This BlueWiFi Combo dongle offers both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity.The Bluetooth wireless technology and Wi-Fi are complementary technologies, enjoy both all in one dongle and free up a USB port.
The Bluetooth wireless technology is designed to replace cables between mobile phones, laptops and other computing and communication devises within a 10-meter range.
Wi-Fi is a wireless Ethernet; it provides an extension or replacement of wired networks for dozens of computing devices. Operating distance, up-to 100 meters indoor and up-to 400 meters outdoors.
* WLAN 802.11g + Bluetooth Class11 v.1.2
* The newest and fastest wireless connectivity
* Complementary wireless technology
* Co-existence of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
* Built in external antenna
* Driver included
Item: BlueWiFi - Bluetooth/Wi Fi Combo Dongle
£45.99 Including VAT
Friday, August 28, 2009
Bluetooth vs. Wi-Fi Technology
By Ronald Pacchiano
For the last 15 or so years I have been a loyal Windows user. As with many relationships, this one has not been without its occasional problems. Over the years I've lost count of how many times Windows caused a GPF (define) or simply crashed on me. Two weeks ago I was right in the middle of one of the biggest presentations of my career when Windows crashed. It was a nightmare. Worst yet, I couldn't even get back into the system. Thay was the final straw.
The very next day I went out and purchased my first Apple computer — a PowerBook G4 with a 12.1" display (Model # M9007LL/A). It's really cool looking and everything seems to be working pretty well. It's been a few weeks, and I've been very happy with it except for one thing that I hope you can assist me with.
Now this could just be my unfamiliarity with the Mac OS, but for some reason I can't seem to get the system online. It looks like the MAC's Bluetooth wireless adapter is not communicating with my D-Link DI-614+ wireless router. I've tried a number of things to get around this problem, like disabling WEP (define) and verifying that DHCP (define) has been enabled, but it hasn't helped.
I know my Internet connection and router are functioning properly because my two Windows machines can get online just fine. I've tried calling tech support a few times, but so far I haven't been able to get through to anyone. Is there anything you can tell me that might help rectify this situation?
Hopefully, you've gotten through to tech support by now, but if you haven't, I can tell you without question what your problem is. Simply put, I think you're under the impression that your Bluetooth wireless adapter is designed to perform the same job as the 802.11b adapter installed in your Windows PCs. It isn't.
Bluetooth wireless technology (define) is vastly different from 802.11b wireless local area network technology (define). Not only is it significantly slower than 802.11b products, but it's also completely incompatible with them. To better understand this, let's take a look at what Bluetooth technology is and what exactly it was designed to do.
Bluetooth is a telecommunications industry specification that describes how mobile phones, computers, and personal digital assistants can be easily interconnected using a short-range wireless connection. Bluetooth products achieve this by placing a small, inexpensive radio transmitter/receiver module in each electronic device. This module acts as the physical medium to connect these devices and also provides the necessary communication protocols needed for these devices to successfully transmit data.
For the user, there are three main benefits to using this technology. First of all, it's wireless, so when you travel you don't have to worry about carrying a multitude of connectors and attachments with you just to connect your peripherals. Next, it's very inexpensive, so it won't cost you an arm and a leg to take advantage of it. Finally, Bluetooth doesn't require you to do anything special to make it work. The devices find one another and strike up a conversation without any user input at all. This makes it ridiculously simple to connect previously complicated electronic devices.
For example, your computer connects to your keyboard through a dedicated keyboard port. Your mouse uses the PS2 port, your PDA the USB port, and if you had an older printer, it would need to be connected to your PC's parallel port. All of this means you not only need to know what ports to connect each of these devices to, you also need to know how to configure them.
For the last 15 or so years I have been a loyal Windows user. As with many relationships, this one has not been without its occasional problems. Over the years I've lost count of how many times Windows caused a GPF (define) or simply crashed on me. Two weeks ago I was right in the middle of one of the biggest presentations of my career when Windows crashed. It was a nightmare. Worst yet, I couldn't even get back into the system. Thay was the final straw.
