Speech recognition system for Home automation.

Hi,

I'm looking at possibilities of constructing a relatively cheap home speech recognition system to turn appliances on and off. As i see it I have several options:

- Use a computer: Pros: Good Software is easy to get, Probably the fastest way to get a system. Devices could be run from the serial/ parallel port. Cons: Expensive solution for such a "simple task". Computer must be dedicated and run all the time = high power consumption = expensive.

- Build a system from speech recognition IC's or Microcontrollers: Pros: Components are relatively cheap, Low power consumption, Good recognition rate Cons: Components are often SMD's (haven't found any that are not) which means specialized equipment is to be used. Demo/development boards costs too much to justify its use. Maybe long development time.

- Buy Specialized solution: Pros: Plug'n'play Cons: Extremely expensive, removes the fun of DIY :)

What I really need is a robust recognition system that works with microphones not placed directly in front of the speaker.. like in the corner of the living room.

Does anyone here know of such a system, or tried to develop one? It only needs to recognize 5-10 words. It's really a "toy" project.

Thanks, Soren