the telephone will tell you that so and so called, and your computer will remind you to play the electric bill. No,this is not science fiction. Nowadays many new technologies are being developed. They make it possible for users to control almost anything that is electric or electronic from portable computers or even cellular phones. A working mother can check on her baby's first steps at the day-care center from a laptop on her office desk. Digital photographs of vacations and family events can be uploaded onto the bit screen and enjoyed in room full of people. The "family rooom" is quickly becoming old-fashioned. In its place, a "media room" is being designed. In fact, the home theater is one of the fastest-growing segments of custom electronics. Only a few years ago household automation was something for millionaires,but near future smart houses will be available for ordinary people at a reasonable cost.