Environment "Minerva" gives you the tools to customize whichever parts of your Lighting, HVAC, Communications or Security Environment you wish to place under Automated Control.In doing so he provides the tools to understand many pieces of leading edge Information Technology; in particular the "User" employing this handbook will gain an in-depth knowledge of Embedded Computing Solutions, Linux and Arduino-based control systems; they will also learn the combination of Intelligent Controllers, Sensors and Actuators that will create tomorrow's Smart Buildings and Ubiquitous Computing Environment.The Scripting Languages, Shell-based Commands, and Web Scraping Software Technologies that are described and exemplified in this book are accessible, can be easily customized to individual needs and widely useful in a number of computing applications.

I highly recommend this book to anyone who wishes to automate particular aspects of their "Home and Castle".It also will serve as an education in Home Automation and many practical applications of Information Technology beyond the Home or Office Desktop.

--Ira Laefsky MSE/MBA
IT & HCI Consutant/Researcher and Former Senior Staff of Arthur D. Little, Inc. and Digital Equipment Corporation

Benefit from the Author's Home Automation Experience
You can easily invest a lot of time and money into Home Automation (HA) projects only to find they don't work as anticipated.This book records the extensive experience of the author in HA and a hence could be a good investment to help you avoid or at least reduce frustration and improve your chances of successfully and enjoyably harnessing hardware and software to improve your quality of life.To gain the maximum benefit from this book, you need to be competent at installing hardware and wiring it up as well as doing web page development and scripting.Linux/Open Source Software is the main HA vehicle covered for a number of reasons- the inheritance from Unix of applications doing one thing and doing it well, the ability to use scripts to integrate key applications, and finally the ability to customise applications to your needs due to the ready availablity of source code.While there are plenty of illustrative snippets of code throughout the book, there are no complete examples provided, nor are copies of the source code provided from the publisher's site.You may find this acceptable given everyone's home automation solutions are unique, but I'm sure many would appreciate seeing how a HA solution is integrated. Then again, perhaps the author was concerned about the security risk to his HA implementation! To the author's credit, security concerns are regularly addressed throughout the book.Comprising just 7 chapters, with no appendices and an adequate index, this book still does a commendable job of covering the many aspects anyone planning HA needs to consider before investing in any hardware.

The first chapter jumps straight into how to use X10 hardware to control electrical appliances and lighting with plenty of practical information for those interested in setting up their home using this protocol.Other competing or complementary techniques, i.e. C-Bus, Ethernet and InfraRed are also briefly covered.

Chapter 2 looks at how to hack appliances such as game consoles, Linux powered WiFi Routers and NAS devices (with particular attention given to the Slug aka NSLU2, laptops, Arduino, Lego Mindstorms) and includes links to relevant hacking sites.

Media has chapter 3 dedicated to it; how to source your media, extract, store, distribute and control it.

Considerations on the best way to wire your home and locate servers and access points are covered in chapter 4, based on the more difficult two storey dwelling scenario.Irrespective of your dwelling construction, there are plenty of points raised in this chapter for consideration to help you implement a reliable, non-intrusive and reasonably secure HA solution.

Chapter 5 covers the various communications technologies that can be used to good effect for your HA implementation, with IP Telephony (Skype and Asterisk), email, voice, web access, and SMS all included.Techiques on how to process email, web and SMS based communications are covered, including suggestions on how to reduce the risk of security breaches.

I found chapter 6 on Data Sources particularly interesting, with the author covering ownership and the associated legal issues with personal use and how these become even more restrictive with family use and wider distribution. The chapter then goes on to look at how you can collect useful public data to assist your daily life, such as access to public transport time tables, traffic, weather, TV and Radio content and how you can use these with private data from calendars, webmail, Twitter and Facebook for personal automation.

Of particular interest for those skilled in coding, the final chapter covers how to integrate HA technologies with Minerva, showing in detail how to configure Minerva and its components to provide a secure HA solution that requires minimal maintenance by using device and application abstractions.

While there are no appendices, the book has an adequate index, but the real gems can best be found by reading through the book.Thanks to a reference in chapter 6, I finally found some Linux logging software for my weather station! ... Read more

Product Description
Do you long to listen to your favorite CD from anywhere in your house? To set up a wireless network so you can access the Internet in any room? To install an iron-clad security system? To fire up the coffee pot while you’re still asleep and wake up with automated lighting? Smart home technology can help you do just that!

Smart Homes For Dummies, Third Edition, shows you how easy it can be to create and live in a cutting-edge, fully connected home—without breaking your bank account. With this user-friendly guide, you’ll discover all the latest trends and gadgets in home networking, automation, and control that will help you make life more enjoyable and comfortable for your entire family. We help you plan for things such as flat-screen TVs, intercom systems, whole-home audio systems, gaming consoles, and satellite systems. We talk about your wiring (and wireless) options and introduce you to the latest technologies, such as VoIP and Bluetooth. You’ll see how to:

• Build your home network on a budget
• Turn your home into an entertainment center
• Access the Internet from any room
• Get VoIP on your phone network
• Boost in-home wireless and cell phone signals
• Connect your computer to your TV
• Secure your home and property
• Increase your home’s resale value
• Avoid common networking pitfalls
• And much, much more

Complete with a resource list for more information and neat toys of the future, Smart Homes For Dummies is your plain-English, twenty-first century guide to a fully wired home! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (44)

Brilliant introduction to home electronics industry
Some readers commented that there is not actually enough information on "how to actually do something" or "home automation".That's true.There could be more of this stuff, but if they were, the book would probably not be for "dummies", any more.Not meaning that stuff is too technical, but it would require a lot more pages, and the Dummies series probably doesn't allow this.There are whole courses on those subjects from CEDIA.

