I am currently drawing plans for my new project which I call "The Renters Home Automation System". This is a home automation setup that can be installed in a house/apartment simply and easily without having to remove or replace any light switches or receptacles. It is for a friend who rents an apartment.
I want to make a plug-in multi-plug power strip (complete with GFCI outlet) that is controlled by relays which is controlled via Bluetooth module from a pc or home network (the network is a future project). The problem is that I don't want one of my outlets taken up by an ac adaptor to power the arduino.
I have found many different potential solutions online, from building an AC-DC converter to buying a converter module. What do you guys think would be the best solution? What would you do if you needed to power an Arduino straight from a 120VAC main power source?
Any advise would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for your time.