What is Bluetooth

Bluetooth is a technology, based on wireless communication, that connects phones, computers, and other devices, allowing them to communicate over short distances.

Much like modern wireless routers and access points, Bluetooth uses 2.4ghz radio waves. Thanks to standardisation of the protocol, Bluetooth devices made by assorted manufacturers can interconnect. This includes GPS, mobile phones, computers, PDAs.

How does it work? Generally, computers do not come Bluetooth enabled (some laptops are the exception). A Bluetooth Dongle is a small thumb sized device that plugs into the USB port on a personal computer. By adding this one small accessory, a PC can connect to a mobile phone and synchronise the address book with data suites, or even Microsoft Outlook. It can also be used to link a standard computer headset to a mobile phone, enabling the computer user to make handsfree calls, without need for a special Bluetooth headset. Other applications allow tracking GPS data, allowing for easy creation of travel maps, diaries, business card exchanges, and more!

Advantages: Other advantages of Bluetooth enabled computers include the ability to transfer ringtones, mp3 tracks, photos, and mobile phone games. It is much simpler than using a data cable, less bulky, and quite inexpensive. Backing up your important contact lists and messages has never been simpler, thanks to Bluetooth.

Simplicity Embodied: Bluetooth hardware is automatically detected, with drivers pre-installed for most devices in Windows XP SP2. Occasionally, driver installation is required, but in those cases a CD accompanies the USB Bluetooth Dongle.

Connecting Devices: After installing the driver (if required), simply plug in the Bluetooth USB Dongle into the computer USB port. Turn on the mobile phone. Voila! The first time the two devices see one another, they will ask to be ‘paired’. This simply means setting a 4 digit passcode the same on one device as the other. A few seconds later, and they will have automagically established a secure connection.

Common Questions:
Q: What does Bluetooth mean?
A: It is named after the 10th century king, nicknamed Bluetooth. His claim to fame is that he united Norway with Denmark.

Q: What distances can Bluetooth cover?
A: Generally 10 metres for home devices. Some other classes allow up to 100 metres, but these are very rare. You can expect 10 to 40 feet, typically, depending on obstructions and interference.

Q: Is Bluetooth line of sight like infrared?
A: No. Bluetooth works much more like wi-fi. It uses radio waves, so it can penetrate, to a certain extent, walls, floors, people, furniture.

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