Anyhow, I find that the book is a treasure for information on what is available today to ensure you are up to date with the latest technology (at the time of writing).It enabled me to update my home system in ways I did not think possible.I thought I was doing well, until I read the book.One really good thing I like about the book, too, is that it mentions companies and products that are available for the area of discussion.Something as seemingly simple as introducing me to baluns, is a point worth noting.I always thought I'd have to get really long line level cables for long runs.Also, I thought a "zone" was simply somewhere where I've run speaker wire from my receiver, where it would have to play the one source that was playing.I didn't know there were specially built multi-zone/multi-source amps out there and that Russound and Niles Audio were even companies.These are simple examples of how you can learn new stuff by reading the book.Of course, there are so may others.I have done so many upgrades since reading this book.e.g. my Roku Soundbridge (never knew it existed until reading the book), my D-Link DMA (which is now my most used piece of equipment, outside of the tv and receiver), my Russound whole home audio upgrade.That's just to name three.

Bottom line, if you want to increase your home electronics/automation knowledge, you cannot go wrong with this book.You will not become a CEDIA ESC after reading, but you'll be on your way!

I'm not that dumb after all
This is the first 'dummies' book I've ever read.You can read the book from "start to finish" (as I did) or jump around the chapters that may interest you.While it did provide some interesting information which certainly helped me, it also provided page after page of pointless repetition.I'm wondering who the publishers think their market might be, it's not so much for 'dummies' but more for the 'utterly stupid' who probably wouldn't be reading the book in the first place.

My advice is just Google something like "Cabling for Smart Homes" or "Wiring for Smart homes" and you'll get all the info you need without having to suffer wading through a lot of the tripe found in this publication.

I'm not sure I know what I expected...
...but I didn't get much out of this book.Much of what was in it - I already do (for example, I have a home network with a central "server computer").I was hoping it would cover more about automating lighting and compare different methods/systems...

Anyway, it also lacks much of the humor I normally find in "dummies" books - so it was pretty dry reading.

Bottom line - not very impressed.

Not as informative as I hoped it would be
I assumed this book would be about home automation, but it only briefly touches on that. It is mostly about wiring of distributed audio and video, which I didn't find very interesting.

The book does contain some interesting and useful information, but it could probably all be squeezed into about 30 pages.

The reader is directed to an an accompanying web site for up-to-date information, but the web site was last updated three years before the latest edition of the book was published.

Where's the beef
A good introductory book for understanding the options but not enough examples of how to use the technology in real life. ... Read more

Product Description

Get the home of tomorrow, today! Absolute Beginner's Guide to Home Automation will help you turn your ordinary home into a high-tech haven. Want to schedule your lights to turn on while you're on vacation? Stuck late at work and want to start the roast you put in the crock pot this morning? You can make it all happen with the help of existing 110V electrical wiring in your home and this step-by-step tutorial. Through simple, do-it-yourself instructions, you will walk through the process of outfitting every room in your home with a network connection that you can control with a few clicks on your computer keyboard. Complete with illustrations and photographs, Absolute Beginner's Guide to Home Automation will have you riding the wave of the future in no time.

Customer Reviews (2)

Good, but contains a VITAL mistake
Maybe it's the copy I'm reading, but on page 80, the author is completely (and quite possibly dangerously) wrong about the following point:

"If you are installing a light switch that uses a neutral wire ...
it is essential that you determine which wire is the load wire (carries
current at all times; also called the hot wire) and which is the
line wire (carries current only when the switch is off; also called
the switched-hot wire)"

NO! It should read as follows (emphasis on changed words):

"If you are installing a light switch that uses a neutral wire ...
it is essential that you determine which wire is the *LINE* wire (carries
current at all times; also called the hot wire) and which is the
*LOAD* wire (carries current only when the switch is *ON*; also called
the switched-hot wire)"

In the very next section he uses the correct terminology but that is most definitely a serious mistake in the book that could have serious consequences should somebody confuse the two.

make an overall plan first
The book is mostly about developing nifty controls using X10. In this field, X10 is by far the dominant controller. Soper explains why, by describing numerous varied ways to have it control items in the typical household. It is probably simpler to read this book than thumb through the official X10 documentation. Soper does not require that you have a deep technical background to implement the book's methods.

Aside from the specific automation methods, he also offers a chapter on planning what you might want to and be able to automate in your home. Here is where you can start, to devise an overall plan, in a top-down fashion, rather than plunge into hooking up one or two gadgets. That can come later. The chapter is good for helping decide, especially within the constraints of a budget, which surely applies to many readers.

The book also points out a strong point about the latest X10 devices. These can be wireless, hugely easing installation. No awkward and unsightly wires trailing along your floors and walls. ... Read more

Product Description
Demand for fully automated homes is growing so why not get a jump on this highly lucrative market? With this book, you can easily install the most modern systems and efficient for complete personal control of entertainment, temperature and light, water, communications, security, and more and satisfy the skyrocketing consumer demand for state-of-the-art home technology. Step by step, you'll learn how to put together these systems to deliver maximum programmed energy savings to your clients, not to mention great investment potential. Home Automation is an all-in-one, planning-and-how-to kit for creating dream homes of the future, not 5 years from now, not 10 years from now, but today. It shows you how to: compare the hottest technologies, using this book's lists, descriptions, and evaluations, from plug-and-play to custom designs; add interoperability, infrared, and radio systems; configure and install wiring and connections; create an advanced plumbing system, with automation, temperature-balancing, maximal efficiency, spas and pools, and automated watering of indoor and outdoor plants; automate heat, air conditioning, and ventilation for energy savings and comfort; design and install top-of-the-line communications, phones, intercoms, networks, and more; create exciting home entertainment systems; build cutting-edge security into your homes; design stunning, energy-efficient automated lighting; and market these new wares to an eagerly waiting public. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Out Of Date
I'm not very satisfied with this book.It's a very basic and also out of date version of Home Automation techniques.It takes a very basic approach to home automation and does not offer much helpful info about current techniques.

