Bits'n'Bytes

As heard on CJCD

Episode 43

Lots of cool new electronic stuff on the market is touting Bluetooth technology. Here's what it is and how it got it's name…

Bluetooth technology was developed in Sweden and was intended to unify different technologies like computers and mobile phones. It got it's name from the King of Denmark and Norway, Harald Bluetooth, who was able to successfully unite the warring tribes of Denmark and Norway during the 10th century.

Bluetooth uses radio signals to transmit data between devices. The frequency used is in the 2.45 GHz range because that range doesn't require a license to use. Version 1.1 and 1.2 devices can transmit at just over 700 Kb/s and version 2 devices can transmit at about 2.1Mb/s.

There are three classes of devices, 1, 2 and 3 - each with their own power and range restrictions. For example, class 3 devices, such as mice and keyboards have a power consumption of about 1mW and can transmit only about a meter. The mouse or keyboard will connect with a USB adapter plugged into your computer that is Bluetooth capable. A class 1 device might be a Bluetooth headset that can communicate with the base unit of a phone.

Bluetooth devices have become popular over the use of some WiFi devices for wireless communication because it incorporates it's own discovery protocols. This means a Bluetooth device doesn't have as many configuration issues as a WiFi device might. The transmission rates of Bluetooth are nowhere near the rates of WiFi, so it is generally used when high bandwidth is not required - like in keyboards, mice and headsets.

Stay tuned next week when I look at some neat uses for Microsoft Excel.

I’m Computer Dave, thanks for your time.