Abstract: The present invention provides a system and network architecture for a plurality of internet-enabled appliances to communicate with each other and with a plurality of users simultaneously in real time. In a preferred embodiment, a system in accordance with the present invention allows any appliance with built-in internet connectivity, or retrofitted with an interface device containing said connectivity, to communicate with a central server over the internet without human intervention. Software means is provided at the central server to enable such communication. Firmware and hardware means are provided for each appliance to connect to and disconnect from the central server on demand either through a dial-up connection or a dedicated communication line. The present invention allows for each device to send data to the central server, receive data from said server, or send data to and receive data from another device via the central server under user-programmable control means residing in the central server.

Abstract: The present invention provides a system and network architecture for a plurality of internet-enabled appliances to communicate with each other and with a plurality of users simultaneously in real time. In a preferred embodiment, a system in accordance with the present invention allows any appliance with built-in internet connectivity, or retrofitted with an interface device containing said connectivity, to communicate with a central server over the internet without human intervention. Software means is provided at said central server to enable such communication. Firmware and hardware means are provided for each appliance to connect to and disconnect from said server on demand either through a dial-up connection or a dedicated communication line. The present invention allows for each device to send data to said central server, receive data from said server, or send data to and receive data from another device via said central server under user-programmable control means residing in said server.

Abstract: Disclosed is a touch-programmable lighting and security device in the form of a stand lamp which can be programmed to provide illumination by means of an AC bulb or DC bulb in conjunction with parameters including the ambient light level, presence of people, and AC mains power failure. In one embodiment, this novel lighting and security device includes a transmitter which transmits an Alarm signal to a remote receiver upon detection of an intruder. This user friendly device conveniently plugs into any wall power outlet by means of a suitable length of cable and it can be easily programmed by touching different nonmetallic areas of the device. In one embodiment, four indicator lights in the form of LEDs are provided to identify its prevailing mode.