In serious need of update
With the pace home automation as been changing, this book should be considered "out of date" and hopefully soon be "out of print."While the author does seek to enlighten readers, the focus of the book is out-of-touch with main stream home automation thinking in 2002.Even the control systems referenced are no-longer near the cutting edge. While references to structured wiring still ring true, the techniques for reaching a total intregated system have changed.I was so disappointed with this book I actually returned to Amazon as I felt it could not enhance my library in any regard. As an alternative I would suggest "Home Automation for Dummies."

Not worth the paper its printed on
If there ever was a case for false advertising, this book takes it all the way.The back cover claims that after reading you will be able to install some of the most modern systems.This book is nothing more than a brief discussion about some of the things that can be automated in the home. The wiring that is covered in the book is juvenile at best.If I had previewed the book at a book store I most definitely would not have purchased book.Pass on this one.

Do not waste your money
When I purchased this book I was hoping to receive a manual discussing "Home Automation and Wiring" instead I received a mish mash of very low tech information. Out of 322 pages I found only 7 items that were remotely useful. The book has no cohesive flow, the author jumps from subject to subject. I would strongly recommend purchasing "Structured Wiring and Design Manual" by Robert N. Bucceri.

Not worth the money
The cover sure makes it look like this is a serious book with a lot of information. Too bad that notion disappears once you open it up. If you're looking to build a smart home and plan on doing some of the work yourself, this book won't help very much. You'll get a little information, but not enough to actually do the job on your own. If you want a smart home and are willing to hire someone to do it for you, then this book will at least tell you what words to use.

The best book I've read I've read so far is "Smart Homes for Dummies." It has significantly more detail and is useful for someone who wants to try to do this on their own. ... Read more

Product Description
Wow! If you've got the time and inclination, there isn't anything that cannot be automated in your home. This one-stop resource shows you step-by-step how to plan and install smart home systems using clear step-by-step instructions and illustrations. Discover projects for automating entertainment systems, home security systems, utilities and more. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Missing Info
This book is missing info about the control and equipment. How to cable the home is one thing, to make it all work is another, it's better to spend money on a contractor.

Lots of cool ideas
This is a fascinating book which gave me a lot of ideas for home improvement now and for my next home.Building a smart home is actually a pretty easy process, especially with a lot of the equipment which is currently available.The whole point of having a smart home is being able to control every aspect of your house regardless of where you are-be it in the next room or across the world.

Several sections are dedicated to designing, installing, and programming a home security system.This not only includes installing motion detectors, but also configuring your heating and cooling system to be remotely programmed, as well as your lights.Additional chapters cover projects for your garage and outside, kitchen and bathroom (how about a stove that shuts itself automatically when you forget or a toilet that is smart enough not to overflow), and even audio/visual systems and distribution mechanisms.

While smart homes may not be for everyone, there are a lot of cool ideas in this book.If you know (or are) someone who is interested in the idea of a smart home, you should definitely pick up a copy of this book.You'll find a lot of cool ideas as well as good advice for making your first smart home enhancements. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (11)

X10 For Beginners
I'm a SW developer and I just got this book because I was curious about HomeAutomation, I had no idea about it and this book really cleared my mind easy reading and amazingly easy to implement If you're a beginner I totally recommend it!

Interesting and Informative reading.
I am very into the X-10 gadgets and have been for several years. This book was intended for the average homeowner interested in inexpensive home security. The only thing it lacks is diagrams and layouts for the systems it covered.

Very Interesting Book: So many ideas, so little money!
This book presents a great variety of ideas for using the X10 protocol. I'm sure every reader will find several ideas or projects interesting enough to try.

Although I've been using X10 products for over five years, I have found this book to be a very useful reference. What I like about it is that it starts off with the very basics and move through to the esoteric ... something for everyone.

I recommend this book to the beginner or to the experienced. I'm glad I bought it: I refer to it all the time.

Occasional gem, but disappoints overall
"Smart Home Hacks" provides a basic introduction to X10-based home automation, a technology that's been around since the 1970s.For the most part, the book just scratches the surface of the subject and often goes off on unrelated tangents, such as an example of how to build a robot lawnmower.What's missing is a more comprehensive overview of X10-compatible modules and the different ways they might be used to solve home automation problems.For example, irrigation is a very practical application that's ideal for a computer, and there are X10-based models, such as the Rain8 made by WGL designs. But the author chooses to ignore irrigation because of a perceived flooding hazard, even though the Rain8 has an internal limiter that shuts off the water even if no X10 "off" signal is received. Many pages are devoted to computer automation systems sending text-base messages, but no mention is made of voice-based solutions which are much more practical and cost-effective. The newer software applications that are available are impressive but it's amazing how primitive the available hardware is. The book fails to mention one of the biggest obstacles to X10 deployment: the need for a "neutral" (white) wire in household wiring. Since most light switches are wired with a simple 2-wire loop-back for economic reasons, it would require expensive re-wiring to use X10 switches.And, unless I missed it, it fails to discuss the problem of X10 signals not being passed to the "other side" of typical 2-phase house wiring. Only a passing mention is made to the new INSTEON technology that improves upon the old X10 protocol.So, although the book appears to be "current" it reads like it was written five years ago. "Smart Home Hacks" works best as sort of an idea cookbook.You'll find yourself bouncing around from one "recipe" to another but often finding most cool ideas can't be cooked up because of various obstacles (cost, permits, electronic expertise, obscure hardware, and so on).

SMART HOME HACKS: Tips & Tools for Automating Your House
SMART HOME HACKS: Tips & Tools for Automating Your House
Gordon Meyer
O'Reilly Media Inc.
ISBN: 0-596-00722-1

For years we have heard of how computers can provide benefits around the house. Television news programs show research labs using computers in conjunction with special equipment for recording or controlling test. I have often wondered, "How is this accomplished?"

Smart Home Hacks introduces you to previously hidden benefits our computers can provide. With software available for Macintosh and other operating systems we learn to control many items in and around our home from our computer's CPU.

