Bluetooth Terminology
Bluetooth is a specification for the use of low-power radio communications over short distances to wireless phones, computers, and other network wireless devices. The name Bluetooth is derived from Harald Bluetooth, a Danish king over 1,000 years ago.
Bluetooth technology was developed primarily to support simple wireless networking of devices and peripherals such as cell phones, PDAs, and wireless headsets. Bluetooth wireless signals cover short distances of up to 30 feet and typically communicate at less than 1 MPps (Mega Byte per second).
READ ALSO: Infrared And Bluetooth
Bluetooth networks use a dynamic topology known as PAN or a piconet. Piconets can have as few as two and as many as eight peer devices.
The devices will communicate via protocols defined in the specification.
Despite the fact that the Bluetooth standard will use the same 2.4 GHz frequency range as 802.11b and 802.11g, the technology is not suitable for Wi-Fi replacement. When compared to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth is much slower, has a shorter range, and supports fewer devices.
Bluetooth is quickly becoming the best option for short-range devices. The technology is more popular with cell phones these days, as Bluetooth headsets are the way to go. Bluetooth must be enabled on your phone, or an infrared device must be located on the phone.
Bluetooth will also be used by future devices such as the PS3 and the Nintendo Revolution. The wireless controllers will be Bluetooth enabled, giving players an advantage.
If you have a smartphone or other wireless device, you should investigate Bluetooth. The technology is nothing short of spectacular, ensuring that it will be around for many years to come. Bluetooth will continue to advance as technology advances.
