Most of us now have more than a smattering of technology around the home – it is something that we now accept as normal and cannot live without. But what are the key items that we just have to have in the modern home?

Well, a computer has to come first, either a laptop or a fully sized one, so that you can do your word processing, spreadsheets and access your favourite internet sites such as UK Net Guide. Many people also choose to play PC games on their computer.

Most households now also have some sort of Freesat or Feeview box so that they can watch television. The basic ones give you access to TV channels but the more advanced ones allow you to record and pause live TV. Oh, and don't forget the plasma flat screen TV to go with it!

Then there is the MP3 player such as an iPod. Technology has moved on fast from the days of the Walkman disc player and now we can store thousands of songs and photos on one little device.

Don't forget that with all these must-haves there comes a whole range of add-ons that you need to use them to their full potential. Mice, keyboards, speakers, headphones, the list is endless!

We now rely on gadgets for everyday things that never even existed a few years ago.