Abstract: A method of conducting an auction is described herein. The method includes receiving a first bid unit purchase request from a user and responsively generating at least one initial bid unit for bidding on one or more auction items displayed in the auction. The method also includes distributing at least one sweepstakes entry into a sweepstakes event to the user in response to the received purchase request, providing a sweepstakes award to the user as a function of the at least one sweepstakes entry, and allowing the user to purchase at least one addition bid unit with at least a portion of the sweepstakes award.

Abstract: Control apparatus for an environmental control system comprises input circuitry receiving environmental information and output circuitry for controlling an HVAC system. Processing circuitry in the controller configures the output circuitry based at least in part on the signals received on the input circuitry. Information about the status of the HVAC system may be transferred to system administrators using a wireless link.