It took Schaeffer only five months to analyze the setup and write code that would let him, from his laptop, tell the Scada system to open and close enough breakers to bring down the mock utility--without letting the legitimate operator see what was going on.

FORBES: The Next Threat

Vendors need to make PCs easy to get out of the box, they must provide easy and clear setup instructions (with matching pictures), they should color-code cables, and they must eliminate the need to reboot during the initial setup because it scares new users, he says.

CNN: Technology - Intel: Make PCs simpler

To make it quick and easy to get rolling with Everio, Wi-Fi models are supported by a QR code-based Wi-Fi setup utility, and all models are supported by a mobile user guide that's been optimized for smartphone viewing.

ENGADGET: JVC launches Procision slow-mo HD camcorder, refreshed Everio line at CES

When I botched telephone number selection during setup, however, I had to call Companion tech support for a code to access the dialing screen and the correct numbers.

CNN: Analysis: Are PCs toast? Internet appliances arrive