Cepro.com has an article  on using IP cameras instead of traditional closed circuit TV (CCTV) cameras.  There are reasons for choosing either IP or CCTV cameras and then more reasons to choose one model over another for a given installation.  In general, the market is moving to IP cameras for the following reasons:

Anatomy of a Home Security System - Here are products, features and FAQs for you to consider when setting up home security.

There's always the question of buy vs. build or do it yourself (DIY) vs. hiring a professional.  In our business we often work with clients who have struggled with this decision.  Lifehacker.com has a few tips  to help make up your mind:

Cepro.com has a news article  on the case of Real and their RealDVD copying software and the MPAA.  Basically, Real gave up the good fight and agreed to settle by paying the MPAA's legal fees ($4.5M).  For manufacturers of DVD ripping or copying hardware and software- the precedent has been set that it is illegal to offer such capability to consumers.

Which Music Streaming Service Is Best? (Poll Closed)

Grooveshark 31% (4275 votes)

Spotify 13% (1856 votes)

Pandora 29% (4057 votes)

Last.fm 14% (1998 votes)

Lala 5% (734 votes)

Other 7% (953 votes)

Total Votes: 13873 

Lifehacker.com did a survey  and found that Grooveshark and Pandora were the favorite music streaming services.  Almost 14,000 people voted in the poll.

Lifehacker.com has a good summary  of the primary alternatives available today to cable and satellite TV.  As you can see, there are many possiblilities.  Will any of them replace your cable subscription?  Maybe, but most are better complements.  

An article  at Cepro.com mentions how lights can do more than illuminate- they can curb energy use, evoke ambiance, and protect the home with a couple of tweaks:

- Use timers

- Set the scene with an astronomical clock

- Replace switches with dimmers that can communicate together

Cepro.com has an article  that gives some good examples of integrating lighting control with security:

- Programmable dimmers and switches to go 'all on' when the security system is tripped

- Flashing exterior lights when the security system is tripped