What is Bluetooth?
Bluetooth is a physical standard
for radio signals and a standard communications protocol. Bluetooth
devices automatically know how to use this standard.
How does Bluetooth work?
Bluetooth
employs "spread-spectrum frequency hopping" (changing frequency 1600
times per second between 79 radio bands) to create tiny personal
networks called piconets. A Bluetooth device can recognize and
communicate with up to eight other devices at a time within the piconet.
What's the range of a Bluetooth device?
Bluetooth devices have a range of approximately 30 feet.
What are the advantages of Bluetooth?
Easy
communications between devices with extremely low power consumption is
the key advantage. Using Bluetooth, you can transfer files (like
photos and music) from one device to another - like from your cell
phone to your computer, for example - or share address books and other
data. It allows for the "pairing" of devices for extra security, like
a hands-free headset for your phone.
How can I tell if my device is Bluetooth capable?
The
Bluetooth logo will appear in your device settings if the functionality
is incorporated. On your PC, it will appear in the Control Panel (or
in the System Preferences on your Mac). On your phone, it should
appear in the settings.
How do I "pair" Bluetooth devices?
While
detailed instructions for pairing are included with the products,
basically pairing involves providing two Bluetooth enabled devices with
a passkey so that they automatically recognize each other when powered
on and within the piconet.
Just for fun: Why is it called Bluetooth?
Bluetooth
is named for Harald Bluetooth Gormson, King of Denmark in the early
20th century. He was responsible for uniting his country and the
Bluetooth communications protocol was named to honor him and his
accomplishments. The Bluetooth logo is composed of two antique runes,
one for "H" and one for "B."
