Though some on here think I am an overpaid VCR repairman, I deal with the types of home automation in these setups, but on a larger scale.
Home automation is tha shiznit! For those who are into technology, you can set up hardware that can run security, lights, audio/video, heck.. even control curtains if you want...
I am seriously considering at the very least setting up a security camera, plasma TV, DVD player, and multimedia computer in my billiard room..
While some of those setups do look hideous from a pool player's perspective, this technology can be customized on a per user basis. I've dealt mostly with AMX and Crestron automation systems, but I heard there are a few other less expensive options out there.. X-10 is known as the "cheap" way to automate your home, but I've heard lots of good things about the products.
Russ