Microsoft is encouraging developers to describe their dream "resource-constrained" device in a new competition launched today to promote their .NET Micro Framework platform. Examples they offer include

• thermostats use weather forecasts to minimize energy usage and to run your sprinkler system,
• retail kiosks checkout items from inside your basket and send out-of-stock items home,
• your refrigerator reorders groceries,
• home appliances negotiate with each other to reduce power consumption, or
• the treadmill monitors your health and provides advice from your doctor?

To enter the first round you simply need to describe the device and how you'd go about creating it. The top 50 finalists will then be given the software and hardware needed to build a working prototype, with top prizes across various categories including around $73,000 worth of cash, free software, consultancy time and PR opportunities.

Check out the competition at dreamdifferentcontest.com