Wolf: Actually #3, all strict followers of Rav Moshe listen up: Rav Moshe Feinstein felt that they are mezalzel Shabbos. The quote that I heard from one of his close talmidim is that one can run an entire business on Timers. THat’s why he permitted its use only to control lights.
THAT BEING SAID, the Lord gave us a brain/technology to be used. The gemara mentions in Chulin about various foods that are assur, to which Hashem created a kosher item that tastes just like it. So if we find an honest way “around” things, it is our duty to publicize it.
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