The very next day I went out and purchased my first Apple computer — a PowerBook G4 with a 12.1" display (Model # M9007LL/A). It's really cool looking and everything seems to be working pretty well. It's been a few weeks, and I've been very happy with it except for one thing that I hope you can assist me with.
Now this could just be my unfamiliarity with the Mac OS, but for some reason I can't seem to get the system online. It looks like the MAC's Bluetooth wireless adapter is not communicating with my D-Link DI-614+ wireless router. I've tried a number of things to get around this problem, like disabling WEP (define) and verifying that DHCP (define) has been enabled, but it hasn't helped.
I know my Internet connection and router are functioning properly because my two Windows machines can get online just fine. I've tried calling tech support a few times, but so far I haven't been able to get through to anyone. Is there anything you can tell me that might help rectify this situation?
Hopefully, you've gotten through to tech support by now, but if you haven't, I can tell you without question what your problem is. Simply put, I think you're under the impression that your Bluetooth wireless adapter is designed to perform the same job as the 802.11b adapter installed in your Windows PCs. It isn't.
Bluetooth wireless technology (define) is vastly different from 802.11b wireless local area network technology (define). Not only is it significantly slower than 802.11b products, but it's also completely incompatible with them. To better understand this, let's take a look at what Bluetooth technology is and what exactly it was designed to do.
Bluetooth is a telecommunications industry specification that describes how mobile phones, computers, and personal digital assistants can be easily interconnected using a short-range wireless connection. Bluetooth products achieve this by placing a small, inexpensive radio transmitter/receiver module in each electronic device. This module acts as the physical medium to connect these devices and also provides the necessary communication protocols needed for these devices to successfully transmit data.
For the user, there are three main benefits to using this technology. First of all, it's wireless, so when you travel you don't have to worry about carrying a multitude of connectors and attachments with you just to connect your peripherals. Next, it's very inexpensive, so it won't cost you an arm and a leg to take advantage of it. Finally, Bluetooth doesn't require you to do anything special to make it work. The devices find one another and strike up a conversation without any user input at all. This makes it ridiculously simple to connect previously complicated electronic devices.
For example, your computer connects to your keyboard through a dedicated keyboard port. Your mouse uses the PS2 port, your PDA the USB port, and if you had an older printer, it would need to be connected to your PC's parallel port. All of this means you not only need to know what ports to connect each of these devices to, you also need to know how to configure them.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Build with Bluetooth Technology
The number of Bluetooth enabled products increases daily and building with Bluetooth technology has never been easier. As a manufacturer of a Bluetooth enabled product it is key to remember some basic guidelines as your product is developed.
Steps to Implement Bluetooth Technology
Become a member of the Bluetooth SIG. All companies using the Bluetooth trademark on products are required to become members of the Bluetooth SIG.
Learn and follow the Bluetooth Qualification process.
Test your product using Recognized and Validated Test Systems
Participate in UnPlugFests and other Bluetooth SIG events to ensure your product's interoperability by testing against other products. Go above and beyond the qualification requirements to ensure a good user experience.
Steps to Implement Bluetooth Technology
Become a member of the Bluetooth SIG. All companies using the Bluetooth trademark on products are required to become members of the Bluetooth SIG.
Learn and follow the Bluetooth Qualification process.
Test your product using Recognized and Validated Test Systems
Participate in UnPlugFests and other Bluetooth SIG events to ensure your product's interoperability by testing against other products. Go above and beyond the qualification requirements to ensure a good user experience.
