Inexpensive and easy to install home automation devices were everywhere once again at this year's CES with many more companies promoting their special systems.and#160; It's no doubt that low-cost and the easy to install options can be very interesting, choosing a limited platform can cause integration problems down the road.and#160; Anyone that's seriously considering any Do-It-Yourself home automation devices should look for platforms with open standards that support a large variety of gadgets that are on the market.and#160; I continue to favor the SmartThings platform because they've created a more open system that also works with lots of different popular automation devices including Phillips Hue lightbulbs and Belkin WeMo devices.and#160; Another benefit to the platform is that anyone who's using it can create custom uses and share it with the rest of the SmartThings community.and#160; But be warned: all of these automation devices work off of your wireless network, so it is essential to setup security protocols on your wireless network before you begin to add devices.and#160; Learn more about the SmartThings platform atand#160;http://www.smartthings.com