How is this done... using the existing 120 VAC wiring in our walls to transmit and receive signals via X10 transmitter and receivers around your house. Whether controlling 12 volt landscaping lights, the timing cycles for your pool pump, or simply turning lights and sound on and off for security reasons, from the ground up Gordon Meyer's Smart Home Hacks explains the process.

Your computer can send messages to your cell phone, pager, or e-mail account. Driveway lights can be set to come on and remain on for a given period of time, and sprinkler systems can be controlled by your home computer. Meyer takes readers from the basics of X10 codes to starting your hot tub and having it ready when you get home.

For those wanting a computer to work for them this book even shows you how to monitor and plot heating oil fuel consumption. With broadband Internet service you can monitor Fido's actions when you are away from the house by adding video camera(s) and a link to the Internet.

To add cost effectiveness to a home, SMART HOME HACKS: Tips & Tools for Automating Your House is a great addition to a home library. Additionally, it should be considered as an ideal gift. ... Read more

Product Description
This book explores the world of Visual Basic 6 programming with respect to real-world interfacing and control on a beginner to intermediate level, with a home automation system.Includes HVAC systems, water pumps, temperature controls and more. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Not really for Home Automation
Let's start with stating that I create HMI's/SCADA systems for a living. I have used all the major commercial software including Wonderware and iFIX. This book was interesting. At least it covered serial communications which others on this topic have not done. The book is based around using an industrial PLC (Programmable Logic Controller). It's probably over kill for the home, but then again finding something else for home use isn't easy either. It was helpful to me since I am planning on using it not for the home but more commercial and industrial applications. I think it should have a different title, but a more appropriate title might not get as many hits.

Excellent for practical applications!
This is an excellent practical resource since the details are revealed. The procedures can be modified to suit many other control applications regardless of residential, commercial or industrial. Recommended!

Communication Protocol's and VB
Mr. Leonik is correct in his feeling with regard to the title given to his book, it is in fact not representative of the material inside. I can't imagine someone just getting involved with home automation (or wanting to learn about the subject) choosing this book as a starting point. Visual Basic is a huge programming language that takes years to develop a proficiency in. Writing effective communication protocol software in any language is no easy task and it is only a small part of VB capability. As a Vb programmer I had heard about Mr. Leonik's book through the "VB Grapevine". I had been searching for a book that covered this subject for a Modbus project I was working on. Of the 50 or so VB books in my library none of them covered this subject, so when I learned about this book and after reading Mr. Leonik's writeup I knew this was a book that I had to have in my library. I was not disappointed -- the information and program contained in Chapter 5 was well worth every penny (just the algorithm for CRC computation was enormously helpful). This book filled a void (no pun intended) in my arsenal of VB knowledge (and my library). Thanks, Mr. Leonik, from myself and my fellow VB programmers for the useful knowledge.

Need to repackage
The general intent of the author is interesting but he blows it by writing the book based on the AB PLC which is expensive and not generally popular with Hobbyists and DIY folks.
The book will certainly have a lot more appeal had it been written based on PIC's or Basic stamp microcontrollers. However, I found the chapters on RS232 interfacing very useful and am keeping it for that reason.

Just a copy of AB manual
After reading the authors review I bought this book. It has nothing just a copy of DF1 protocol for Allen Bradley PLC (Unprotected Reads and Write). This book is a basic book not for advanced users. ... Read more

Product Description
A Linux smart home is about controlling and monitoring devices and information around your home using a standard personal computer, Linux, and its vast array of open source tools. You don’t have to be a master programmer to create one. If you like to tinker with Linux, Linux Smart Homes For Dummies will guide you through cool home automation projects that are as much fun to work on as they are to use.

Home automation used to be limited to turning on lights and appliances, and maybe controlling your thermostat and lawn sprinkler, from your computer. While you still might not be able to create all the Jetsons’ toys, today you can also

• Build a wireless network
• Create and set up a weather station
• Automate your TV and sound system
• Spy on your pets when you’re not home
• Set up an answering system that knows what to do with calls
• Increase your home’s security

If you know how to use Linux and a few basic development tools — Perl, the BASH shell, development libraries, and the GNU C compiler—Linux Smart Homes For Dummies will help you do all these tricks and more. For example, you can

• Discover the best sources for Linux-based home automation devices
• Set up a wireless network, create a wireless access point, build a bridge between wired and wireless networks, and route your own network traffic
• Build a personal video recorder with MythTV that will record to DVD, or set up a wireless streaming music system
• Create a smart phone system that takes messages and forwards them to your fax, modem, or answering machine
• Build a weather station that notifies you of severe weather alerts
• Control and secure your home automation network, and even check on your house when you’re away

The bonus CD-ROM includes all kinds of cool open source software for your home automation projects. Linux Smart Homes For Dummies even includes lists of cool gadgets to check out and great ways to automate those boring household chores. A smart home’s a happy home! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

The Ultimate Geek
This book helps you to define and set up a complete home automation system. It is obviously based on the Linux operating system, and presumes that you have at least some idea about getting a Linus distribution, getting it installed and have a few development tools. The applications he discusses fit into several different categories: Entertainment, X10 controller, Weather, and of course in today's world - security.

There is a CD included with the book. It does not contain a Linux distribution, but instead several shareware programs that the home automater should find useful. These applications are all designed around Linux of course. If you should choose to automate your house using that other operating system, you don't want to use this book but instead 'Smart Homes For Dummies.'

Setting up a home system like this one is just about the ultimate in geek-dom, and very educational. Have Fun! ... Read more

Product Description
Home automation is a must for people who are too busy to bother about simple routines. However, home automation is a deep subject, and the 74-page eBook, “Home Automation Inside Out,” can definitely enhance you understanding of it. The book explains home automation in a simple manner and presents loads of tips that can definitely help you to successfully automate your home and enhance security.

And more from this great ebook...

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Product Description

TURN YOUR HOME SWEET HOME INTO AN AUTOMATED, EVIL GENIUS PARADISE!

Your home may be your castle-but can it cook your dinner? Well, with the help of 25 Home Automation Projects for the Evil Genius, you can teach it to do just that, along with dozens of other affordable, enjoyable things that will transform your humble abode into a wickedly automated living environment.