BLUETOOTH TECHNOLOGY GETS FASTER WITH BLUETOOTH 3.0
Bluetooth SIG Adds Speed, Bandwidth via 802.11 with Version 3.0 of the Global Wireless Standard
From its annual All Hands Meeting in Tokyo this week, the Bluetooth SIG formally adopted Bluetooth Core Specification Version 3.0 High Speed (HS), or Bluetooth 3.0. This latest iteration of the popular short-range wireless technology fulfills the consumers’ need for speed while providing the same wireless Bluetooth experience – faster. Manufacturers of consumer electronics and home entertainment devices can now build their products to send large amounts of video, music and photos between devices wirelessly at speeds consumers expect. Bluetooth 3.0 gets its speed from the 802.11 radio protocol. The inclusion of the 802.11 Protocol Adaptation Layer (PAL) provides increased throughput of data transfers at the approximate rate of 24 Mbps. In addition, mobile devices including Bluetooth 3.0 will realize increased power savings due to enhanced power control built in. “Like Ricky Bobby in Talladega Nights, this latest version was ‘born to go fast,’ said Michael Foley, Ph.D., executive director of the Bluetooth SIG. ”Utilizing the 802.11 radio was a natural choice as it provides efficiencies for both our members and consumers – members get more function out of the two radios they are already including in devices, and consumers with Bluetooth v3.0 HS products will get faster exchange of information without changing how they connect. We are excited to expand the possibilities of the PAN.”This newest version of Bluetooth technology builds on the inherent qualities of the current 2.1 EDR version, including Simple Secure Pairing and built-in, automatic security. And as with all versions of the Bluetooth specification, Bluetooth 3.0 HS provides developers, manufacturers and consumers with the benefit of backwards compatibility, enabling both the expansion and enhancement of this technology with every new specification release. Once products reach the market, the easiest way for consumers to learn which devices are compatible with other Bluetooth enabled devices is to visit the Bluetooth Gadget Guide.ApplicationsWith the availability of Bluetooth version 3.0 HS, consumers can expect to move large data files of videos, music and photos between their own devices and the trusted devices of others, without the need for cables and wires. Some applications consumers will experience include:
Wirelessly bulk synchronize music libraries between PC and music player or phone
Bulk download photos to a printer or PC
Send video files from camera or phone to computer or television Availability The Bluetooth SIG’s formal adoption of the specification is only the first step in the product lifecycle. News out today from wireless chip manufacturers and Bluetooth SIG member companies Atheros, Broadcom, CSR, and Marvell shows the second step – getting silicon solutions to device manufacturers – is already underway. End products for consumers are expected to be in the market in 9 to 12 months. Technical Specifications This new specification release includes several major enhancements (learn more here – page requires member login):
Generic Alternate MAC/PHY (AMP)
802.11 Protocol Adaptation Layer (PAL)
Generic Test Methodology
Enhanced Power Control
Unicast Connectionless Data
About Bluetooth® Wireless Technology Bluetooth wireless technology is the global short-range wireless standard for personal connectivity of a broad range of electronic devices. The technology continues to evolve, building on its inherent strengths – small-form factor radio, low power, low cost, built-in security, robustness, ease-of-use, and ad hoc networking abilities. More than nine new Bluetooth enabled products are qualified every working day and 18 million Bluetooth units are shipping per week. There are over two billion Bluetooth devices in the marketplace and that number climbs daily, making it the only proven wireless choice for developers, product manufacturers, and consumers worldwide.
About the Bluetooth SIGThe Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), comprised of leaders in the telecommunications, computing, consumer electronics, automotive and network industries, is driving development of Bluetooth wireless technology and bringing it to market. The Bluetooth SIG includes Promoter group companies Ericsson, Intel, Lenovo, Microsoft, Motorola, Nokia and Toshiba, along with over 11,000 Associate and Adopter member companies. The Bluetooth SIG, Inc. headquarters are located in Bellevue, Washington, U.S.A. For more information please visit www.bluetooth.com.
