TechEBlog is reporting on a “Ubuntu Linux controlled DIY cat feeder and water dispenser” created by a fellow named Lee Holmes.
Lee uses his “JasJar PDA phone to SSH into the box, and feed[s] the cats on demand just by running the script.”
The computer runs Ubuntu Linux, so a crontab entry controls the scheduling. The script calls eject /mnt/cdrom to open the CD Rom, delays, and eject –t /mnt/cdrom to close it again.
Head over to TechEBlog and watch the video.