CSE481M - Home Networking Capstone
MW 3:30-4:50 Spring 2011

Homes are ever increasing hotbeds of new technology such as game consoles, TVs, smartphones, cameras, tablets, and remotely controllable lights and locks. This rapid pace of innovation, however, is breeding heterogeneity and complexity that frustrates even technically-savvy users' attempts to manage their technological devices or implement functionality that uses these devices in combination. For instance, it is impossible for most users to view video captured by their security camera on their smartphone when they are not at home.

The course focus is on developing solutions for the connected home - a home rich with sensors, actuators, controllers, processors, and input and output devices. Orientation is towards systems software - infrastructure that facilitates building effective applications for the home space. Example devices typical in modern homes will be provided, along with (possibly research prototype) software infrastructure. Classes are a mix of readings, lectures, and discussions. A very significant team project component is involved. Students work in substantial teams to design, implement, and release a software project that addresses one or more issues in the home, such as configuration-less setup, interoperability, privacy, and usable security. Emphasis is placed on the development process itself, rather than on the product. Students are expected to write a project proposal, develop a work plan, document progress, write an abbreviated user manual, and conduct a technical analysis of the project outcomes. Students present their projects proposals and the final product to the class and offer feedback to other students.

Prerequisites

• Official CSE capstone course requirements
  CSE 331 or CSE 341; CSE 326 or CSE 332; CSE 351 or CSE 378; substantial programming experience such as CSE 451 or CSE 457.

• Additional CSE481M prerequisite
  Senior standing or permission of the instructors.

• Helpful
  The material naturally involves concepts from operating systems, networking, security, HCI, and embedded systems, among others. At least one 400-level course in those areas would be useful.

Lab Resources

Our lab is CSE 345.

We are planning to have the following resources available:

• Six desktops.
• Wired and wireless bridges/routers/gateways.
• A big-screen TV.
• Two Google Internet TVs (donated by Google).
• Smartphones
• A security camera or two.
• Game console (maybe).
• Various sensors.
• Possibly some actuators.
• Other equipment required by your project ideas...