From its annual All Hands Meeting in Tokyo this week, the Bluetooth SIG formally adopted Bluetooth Core Specification Version 3.0 High Speed (HS), or Bluetooth 3.0. This latest iteration of the popular short-range wireless technology fulfills the consumers’ need for speed while providing the same wireless Bluetooth experience – faster. Manufacturers of consumer electronics and home entertainment devices can now build their products to send large amounts of video, music and photos between devices wirelessly at speeds consumers expect. Bluetooth 3.0 gets its speed from the 802.11 radio protocol. The inclusion of the 802.11 Protocol Adaptation Layer (PAL) provides increased throughput of data transfers at the approximate rate of 24 Mbps. In addition, mobile devices including Bluetooth 3.0 will realize increased power savings due to enhanced power control built in. “Like Ricky Bobby in Talladega Nights, this latest version was ‘born to go fast,’ said Michael Foley, Ph.D., executive director of the Bluetooth SIG. ”Utilizing the 802.11 radio was a natural choice as it provides efficiencies for both our members and consumers – members get more function out of the two radios they are already including in devices, and consumers with Bluetooth v3.0 HS products will get faster exchange of information without changing how they connect. We are excited to expand the possibilities of the PAN.”This newest version of Bluetooth technology builds on the inherent qualities of the current 2.1 EDR version, including Simple Secure Pairing and built-in, automatic security. And as with all versions of the Bluetooth specification, Bluetooth 3.0 HS provides developers, manufacturers and consumers with the benefit of backwards compatibility, enabling both the expansion and enhancement of this technology with every new specification release. Once products reach the market, the easiest way for consumers to learn which devices are compatible with other Bluetooth enabled devices is to visit the Bluetooth Gadget Guide.ApplicationsWith the availability of Bluetooth version 3.0 HS, consumers can expect to move large data files of videos, music and photos between their own devices and the trusted devices of others, without the need for cables and wires. Some applications consumers will experience include:
Wirelessly bulk synchronize music libraries between PC and music player or phone
Bulk download photos to a printer or PC
Send video files from camera or phone to computer or television Availability The Bluetooth SIG’s formal adoption of the specification is only the first step in the product lifecycle. News out today from wireless chip manufacturers and Bluetooth SIG member companies Atheros, Broadcom, CSR, and Marvell shows the second step – getting silicon solutions to device manufacturers – is already underway. End products for consumers are expected to be in the market in 9 to 12 months. Technical Specifications This new specification release includes several major enhancements (learn more here – page requires member login):
Generic Alternate MAC/PHY (AMP)
802.11 Protocol Adaptation Layer (PAL)
Generic Test Methodology
Enhanced Power Control
Unicast Connectionless Data
About Bluetooth® Wireless Technology Bluetooth wireless technology is the global short-range wireless standard for personal connectivity of a broad range of electronic devices. The technology continues to evolve, building on its inherent strengths – small-form factor radio, low power, low cost, built-in security, robustness, ease-of-use, and ad hoc networking abilities. More than nine new Bluetooth enabled products are qualified every working day and 18 million Bluetooth units are shipping per week. There are over two billion Bluetooth devices in the marketplace and that number climbs daily, making it the only proven wireless choice for developers, product manufacturers, and consumers worldwide.
About the Bluetooth SIGThe Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), comprised of leaders in the telecommunications, computing, consumer electronics, automotive and network industries, is driving development of Bluetooth wireless technology and bringing it to market. The Bluetooth SIG includes Promoter group companies Ericsson, Intel, Lenovo, Microsoft, Motorola, Nokia and Toshiba, along with over 11,000 Associate and Adopter member companies. The Bluetooth SIG, Inc. headquarters are located in Bellevue, Washington, U.S.A. For more information please visit www.bluetooth.com.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
UWB Task Force Breakup Doesn't Faze Bluetooth SIG
This week's vote which dissolved the IEEE Task Group that was working to ratify a single UWB standard has certainly cause a few ripples in the wireless technology circles, but it seems the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) isn't really fazed by what's been going on.
Earlier last year, it looked like the SIG and UWB supporters were looking for ways to join the technologies together for various applications, and things seemed to point to something of substance was going to occur sometime this year. The SIG says it is currently studying how UWB and Bluetooth can co-exist, especially in power consumption and mobile devices.
With the various UWB spec groups now going off in different directions, it'll be interesting to see if one of them will strike an agreement with the SIG or the Bluetooth group will look to play every hand possible and work with all of them.
Earlier last year, it looked like the SIG and UWB supporters were looking for ways to join the technologies together for various applications, and things seemed to point to something of substance was going to occur sometime this year. The SIG says it is currently studying how UWB and Bluetooth can co-exist, especially in power consumption and mobile devices.
With the various UWB spec groups now going off in different directions, it'll be interesting to see if one of them will strike an agreement with the SIG or the Bluetooth group will look to play every hand possible and work with all of them.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Bluetooth Software
Bluetooth Software Tools including utilities, protocols, SDKs and other tools.
