http://www.househacker.com/ househacker/tags/rfid Cydus' has addressed the dearth of residential RFID access controllers in the marketplace by releasing a pair of modern electronic deadbolts. The locks operate as you may expect RFID proximity access controllers to, however, this unit, the MyKey 2300, unfortunately requires that a button be pressed before the unit is ready to read the keychain RFID tag. The higher end unit, the 4000, only requires the card to be in close proximity to the reader for activation. Besides it's raison d'etre; the convenience of keyless entry through small RFID cards, the deadbolts have some interesting features, including this backup battery system in case the unit's batteries die:

Simply touch a 9v battery to the built-in battery terminal and your MyKey 2300 is up and running. The MyKey even stores all of your existing security keys, so even if it's without power, when you turn it back on your access cards and pin combination are fully intact!

Lost or forgotten RFID cards aren't the end of the world either, as the unit comes equipped with a nicely hidden keypad for which to enter your password.

See also: RFID Enabling your front door. This is a homemade RFID entrance controller with a PC backend. The author shares a parts list, source code and cost breakdown (see author's comments ).

Previously: DIR RFID Access to your Front Door
]]> http://www.househacker.com/permanent/Cydus-Home-RFID-Deadbolts automated patio door access solutions for pets, to DIY, front door keyless entry howtos, RFID seems to be everywhere, and its popularity is certainly on the upswing. It should come as no surprise, then, that a home automation-friendly, retail RFID product is now available. The product, which is a joint project between RFID developer iAutomate.com and HomeSeer.com, will run with additional software from HomeSeer, and connect to your PC's serial port. Some possible uses, from the site:

• Control the lights, HVAC, garage door or security system when your car approaches or leaves your home. The Ultimate Driveway Sensor !
• Detect if vehicle is in the garage.
• Detect a person entering or leaving a room or area.
• Arm or Disarm Security by individual tag.
• Automatically open a "pet" door when your pet approaches the door.
• Control, Lights, Music, and Temperature based upon the presence or absence of a tag...

Still, as much as the hardware might allow you to do, $599 seems a bit steep given that it ships with only one RFID reader.

Via Automatedhome.co.uk. ]]> http://www.househacker.com/permanent/HomeSeer-RFID-Home-Automation-Starter-Kit
ExtremeTech.com walks you through the creation of just such a device with this tutorial on creating a handy RFID access controller for the front door of your home. This is a very nice, detailed tutorial that includes a parts list, tool list, software and schematics. The project looks pretty intensive, so set aside a good chunk of time to see it to completion.]]> http://www.househacker.com/permanent/DIY-RFID-Access-to-your-Front-Door Doormate.com makes an automatic patio door opener aimed at the elderly and people with special needs. The unit is pushbutton controlled (keychain) or activated through the optional, mountable numeric keypad for secure entrance. Once open, the Doormate slides the door closed after a short delay. Aside from the obvious practical benefit for people with special physical needs, the most interesting accessory is the 'Pet Prox' proximity device that clips on to your dog's collar. The device is triggered as the dog comes within a few feet of the Doormate- from either inside or out. This should be a welcome addition to the home for anyone that has a dog with a small bladder or frequent, obsessive hankerings for grass.

Doormate system and Pet Prox add-on available from Smarthome.com.]]> http://www.househacker.com/permanent/Doormate-Automatic-Patio-Door-with-Pet-Proximity-Sensor