In many new luxury residences, householders can pre-set their coffeemakers and toasters so that their breakfast is ready for them the minute they get out of bed in the morning.

Gadgets can also be timed to feed the dog, fish, or water the trees.

Motion-sensor technology, which has been around for at least a decade, allows a home to turn off the lights automatically, which can result in energy savings and increased security. Such systems are a good start for someone who wants a high-tech home at a reasonable cost. The system will over the long run help owners to save on their electricity bills, since the lights will only be switched on when the residents need them.

Relax and enjoy a movie while technology takes care of the rest of your living space.

Other smart home features allow residents to set windows to open and close on a pre-set schedule.

By sending a short message from a mobile phone, users can switch their air-conditioning system on or off, as well as check the status of their electrical appliances.

The German-based technology giant Siemens is one prominent local provider of such technology, bringing its platform solution known as Programmable Logic Controller or PLC to the kingdom.

Normally used in hotel and industrial projects, it can be adapted to create an automated system for homeowners.

For home offices, or those who work full-time at home, the latest technology provides a range of innovative solutions. Fixed line operator True Corporation Plc offers a "cyber home" package, which it boasts can turn an ordinary house into an ultra-modern office with real-time access to the world via a high-speed Internet connection.

Increased mobility is now a reality, as wireless-enabled notebooks and PDAs allow users to connect to the Internet through a pre-paid or post-paid system. TOT Corporation, True and TT&T are just some of the companies offering such advanced technology to the public.

When away from home, householders can use their office computer, notebook or PDA to monitor the situation at home via web cams and sensors hooked up to a high-speed Internet connection.

Home entertainment is another area where advanced technology provides householders with karaoke, movies and video games on demand. True says it is ready to offer this service through its affiliate, the pay-TV provider United Broadcasting Corporation.

Many producers of home appliances are offering home theatre sets as more and more people choose to entertain themselves and their families in the cosy atmosphere of home.

To get the best effect, the minimum requirements include a DVD player, a big-screen plasma television and at least five speakers are required to create surround sound of a similar standard to that provided in local cinemas.

Prices for such products range from 15,000 baht per set to well over 200,000 baht, so choose the system that best matches your budget.

Many residential developers have tried to create designs that accommodate new technological developments.

Extra plug-ins for computers, laptops or other electronic essentials are now standard in most new housing units.