The AySystem from Siemens is described as two-way communication, but it’s really more of a one-way idea, with one party being able to monitor the condition of not only the other party, but also the conditions surrounding him or her.

This is the kind of thing that can be used to monitor a baby room or keep watch on a prisoner serving an in-home sentence.

The AySystem’s sensors can measure changes in sound, temperature, and even motion. You program them, and any measurement outside your proscribed levels sounds an alarm either literally or by email or SMS. The software is Java-based and can be reprogrammed a bit, if you know what you’re doing. Rechargeable batteries are available, but you might not need them because the device runs on solar power. Integrated GPS and GPRS functionality mean that you can take the system anywhere in the world.

Pricing and availability have yet to be announced.