Bluetooth General-Purpose Software
Software for printing, messaging, photos, mobile phones, synchronizing and more:
Bluetooth SIG
Product Directory The products shown here represent the diversity of Bluetooth products on the market.
Bluetooth Shareware
At BlueShareware.com we are changing all that. We deliver easy-to-use software programs that unleash the power of Bluetooth.
File Transit
Bluetooth Software Shareware, freeware and demo Bluetooth programs.
Program URL.com
Bluetooth Software Shareware, freeware and demo Bluetooth programs.
Shareware Connection
Bluetooth Software Shareware, freeware and demo Bluetooth programs.
Socket Communications
Software and Drivers for Bluetooth Connection Kits for Socket products.
Tucows
Tucows Bluetooth downloads chat, printing, photo, phone utilities, etc.
ZDNet Shareware
Bluetooth Free Downloads, Trialware, Evaluation Software
Bluetooth Development Software
SDKs, Protocol stacks, embedded software tools:
Adamya
Bluetooth Protocol StackSmall size and high-performance stack.Implements HCI, L2CAP, SDP and RFCOMM layers.HCI conforms to HCI_RS232, HCI_UART.Developed in ANSI C.
BSQUARE
Bluetooth Extension to WinDK.The Bluetooth Extension enables developers to seamlessly attach their Bluetooth hardware to a tested and robust Microsoft Windows® Bluetooth stack.
Extended Systems
Bluetooth Software KitsExtended Systems' complete suite of software development kits (SDKs) is designed so manufacturers can quickly implement Bluetooth wireless technology in embedded, Windows CE and Windows based products.
Intel
Flash Data Integrator SoftwareIntel's FDI software is a fully-tested, debugged and Intel-supported data storage manager for use in real-time embedded applications.
Architectural Overview of Intel's Bluetooth Software Stack
Inventop
BluePing Network SDK a software development kit that enables developers to include peer-to-peer and peer-to-multipeer networking and communications features into their Bluetooth-enabled devices and applications.
IVT Corporation
IVT Bluelet™ Protocol StackIVT Bluetooth Protocol Stack is a full implementation of the Bluetooth host protocol stack V1.0B in ANSI C. It contains all protocols in the Bluetooth host protocol stack including TCS, SDP, RFCOMM, L2CAP and HCI. The code is very efficient, reliable, small, and suitable for embedded applications as well as desktop applications.
Lund University - Dept of Automatic Control
A Bluetooth stack in Java.Harald is a small Bluetooth stack for wireless communication between Java applications. Harald accesses the Bluetooth chip via the serial port and therefore requires the JavaComm package to be installed. The stack will operate on any system where Java runs. The package is free for any use and for distribution.
Mecel
Mecel Betula SDK - Automotive Bluetooth Platform Software Development KitThe Mecel Betula SDK provides the automotive industry with a comprehensive Bluetooth platform. It contains all necessary Bluetooth profiles and a majority of applications needed to deliver full Bluetooth functionality. The powerful user interface (high level abstraction) will assist in creating quality software rapidly and cost-effectively. The result is less work for end-product developers.
Mezoe (also see Cambridge Consultants, Cambridge Silicon Radio)
BlueStack protocol software BlueStack is a flexible and configurable Bluetooth protocol stack that is suitable for a wide variety of applications, including mobile phones, cordless headsets and PC-based applications.
Proto Developer software development kit allows you to prototype concept products aimed at communicating with other Bluetooth devices, but without the concern of debugging custom hardware.
Interface Express toolkit for BlueStack SoftwareEasily and rapidly develop products using Bluetooth wireless technology without the need to understand the Bluetooth protocols in detail. Quickly tailor the generated Application Programming Interfaces to match exactly your interface requirements.
Microware
Port of Extended Systems Bluetooth protocol stack for OS-9.
MindTree
EtherMind is MindTree's implementation of the Bluetooth software protocol.Modular and compact it has been designed to support various applications including LAN access point, printers, handheld, mobile phones, residential gateways, etc.The optimized stack can easily be ported onto different platforms by using the OS Abstraction module.