But fear not-you don't need an engineering degree to complete the projects in this book. That's because technology maven Jerri L. Ledford skillfully provides you with a firm understanding of the basic wiring, networking, and equipment demands for home automation. She then leads you step by step through each application, offering clearly worded and heavily diagramed guidance that will truly satisfy your inner Evil Genius.

With the help of just a few household tools, you'll be able to bring info-age automation to:

• Indoor and outdoor lighting
• Security and surveillance
• Climate regulation
• Entertainment systems
• Personal reminders
• Plant care
• Remote monitoring of kids and pets
• Keyless entry
• Wireless TV
• And many more!

Plus, you'll gain access to discounts from a variety of home automation product manufacturers, to make your projects even more economical. With 25 Home Automation Projects for the Evil Genius, easy living is now automatic!

Customer Reviews (4)

Turn back!!!
Save yourself from wasting money and time on this book! The other reviews are accurate; this book is really quite useless for anybody capable of reading instructions that come with most hardware. And if you're not comfortable reading instructions, why would you buy this book?

Using the Evil Genius Series name for truly nefarious purposes.
Don't buy this expecting anything similar to any of the other fine entries in this series.Good for letting you know what already-built products exist in the marketplace for home automation and little else.At times reads like an X10 press release.Woefully misplaced in the Evil Genius series.

This book is just terrible
I wish I had heeded the warnings of the other reviewer that panned this book, but I found a used copy from an Amazon vendor at a really low price and figured "what the heck."Well, no price is low enough for this volume.Even free it wouldn't be worth the postage.

Fortunately you don't have to read for long to discover that this book is a waste of time. The second chapter, tantalizingly titled "Intruder Alert: Outdoor Lighting" is 5 pages long. In those 5 pages it basically says "Go to a home supply store; buy an outdoor light with motion sensor; install it."It is impressive that the author was able to drag that out to 5 pages!What did I expect of a chapter entitled "Intruder Alert" in a book named "25 Home Automation Projects for the Evil Genius"?I dunno - how about building a system involving multiple lights and multiple sensors that communicate through some automated system.Or maybe a system that uses high-power lights to blind and disorient an intruder.Or at least something that requires a soldering iron!

If you make it past chapter 2, Chapter 4 tells you how to install a thermostat.Let me save you the trouble of reading it.It says "Go to a home supply store; buy a modern setback thermometer with whatever features you would like that is compatible with your home; Remove your old thermostat; install the new one."Chapter 5, excitingly named "Speak Up! Installing Voice Controls" spends 3 of its 6 pages showing you how to run the installation setup app for the voice control program on your PC.I'm not talking about some arcane ritual, it literally shows you screen shots of the freaking setup wizard.Give me a break!If you aren't able to install an application on your PC, you are not ready for home automation.

I am amazed that this book was ever published.I am amazed that it is still in print.I have never read any other Evil Genius books, and after this one I don't intend to.

A disappointment from cover to cover for an evil genius.
To start this review I will quote an excerpt from the front cover:
"Every project includes a list of materials, sources for parts, schematics, and clear instructions.Build your own home automation system that includes lighting, security, surveillance and monitors, climate control, entertainment, and more"

Anyone who is familiar with the "Evil Genius" series of books knows that they are famous for DIY projects created by hacking existing items for new purposes.This book is not one of them.There should be a disclaimer on the front of this book that says "REQUIRES WINDOWS XP FOR MOST PROJECTS AND A LOCAL HOME IMPROVEMENT STORE".Nothing about this book is spectacular.In fact Ms. Ledford has simply taken the instructions out of the boxes of products bought from Lowes or Home Depot, and compiled them into a 25 chapter book.You don't build ANYTHING.Everything is purchased ready to use right out of the box.Please reread the excerpt above now.Why the need to mentions materials, parts, or schematics.Why does it say "build your own".If there had been anything at all in this book that came close to the history of the "evil genius" series OR if the book contained anything that resembles what is spelled out on the front and back covers, then I would have given it more than 1 star.As far as this book is concerned, all you need to do is go to your local home improvement warehouse and buy whatever home automation item you want.Then bring it home and follow the instructions supplied with the purchased item.I also challenge anyone to find the words "windows" or "software" on the covers of this book.Has Ms. Ledford not considered that not everyone uses a MS product?TAB Electronics has had really great books come from their presses, but their editors drop the ball on this one.It needs "evil genius" removed from it's cover.It should actually have the title "25 Ready To Use Home Automation Products".If you are a fan of the previously released "evil genius" books then stay away from this one.If you want help installing something you purchased and a little bit of theory behind how it works, then by all means this is the book for you (you just better have a MS enabled computer handy). ... Read more

Product Description
Take a geek and a PC, add one soldering iron, a home, and a copy of Home Hacking Projects for Geeks, and you'll give new meaning to the term, "home improvement." From fearless neophytes to tool-wielding masterminds, the home hacker in any geek will find new inspiration and plenty of hands-on guidance to take on a variety of home-transforming projects once relegated to the world of sci-fi.

This fun new guide combines creativity with electricity and power tools to achieve cool--and sometimes even practical--home automation projects. Never again will you have to flip a light switch when you enter a room or use a key to open your front door. With a few off-the-shelf devices, some homemade hardware, and a little imagination, you can be living in your own high-tech habitat.

Home Hacking Projects for Geeks shows hackers of all ability levels how to take on a wide range of projects, from the relatively small but energy-conscious automating of light switches, to building home theaters using Windows or Linux-based PCs, to more complicated projects like building home security systems that rival those offered by professional security consultants. Each project includes a conceptual diagram, a "What You Need List" and a small "Project Stats" section that describes the relative difficulty, time involved, and cost of the project. What's more, each project is a workable, practical way to improve your home--something unique that you can customize for your individual needs.

