The world of technology is advancing at a rapid pace and with it are the increasing and innovative home features that are being made available to homeowners. The burgeoning growth of the Internet and the subsequent demand for large-scale communication may be partly responsible for this influx of unique, automated and interactive fixtures. From remotely operated and automated security systems to intelligent cooking and cleaning appliances, advanced home technologies that incorporate communication and interaction are making even the most ordinary domestic necessities and tasks more efficient and modernistic.
             The progression of home technologies has also closely followed the advances that have been made in human computer interfaces, without which the majority of these innovative products would never have been developed. Most major appliance and electronics manufacturers have been quick to respond to the advances in both computer and home technology in order to meet consumer demand and to stay ahead of the competition.
             There are many unique home products that are now available or are currently in testing or demonstration phases. Trade shows dedicated to computer, information and home technologies are filled with working examples of what modern technology has to offer the homeowner. These products cover a broad range of duties and degrees of complexity, but without a doubt they are paving the way to being able to enjoy a completely automated life style in the very near future.
             Several major appliance manufacturers are developing or have developed kitchen appliances with advanced features that make cooking, food storage and even cleaning easier. A prime example is the networked refrigerator that Whirlpool has developed. Comparable to a network server, this refrigerator can be used as a communication tool for more than just storing food products or delivering food-related information.
             A detachable and handheld computeriz...