Ethermind Baseband Controller is available as silicon proven synthesizable Verilog core with LMP/HCI firmware. The IP can be reconfigured to work with any 8/16/32 bit microcontroller on which LMP/HCI firmware resides and be reconfigured to interface with many Bluetooth radio implementations.
Nokia
Nokia Bluetooth
Bluetooth for Nokia 6210
Nokia Development Kit for Bluetooth Applications enables you to create Windows applications that use the Bluetooth wireless technology. Currently Windows 95, 98, and Me are supported; Windows NT4.0 and 2000 support is coming in a few months. The Development Kit contains two compact flash cards, two PC card type II (PCMCIA) adapters, Bluetooth Software Suite for Windows, tools, documentation, and sample applications. The Nokia Protocol Tracer tool enables you to analyse Bluetooth packets in real time, or record them for later reference.
Open Interface
BLUEmagic 3.0 embedded Bluetooth protocol stack The BLUEmagic 3.0 embedded Bluetooth protocol stack is a thorough implementation of a fully-configurable, resource-efficient protocol stack targeted at embedded Bluetooth devices and applications. The BLUEmagic 3.0 protocol stack is scalable, modular, and portable, with an innovative, high-performance, compact architecture targeted at embedded devices.
Rococo Software
Impronto is a lightweight middleware platform that allows developers to rapidly build Bluetooth-enabled applications in Java, or to Bluetooth-enable existing applications through industry standard APIs.
Silicon and Software Systems (S3)
S3 has a comprehensive range of Bluetooth software solutions; from Link Control to the Service Discovery Layer. As software is not enough, S3 has partnered with the major Bluetooth hardware suppliers to provide a complete solution.
Socket Communications
Bluetooth Development ProductsSocket Communications is offering four different Bluetooth Software Development Kits.
Bluetooth Card SDK Provides a Bluetooth Card development solution supporting point-to-point connectivity
LAN Access SDK A combined Developer Kit between Socket & Pico Communications
Embedded Developers Kit Provides customized OEM support through the Socket Bluetooth Embedded Module solution
Platform Builder 3.0 Program Offers the ability for Embedded Windows CE developers to design-in Socket Bluetooth Products into their reference platforms based upon Windows CE Platform Builder 3.0 using any of the Kits listed above.
SourceForge.net
BlueZ Bluetooth protocol stack for Linux.
All Bluetooth Software Search software / groups for Bluetooth.
Stollman
ISDN and Bluetooth - Products and Protocol-Stacks
Protocol Stacks:BlueCode+ (Bluetooth upper layer Stack)BlueFace+ (API for Bluetooth aware applications)
Zucotto
XJB 100 Bluetooth protocol stack written in Java.
WHITEboard Software Development Kit, Bluetooth Edition is the first development kit to extend Bluetooth wireless technology to Java 2 Platform, Micro Edition (J2ME) application development.
Xpresso Java native processor is designed specifically to meet the performance demands of memory constrained, battery powered mobile Internet devices.
XPRESSOboard Hardware Development Kit (HDK) is a complete hardware and software development environment for the Xpresso Java native processor.
Bluetooth General-Purpose Software
Software for printing, messaging, photos, mobile phones, synchronizing and more:
Bluetooth SIG
Product Directory The products shown here represent the diversity of Bluetooth products on the market.
Bluetooth Shareware
At BlueShareware.com we are changing all that. We deliver easy-to-use software programs that unleash the power of Bluetooth.
File Transit
Bluetooth Software Shareware, freeware and demo Bluetooth programs.
Program URL.com
Bluetooth Software Shareware, freeware and demo Bluetooth programs.
Shareware Connection
Bluetooth Software Shareware, freeware and demo Bluetooth programs.
Socket Communications
Software and Drivers for Bluetooth Connection Kits for Socket products.
Tucows
Tucows Bluetooth downloads chat, printing, photo, phone utilities, etc.
