What is Bluetooth Wireless Technology?
Bluetooth is a radio standard that allows wireless devices to communicate with each other. That sounds easy, but what does it really mean? Bluetooth allows you to have a accessories for your cell phone that don't require a bunch of wires to get in the way or to keep track of while you're on the go.
Why is it called Bluetooth?
Interestingly, it has nothing to do with the technology - it's not an acronym or some secret engineering code. Bluetooth was actually a King of Denmark back in the 900s who united Denmark and part of Norway. His name is used for this wireless technology in recognition of how important Nordic countries (Denmark, Norway, Finland, and Sweden) are to the wireless communications industry.
Advantages of Bluetooth
Before Bluetooth, most PDAs and wireless devices relied on infrared (and some devices still offer both). Infrared is what your television remote control uses, but that requires a "line of sight" with no major obstructions. You have to point the remote at the television to change the channel. With Bluetooth, the signal is transmitted by radio waves which can bounce around and reach the intended device (your cell phone, computer, headset, etc.).
How Does Bluetooth Work?
Devices are introduced to each other through a process called pairing so they both know it's okay to share information and trust each other. Since the Bluetooth address of a device is permanent, it only needs to be done once (but it can be undone - devices can be deleted). It's a simple process to follow the menus on your cell phone to discover devices and pair them.
Once paired, Bluetooth devices are able to create a mini-network between themselves (called a piconet) that allows them to stay in communication with each other and only each other - avoiding other piconets even in the same room - so two people can sit next to each other using Bluetooth devices and not interfere with each other.
Uses of Bluetooth Wireless Technology
You're probably most familiar with people walking down the street seemingly talking to themselves - then you notice they have a small earpiece and realize they are having a cell phone conversation. That's a Bluetooth wireless headset. Those headsets are becoming increasingly popular now that many states are enacting "hands-free" laws - requiring drivers to put down their cell phones and use technology that lets them keep both hands on the wheel.
Additional uses for Bluetooth technology include transferring files to and from your cell phone. If you'd like to add music to your cell phone or copy pictures you've taken from your camera phone, Bluetooth is a quick and easy way to do that with a Bluetooth enabled computer. If your computer isn't already Bluetooth enabled, there are adapters (called dongles) you can purchase to add that capability.
If you have a smart phone or PDA like a BlackBerry, Treo, or Palm, you may be able to use Bluetooth to sync your device to your computer - updating your calendar, contacts, and email.
More advanced Bluetooth solutions include using the GPS capability in your phone so that your calls are appropriately routed to either your cell phone or your home phone depending on your location. That means you can have just one phone number and the calls go to the correct phone depending on where you are.
Is Bluetooth for Me?
Many cell phones now incorporate Bluetooth wireless technology. If you want the ability to add a wireless headset, easily add music files or copy files to and from your computer or wireless sync your calendar, then be sure to look for a cell phone or PDA with Bluetooth wireless technology.
Shop our selection of Bluetooth enabled cell phones, PDAs and smart phones.
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