Bluetooth USB Dongle: What is It and Where Can You Buy One?

Just like MP3 player, WiFi hotspot, and other strange terms which have become commonplace, you may find yourself asking for a "Bluetooth USB dongle" in the near future, if you haven't already. Just think of it as another way of connecting devices, like USB cables. Because it's radio based it's a little less secure, but with a short range signal it's a reasonably safe and useful way to connect. Many laptops come with Bluetooth capability built in, but for other computers you'll need the "dongle," which is similar to the little "USB drive" memory devices you plug into your computer to backup or transfer files.

Many Bluetooth USB dongles are very similar in design, so they usually work with computers running recent versions of Microsoft Windows, Macintoshes running recent versions of OS X, and computers running Linux as well. You can use them to transfer files such as pictures and video or MP3 files to your cell phone, and you can also transfer data such as address book entries, virtual business cards, and email.

Bluetooth comes in a variety of power levels for the radio signal, which means that the effective range of the USB dongle can vary. Make sure to get one that meets your needs, but doesn't go much beyond. Just as with an unsecured WiFi router, a stray Bluetooth signal is open to possibilities from hackers in the area. It's also a good idea to turn off Bluetooth capabilities when you are storing or transporting devices, because clever thieves can use the signal to find hidden electronic treasures in your briefcase or car.

With any Bluetooth USB dongle, you are looking for two things - that it can communicate with the devices you wish to use with it, and it can interface with your operating system. In some cases you may need to install a driver, although recent Operating System versions for Mac, Linux and Windows PC include support for Bluetooth interfacing.

Most Bluetooth USB dongles should work just fine for you, but as with all electronics you should balance your trust in your source and your ability to return the device if you're not satisfied. Major retailers such as Wal-Mart and Radio Shack offer Bluetooth USB dongles starting at about $30 for a brand name, so you should have a source nearby. If you want to save money or buy in quantity, sources like Microcenter (online and in some cities) and Newegg (online) are trusted by many, and you can get name brands or reduced-cost off brands from them.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bluetooth