ZDNet Shareware
Bluetooth Free Downloads, Trialware, Evaluation Software
Bluetooth Development Software
SDKs, Protocol stacks, embedded software tools:
Adamya
Bluetooth Protocol StackSmall size and high-performance stack.Implements HCI, L2CAP, SDP and RFCOMM layers.HCI conforms to HCI_RS232, HCI_UART.Developed in ANSI C.
BSQUARE
Bluetooth Extension to WinDK.The Bluetooth Extension enables developers to seamlessly attach their Bluetooth hardware to a tested and robust Microsoft Windows® Bluetooth stack.
Extended Systems
Bluetooth Software KitsExtended Systems' complete suite of software development kits (SDKs) is designed so manufacturers can quickly implement Bluetooth wireless technology in embedded, Windows CE and Windows based products.
Intel
Flash Data Integrator SoftwareIntel's FDI software is a fully-tested, debugged and Intel-supported data storage manager for use in real-time embedded applications.
Architectural Overview of Intel's Bluetooth Software Stack
Inventop
BluePing Network SDK a software development kit that enables developers to include peer-to-peer and peer-to-multipeer networking and communications features into their Bluetooth-enabled devices and applications.
IVT Corporation
IVT Bluelet™ Protocol StackIVT Bluetooth Protocol Stack is a full implementation of the Bluetooth host protocol stack V1.0B in ANSI C. It contains all protocols in the Bluetooth host protocol stack including TCS, SDP, RFCOMM, L2CAP and HCI. The code is very efficient, reliable, small, and suitable for embedded applications as well as desktop applications.
Lund University - Dept of Automatic Control
A Bluetooth stack in Java.Harald is a small Bluetooth stack for wireless communication between Java applications. Harald accesses the Bluetooth chip via the serial port and therefore requires the JavaComm package to be installed. The stack will operate on any system where Java runs. The package is free for any use and for distribution.
Mecel
Mecel Betula SDK - Automotive Bluetooth Platform Software Development KitThe Mecel Betula SDK provides the automotive industry with a comprehensive Bluetooth platform. It contains all necessary Bluetooth profiles and a majority of applications needed to deliver full Bluetooth functionality. The powerful user interface (high level abstraction) will assist in creating quality software rapidly and cost-effectively. The result is less work for end-product developers.
Mezoe (also see Cambridge Consultants, Cambridge Silicon Radio)
BlueStack protocol software BlueStack is a flexible and configurable Bluetooth protocol stack that is suitable for a wide variety of applications, including mobile phones, cordless headsets and PC-based applications.
Proto Developer software development kit allows you to prototype concept products aimed at communicating with other Bluetooth devices, but without the concern of debugging custom hardware.
Interface Express toolkit for BlueStack SoftwareEasily and rapidly develop products using Bluetooth wireless technology without the need to understand the Bluetooth protocols in detail. Quickly tailor the generated Application Programming Interfaces to match exactly your interface requirements.
Microware
Port of Extended Systems Bluetooth protocol stack for OS-9.
MindTree
EtherMind is MindTree's implementation of the Bluetooth software protocol.Modular and compact it has been designed to support various applications including LAN access point, printers, handheld, mobile phones, residential gateways, etc.The optimized stack can easily be ported onto different platforms by using the OS Abstraction module.
Ethermind Baseband Controller is available as silicon proven synthesizable Verilog core with LMP/HCI firmware. The IP can be reconfigured to work with any 8/16/32 bit microcontroller on which LMP/HCI firmware resides and be reconfigured to interface with many Bluetooth radio implementations.
Nokia
Nokia Bluetooth
Bluetooth for Nokia 6210
Nokia Development Kit for Bluetooth Applications enables you to create Windows applications that use the Bluetooth wireless technology. Currently Windows 95, 98, and Me are supported; Windows NT4.0 and 2000 support is coming in a few months. The Development Kit contains two compact flash cards, two PC card type II (PCMCIA) adapters, Bluetooth Software Suite for Windows, tools, documentation, and sample applications. The Nokia Protocol Tracer tool enables you to analyse Bluetooth packets in real time, or record them for later reference.
