jdev

First off, Hello everyone... I'm a .net developer with a decent back ground in that, and looking to get into this micro framework and start doing some cool home automation things. So with that being said, remember i'm a total NEWB when it comes to electronics my only exposure there is when I was a kid I received a 300-n-1 project kit (thanks dad!), and made every single project when i was 10 :| and since then haven't done much except for today finding it in a box and taking it apart for parts. (20yrs later KNEW IT WOULD COME IN HANDY) So first question I have is, I've read through the book Getting Started with netduino and it was fun, but what was most interesting (for what I need) was the networking part, soooo... I am going to buy a motion sensor and a relay switch... what i'm confused about is where to start? I want to turn lights On and Off when my child enters/leaves a room (i know they sale these types of things but whats the fun in that?) how can i power my device from standard home wiring(US)? the only cable i "want to run" is network cable to my server, to do the controlling/logging Any help or pointers would GREATLY appreciated looking forward to your answers, Josh