B.O.B. Says: Time’s up!

How many times has a half-hour PlayStation session turned into a three-hour Madden marathon in your house? I don't want to tell you how often my 10-year-old son's "just-a-minute" plea has turned into 60 after I've told him to shut down his game.

Hopscotch Technology is banking on its new device, B.O.B., to lend a hand in homes across the country. The time management device plugs directly into your TV, letting you set individual TV time limits for up to six children. When they reach their limit, the TV shuts off. Period. You can protect your settings using passwords – or use a lock and key to foil the most resourceful kids.

You can block out TV use altogether for periods of time, such as between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. -- peak homework hours when parents are often at work.

B.O.B. stands for Bring on Balance. “Our CEO is a little corny,” explains Hopscotch Technology President Brian Baker. Baker and CEO Tom Gallop are at CES looking for buyers and distributors for B.O.B, which will be available in April for $79.95.

What about B.O.B.?