In the past, if you wanted automated-controlled lighting, or the ability to raise, lower and turn on and off the lights in your home, you would have to either upgrade all of the wiring in your home or use the existing power lines to send messages to specially equipped light fixtures and other "smart" devices.

Because of improvements in wireless and power-line technology, it's now easier and more affordable to control all of your existing lighting from just about anywhere, according to www.thisoldhouse.com. You can turn on table lamps, dim overhead lights and spotlight a favorite photo or artwork in one easy step.

There are two ways to get this system to work. For lights that work with wall switches, replace the switch/dimmer with new automated hardware. For lamps and other freestanding lights, plug it into a special adapter that fits in a wall socket.

After the system is complete, there are several ways you can control your lighting. Some systems work with a wireless remote control. You can turn fixtures on and off or dim the lights from anywhere in your house. You can also set the lights to turn on at a certain time or activate a "burglar deterrent" mode while you are away. Another system uses plug-in or wall-mounted control panels, which communicate with the lights throughout the house via existing power lines.

Keep in mind that remote-controlled lighting not only provides a convenient way to operate all of the lighting in your home, but it also provides a safety value to your home.