The thirteen projects in Home Hacking Projects for Geeks are divided into three categories: Home Automation, Home Entertainment Systems, and Security, and include projects such as:

Remotely Monitor Your Pet

Make Your House Talk

Remotely Control Your Computer's MP3 player

Create Time-Shifted FM Radio

Watch Your House Across the Network

Build a Home Security System

If you've ever thought the Jetson's had it made, or looked around your house and thought, "I could make that better " then you're ready for Home Hacking Projects for Geeks. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Very Good Book
I have read through this book once already and plan to try most of the projects within.I have been very happy both with the projects themselves and the instructions.A must have for any geek or people who like to tinker with things

Not bad, not too tricky
I thought this was an amusing book that described a collection of neat ideas.Most of them are not too technically sophisticated so that you could have come up with the design yourself if you are a technical person, using web resources, but the value was in the idea itself and the way it is suggested.

Not what youi might call worth while
Since I am a computer engineer I was hoping to find that this book offered some home projects let alone hacks. First let me state that this book doesn't offer any"Hacking Projects". To be honest it barely offers any "Home projects". Fortunately for me I have a friend who is an electrical engineer. This book is extremely misleading. More than half of the projects listed in this book simply can not be accomplished because the projects mentioned severely lack the required information or were never honestly tested to see if the might actually work. A good part of this book suggests you will need a skill set of 3 out of 5 to accomplish a given task. What it doesn't say it that you will need significantly more money and electrical knowledge than this book will ever provide. Many of the projects listed here are extremely costly and provide little advantage to some running it through a computer. In addition, you will have to know a computer language [Pearl] in order to get remote benefit from any project. Having looked over the Pear scripts I have found some mistakes in the programming. It seems to me that O'Reilly just wanted to sell a book.

One big commercial for X-10... the product
Nothing in the splash page, back cover or anywhere with info letting you know it is almost 100% about the X10 hardware. I already own a house full of X10 stuff, so the fact that I wasted money on this book burns my soul. Not one thing deals with how to set up, rig or configure any of the projects without having to spend money on whichever X-10 product will do the job. If I wanted that I would just buy the product and read the installation guide that comes with it.
The author suckered me into buying the book... don't let him sucker you!

Interesting but nothing innovative
A great deal of the projects in this book are basically various forms of X10 module automation.The projects include how to automate a light with motion sensing, how to remotely monitor your pet, creating a whole house audio or time shifted audio, a keyless entry system, and intrusion detection and deterrence.For each project the items are detailed, the software described in detail, information is included on where to locate them, assembly instructions, scripts, and everything else you need to complete it.Only basic skills are needed for each project.Each project includes information on estimated cost, time and difficulty ratings so you can easily decide which ones you will tackle and which ones you may not want to.Home Hacking Projects for Geeks is recommended to anyone wanting to have a little fun with home electronics. ... Read more

Product Description
Who'd ever thought we would see the Jetson era arrive at our time? All that automation in the Jetson's home made everything so futuristic, doors and windows opening and closing by programmed gadgets, lights and electrical appliances switching on and off by computer control, videophone calling, robots at your beck and call. Well, okay, we're not really there yet with the robot-thing, but the point is, the digital age is here and we're seeing technology getting deeply integrated into our personal lives more and more at the same time as it continues to get more highly developed as the years go by.Home automation is so common at this present time. Most regular households have implemented if not a wide-range, at least some kind of home automation in the house. Home automation systems make regular household activities like maintenance, security, even the laundry and gardening, effortless. There are built-in home automation systems and wireless systems. There is an assortment of cool gadgets for home automation systems at wide-ranging prices. Does your home need power monitoring? How about automatic outdoor lighting? Maybe you hate gardening and need to install sprinkler control? Perhaps some weather monitoring? Oh, and don't forget home security systems. Then there's the telephone, satellite TV, cable, audio system, indoor lighting and kitchen appliances to network. If you are tech-savvy, then you can set up your own home automation for a small budget; but, if you don't like to deal with all the wiring and cabling, then you can hire professional service. Either way, you do need some home automation to get with the times and to make your life more comfortable. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

DIY set-up with professional results
There are useful buying and set-up tips that were thought of with the average home owner in mind. It offers convenient resources to use to help install their own automation products just like a professional.

Energy-saving + low-cost = simple life
I like this book because it explains how home automation can simplify our life without costing too much money. There are inexpensive home automation equipments readily available in today's marketplace. Some gadgets are uncomplicated and can be easily installed and maintained by any ordinary home owner. Most home automation systems are energy-saving which means huge savings on electric bills.

GREAT TIPS FOR SIMPLIFYING THE USE HOME AUTOMATION
Good read for me. I got several new tips for easy do-it-yourself. This book showed me that automation does not need to be complex. If we only simplify and choose the most important features that can really help make handling daily chores less wearisome then it can be a very helpful system for everyday life. ... Read more

Product Description

• From the garage to the living room, Geek House provides hackers with 10 PC-based hardware hacking projects that are not for the faint of heart!
• Taking the DIY mentality to a whole new level, this book teaches techies how to hack, customize, and modify everything-from their sprinkler systems to the temperature of their barbecues
• Adventurous readers will feast on such projects as installing a bar code inventory system for DVDs or CDs, converting RS232 to wireless, scheduling recording from any television in the house, and creating a remote control finder
• Companion Web site includes the custom software and source code needed to power these geeky creations

Customer Reviews (2)

Not realistic
I'm interested in X10 projects as well as other home automation projects throughout the house but I thought this book was a little out of tune to what you realistically would do. I was captured by measuring the temperature of a grill and adjusting the heat. This is showing you a control for a "smoker." Other items you can easily find on the internet such as X10 devices, sprinkler control, etc.

Great Project Frameworks and Ideas
This book is by the authors of PC Toys.The PC Toys projects are relatively easy to implement and spoon feed the reader all the material needed to complete the toys.

I think this is an excellent book.I'm very comfortable with software and coding, but not that great with electronics.

