
Why Have Networked Appliances?

- Download new wash–cycle programs from the Internet for different kinds of clothing.
- Download instructions on how to wash unique fabrics.
- Use the networked connectivity to check the wash/dry cycle online.
- Use the networked connectivity to send a message to your PDA phone or computer when it’s done washing/drying.
Ovens

- Remotely control from any computer or PDA phone.
- Have a hot meal when you get home by placing your dinner in the oven before you leave for work, and remotely turning on the oven on your way home for work.
- Scan in items to get the most optimum cook time. The oven could use the internet to download and update its list of food items.
- Download receipts.
- Use the networked connectivity to send a message to your PDA phone or computer when it’s done cooking.
- Communicate with networked refrigerators and suggest recipes based on what items are in the refrigerator
- Automatically programs the clock (no more blinking lights when the power goes out).
Air Conditioner / Thermostat

- Adjust temperatures through your PDA phone or computer. Cool or heat your house before you get home.
- Remotely check your house’s temperature when away, or use your home network to check the temperature when you are home.
Bread Makers

- Scan in items to get correct baking times. The bread maker could use the internet to download and update its list of food items.
- Download receipts.
- Use the networked connectivityto send a message to your PDA phone or computer when it’s done cooking.
Coffee Makers

- Set brewing time remotely and have a fresh cup waiting for you when you get home.
- Use to send a message to your PDA phone or computer when it’s done brewing.
Networked Appliances Tips
- Most of the networked appliance will have built-in self-monitoring capabilities. Therefore, they could automatically notify a repair company if a problem arises.
- Look for companies that use common networking standards such as 802.11b, Bluetooth, and UPnP (Universal Plug and Play). This will assure that appliances from different companies will all network together.
- A networked refrigerator will probably prove to be the most useful out of all the networked appliances. The increased use of RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) chips will let refrigerators know what food items are stored inside.
- Make sure your router or other internet gateway is secure. You wouldn’t want anybody hacking in and turning on your microwave or checking the contents of your refrigerator. See the security section for more information on securing your Home Theater Network.
- Sorry … no networked toasters yet!
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