Bluetooth Technology Demystified

Bluetooth is a recently created technology that offers a cheaper alternative for communication between electronics like cell phones, laptops, PDAs, MP3 players, and other computer components. It can also refer to the "IEEE 802.15.1" protocol, which was designed especially for such wireless communication.

At its center, Bluetooth is a tiny microchip that works just like a short-range radio connection when plugged into an electronics device, enabling that device for Bluetooth technology. With the microchip in place in two or more electronic components, those devices can now communicate wirelessly with one another. Since Bluetooth utilizes radio signals (which can be sent through walls or other obstructions) these components don't have to be directly pointed at each other, as earlier infrared technology required.

To avoid radio interference from other sources, a Bluetooth signal will change channels whenever it receives or sends data, allowing for a greater measure of security. The range of this technology goes anywhere from one to a hundred meters, varying with the maximum range of power. This also helps avoid some of the problems with other electronics currently utilizing the 2.4 GHz frequency band.

Every Bluetooth-enabled component can stay in communication with up to seven other components inside a given personal network, also called a "piconet". These devices can end up belonging to several piconets at once. Each one "speaks" to the others through a device name, so each device will know with whom it's communicating. The device name you'll use when first establishing your Bluetooth component is usually given in the manual that came with the device..

For better security in wireless networking, Bluetooth technology allows 128-bit encryption and the option for requiring a PIN number. Products utilizing the technology identify themselves with this PIN when they first connect, maintaining a secure connection afterward.

There's a number of applications that currently benefit from Bluetooth technology, used for many purposes. Along with wireless communication, it can also be used to transfer data, MP3 files and pictures between cell phones, cameras, computers or MP3 players.

Although there are a great many advantages to this new technology, there are also a number of limitations and drawbacks. A relatively short communication range is currently the biggest limitation, though work is underway to extend that range. Also, data transfer is a lot slower when compared to other wireless technology in existence. While it's a secure network, it's also prone to interference from other devices operating in the 2.4 GHz band (separate from its ability to change networks), is another cause for concern. Admittedly, Bluetooth technology has a way to go as far as improvements go, but for now the advantages seem to outweigh the drawbacks.