This book is more ambitious, provides good road maps for the different project areas, but the book is written with the intent of the reader branching out and developing their own solution.My interests are X-10 and Wireless based projects.

The companion website provides alot of source code that can be tweeked, or rewritten for your own particular project.

Negatives: not for beginers, could be insufficient for "experts".These statement may be contrary, but instructions lack detail for a complete novice.At the same time, if you have a particular interest in a given area, this book might not be providing you with anything new.

Check out the contents before buying to ensure your going to get a book that gives you the amount of detail you need.A look at the contents page and a quick skim should help decide if it is right for you.

If you liked PC toys, could manage the projects and want something more challenging the chances are you'll like this book.I think it's an excellent source of inspiration for projects. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (11)

hip bone connected to the...
Lots about how to assemble and connect and initialize all the necessary hardware components.Very little about how to get MS Windows to orchestrate the network functionality.As per usual, Windoze makes it look real simple, but in fact, nothing works.The book is no help

Your guide to home networking
If new to networking stop, look, and read Home Networking: The Missing Manual. Scott Lowe did it again by explaining the how to establish a network for your computer(s) and associated devises. He explains networking both Macintosh and Windows Operating Systems, printing, file sharing, and data storage using systems ranging from power lines to wireless.

Not included (nor expected), but of personal interest to me, would be information about controlling home devises with X10 through powerline communication.

Home Networking: The Missing Manual is a great book for those wanting implement either wired or wireless communication networking.

It still doesn'twork
The book is clear and it's easy to follow the steps in setting up a home network. Unfortunately the book assumes nothing will go wrong and when it does,and it did for me, there are no steps outlined to help determine what is wrong.

The BEST
This manual explained many things in a simple format.I would recommend it to ANYONE who is not well versed in home networking.It is easy to read and understand.I had my network and a friend's network up and running in no time thanks to the information in this manual!

Deals with the basics only
This book is a good introduction to the basics of networking, but provides very little "advanced" information.Most of what's in the book can be found on any number of web sites dedicated to the subject of networking.I was looking for more of an understanding of the nitty gritty details of computer networks, but didn't find what I was looking for in this book.There's very little troubleshooting information, which is a surprise given how often "troubles" arise when networking computers. ... Read more

Product Description
Tired Of Walking Around Searching For The Switchboard, And Deciphering The Right Switch For The Right Control? Too Lazy To Turn On The Security System? Or Are You The Kind Who Gets A Kick Out Of Using Various Automated Electronic Gadgets?

At Last! A Guide To Assist You With The Process Of Shrinking Your Campus And Automating The Various Gadgets Around! You Can Now Instantly Discover The Best Possible Tips To Automate Your Home, Sweet Home… And Maybe Even Flaunt It To Your Friends!

Introducing!

Valuable Information About Everything You Want To Know About Home Automation.

Dear Friend,

Home automation is a must for people who are too busy to bother about simple routines. However, home automation is a deep subject, and this eBook, “Home Automation 101,” can definitely enhance you understanding of it. The book explains home automation in a simple manner and presents loads of tips that can definitely help you to successfully automate your home and enhance security.

These Are Some Of The Tips You Will Find In The Book :

What Is Home Automation?
The Benefits OfHome Automation
Methods OfHome Automation Control
Building An Automated Home
What Home Automation Can Do for Your Family and Home
Home Automation: Providing Your Extra Comfort And Convenience In Your Daily Life
Home Automation Business, Light Dimming Systems Works Wonder
Home Automation, Let The Latest Technology Controls Your Home
How Automation Software, Automating Your House
Home Automation System, How It Works And What It Means For Your Life
Linux Home Automation Systems, Controlling Your Home Through Linux
Stanley Home Automation System, A Great Product For Your Everyday Needs
Streamingmedia, Knowing The Latest News About Home Automation Systems
Wireless Home Automation, What This Means For Your Daily Life
The Home Automation Code
Do-it-Yourself Home Automation Projects
GE Products For Home Automation Security And Protection
Home Automation And GE Products For Excellent Lighting And Security
Home Automation Through Voice Recognition Systems
Home Automation For Light Control
Streaming Media In Home Automation
Avenues Of Home Automation - Future Living, An Insight

And Much More...

Why spend another weeks and months trying to figure out all of the steps it takes to getting your home automated -- when you can get now the guide that will show you exactly how to take action the easy way?

With these e-book, you'll be able to know them directly from the computer screen itself within 5 minutes from now if you take action!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Dear Readers:

We are dedicated to providing our customers with cutting edge information with the latest and most popular ebooks & hot topics at very affordable prices. Our mission is to create positive change in your life. We carry hundreds of unique titles under many categories for your convenience. Please click on the name "Manuel Ortiz Braschi" at the top of the page, next to the title, or write "Manuel Ortiz Braschi" at the search box and you will be taken to our main page in Amazon, where you will be able to check all the interesting, unique and informative titles that we carry at Amazon Kindle. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

They should have to pay me to read this....
I can't come up with enough adjectives to describe how useless this book is.It's page after page of badly written, Jetsons-style ideas of what your home could be with home automation, but there is essentially no practical implementation on how to do it.Not worth the bytes it takes up on my reader.Do yourself a favor and buy Smart Homes For Dummies instead (no, I'm not associated with them).It's got loads of useful information. ... Read more

Product Description
James Van Laarhoven explores the very comprehensive home automation system from LiteTouch Systems.This book will aid in the installation, maintenance and programming of the LiteTouch 2000.Includes lighting, audio, installation, blueprint reading, video and more. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

A Real Pleasure
A wonderful help for a remodeler.We have used this manual as a bible for our kitchen & bath designs.A easy to read and use book.

Litetouch made easy!
We have a complete Litetouch System in our home.VanLaarhoven's book has proved invaluable to us when we need answers in a hurry.His trouble shooting techniques have shown us the way every time.We are so happy to have found his comprehensive, easy-to-read and understand manual.

Home Automation Basics II
This book is mainly geared toward the 2000 and the 5000LC LiteTouch Automation Systems.The content covers practical installation and troubleshooting, but also includes an automation component section that gives specifications along with some practical tips.The goal of the book is to break-down the technology into separate events that will allow the technician/electrician and homeowner a way to comfortably deal with LiteTouch and Home Automation as a whole.The book includes experiences from other technicians, homeowners and myself that will hopefully make your home automation project more enjoyable. ... Read more

Product Description
A broad overview of the home networking field, ranging from wireless technologies to practical applications

In the future, it is expected that private networks (e.g., home networks) will become part of the global network ecosystem, participating in sharing their own content, running IP-based services, and possibly becoming service providers themselves. This is already happening in the so-called "social networks" and peer-to-peer file sharing networks on the Internet—making this emerging topic one of the most active research areas in the wireless communications field.

This book bridges the gap between wireless networking and service research communities, which, until now, have confined their work to their respective fields. Here, a number of industry professionals and academic experts have contributed chapters on various aspects of the subject to present an overview of home networking technologies with a special emphasis on the user as the center of all activities. Coverage includes:

• Networked home use cases and scenarios

• Media format, media exchange, and media interoperability

• Location-aware device and service discovery

• Security in smart homes

• Secure service discovery protocol implementation for wireless ad-hoc networks

• Multimedia content protection in consumer networks

• Mobile device connectivity in home networks

• Unlicensed mobile access/generic access network

• Wireless sensor networks in the home

• Ultra-wideband and sensor networking in the home environment

With a balanced mix of practice and theory, Technologies for Home Networking focuses on the latest technologies for speedier, more reliable wireless networking and explains how to facilitate workable end-to-end solutions from a user's perspective. This book is an ideal resource for practicing engineers, designers, and managers with an interest in home networking and also serves as a valuable text for graduate students. ... Read more

Product Description

Automation is undergoing a major transformation in scope and dimension and plays an increasingly important role in the global economy and in our daily lives. Engineers combine automated devices with mathematical and organizational tools to create complex systems for a rapidly expanding range of applications and human activities. The Springer Handbook of Automation incorporates these new developments and presents a widespread and well-structured conglomeration of new emerging application areas of automation. Besides manufacturing as a primary application of automation, the handbook contains new application areas such as medical systems and health, transportation, security and maintenance, service, construction and retail as well as production or logistics. This Springer Handbook is not only an ideal resource for automation experts but also for people new to this expanding field such as engineers, computer scientists, designers. It is edited by an internationally renowned and experienced expert.

Chapters in Part A explain the significant influence of automation on our life, on individuals, organizations, and society, in economic terms and context, and impacts of precision, accuracy and reliability with automatic and automated equipment and operations. The theoretical and scientific knowledge about the human role in automation is covered in Part B from the human-oriented and human-centered aspects of automation to be applied and operated by humans, to the human role as supervisor and intelligent controller of automation systems and platforms. This part concludes with analysis and discussion on the limits of automation to the best of our current understanding. Covering automation design from theory to building automation machines, systems, and systems-of-systems , Part C explains the fundamental elements of mechatronics, sensors, robots, and other components useful for automation, and how they are combined with control and automation software, including models and techniques for automation software engineering, and the automation of the design process itself. Chapters in Part D cover the basic design requirements for the automation and illustrate examples of how the challenging issues can be solved for the deign and integration of automation with respect to its main purpose: Continuous and discrete processes and industries, design techniques, criteria and algorithms for flow lines, and integrated automation. Concluding this part is the design for safety of automation, and of automation for safety. The main aspects of automation management are covered by the chapters in Part E: Cost effectiveness and economic reasons for the design, feasibility analysis, implementation, rationalization, use, and maintenance of particular automation; performance and functionality measures and criteria. Related also are the issues of how to manage automatically and control maintenance, replacement, and upgrading. Part F, industrial automation, begins with explanation of machine tool automation, including various types of numerical control (NC), flexible, and precision machinery for production, manufacturing, and assembly, digital and virtual industrial production, to detailed design, guidelines and application of automation in the principal industries, from aerospace and automotive to semi-conductor, mining, food, paper and wood industries. Chapters are also devoted to the design, control and operation of functions common to all industrial automation. Infrastructures and service automation are covered in Part G and it is explained how automation is designed, selected, integrated, justified and applied, its challenges and emerging trends in those areas and in the construction of structures, roads and bridges; of smart buildings, smart roads and intelligent vehicles; cleaning of surfaces, tunnels and sewers; land, air, and space transportation; information, knowledge, learning, training, and library services; and in sports and entertainment. Automation in medical and healthcare systems is covered in Part H and shows the exponential penetration and main contributions of automation to the health and medical well being of individuals and societies. First, the scientific and theoretical foundations of control and automation in biological and biomedical systems and mechanisms are explained, then specific areas are described and analyzed. Available, proven, and emerging automation techniques in healthcare delivery and elimination of hospital and other medical errors are also addressed. Finally, Part I, Home, Office, and Enterprise Automation is about functional automation areas at home, in the office, and in general enterprises, including multi-enterprise networks. Chapters also cover the automation theories, techniques and practice, design, operation, challenges and emerging trends in education and learning, banking, commerce. An important dimension of the material compiled for this part is that it is useful for all other functional areas of automation. The concluding part of this Springer Handbook contains figures and tables with statistical information and summaries about automation applications and impacts in four main areas: industrial automation, service automation, healthcare automation, and financial and e-commerce automation. A rich list of associations and of periodical publications around the world that focus on automation in its variety of related fields is also included for the benefit of readers worldwide.

Throughout the 94 chapters, divided into ten main parts, with 124 tables, 1005 figures, the 168 co-authors present proven knowledge, original analysis, best practices and authoritative expertise.

Plenty of case studies, creative examples and unique illustrations, covering topics of automation from the basics and fundamentals to advanced techniques, cases and theories will serve the readers and benefit the students and researchers, engineers and managers, inventors, investors and developers.