Open Interface
BLUEmagic 3.0 embedded Bluetooth protocol stack The BLUEmagic 3.0 embedded Bluetooth protocol stack is a thorough implementation of a fully-configurable, resource-efficient protocol stack targeted at embedded Bluetooth devices and applications. The BLUEmagic 3.0 protocol stack is scalable, modular, and portable, with an innovative, high-performance, compact architecture targeted at embedded devices.
Rococo Software
Impronto is a lightweight middleware platform that allows developers to rapidly build Bluetooth-enabled applications in Java, or to Bluetooth-enable existing applications through industry standard APIs.
Silicon and Software Systems (S3)
S3 has a comprehensive range of Bluetooth software solutions; from Link Control to the Service Discovery Layer. As software is not enough, S3 has partnered with the major Bluetooth hardware suppliers to provide a complete solution.
Socket Communications
Bluetooth Development ProductsSocket Communications is offering four different Bluetooth Software Development Kits.
Bluetooth Card SDK Provides a Bluetooth Card development solution supporting point-to-point connectivity
LAN Access SDK A combined Developer Kit between Socket & Pico Communications
Embedded Developers Kit Provides customized OEM support through the Socket Bluetooth Embedded Module solution
Platform Builder 3.0 Program Offers the ability for Embedded Windows CE developers to design-in Socket Bluetooth Products into their reference platforms based upon Windows CE Platform Builder 3.0 using any of the Kits listed above.
SourceForge.net
BlueZ Bluetooth protocol stack for Linux.
All Bluetooth Software Search software / groups for Bluetooth.
Stollman
ISDN and Bluetooth - Products and Protocol-Stacks
Protocol Stacks:BlueCode+ (Bluetooth upper layer Stack)BlueFace+ (API for Bluetooth aware applications)
Zucotto
XJB 100 Bluetooth protocol stack written in Java.
WHITEboard Software Development Kit, Bluetooth Edition is the first development kit to extend Bluetooth wireless technology to Java 2 Platform, Micro Edition (J2ME) application development.
Xpresso Java native processor is designed specifically to meet the performance demands of memory constrained, battery powered mobile Internet devices.
XPRESSOboard Hardware Development Kit (HDK) is a complete hardware and software development environment for the Xpresso Java native processor.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
How Bluetooth Works
When you use computers, entertainment systems or telephones, the various pieces and parts of the systems make up a community of electronic devices. These devices communicate with each other using a variety of wires, cables, radio signals and infrared light beams, and an even greater variety of connectors, plugs and protocols.
There are lots of different ways that electronic devices can connect to one another. For example:
Component cables
Electrical wires
Ethernet cables
WiFi
Infrared signals
The art of connecting things is becoming more and more complex every day. In this article, we will look at a method of connecting devices, called Bluetooth, that can streamline the process. A Bluetooth connection is wireless and automatic, and it has a number of interesting features that can simplify our daily lives.
The ProblemWhen any two devices need to talk to each other, they have to agree on a number of points before the conversation can begin. The first point of agreement is physical: Will they talk over wires, or through some form of wireless signals? If they use wires, how many are required -- one, two, eight, 25? Once the physical attributes are decided, several more questions arise:
How much data will be sent at a time? For instance, serial ports send data 1 bit at a time, while parallel ports send several bits at once.
How will they speak to each other? All of the parties in an electronic discussion need to know what the bits mean and whether the message they receive is the same message that was sent. This means developing a set of commands and responses known as a protocol.
There are lots of different ways that electronic devices can connect to one another. For example:
Component cables
Electrical wires
Ethernet cables
WiFi
Infrared signals
The art of connecting things is becoming more and more complex every day. In this article, we will look at a method of connecting devices, called Bluetooth, that can streamline the process. A Bluetooth connection is wireless and automatic, and it has a number of interesting features that can simplify our daily lives.
The ProblemWhen any two devices need to talk to each other, they have to agree on a number of points before the conversation can begin. The first point of agreement is physical: Will they talk over wires, or through some form of wireless signals? If they use wires, how many are required -- one, two, eight, 25? Once the physical attributes are decided, several more questions arise:
How much data will be sent at a time? For instance, serial ports send data 1 bit at a time, while parallel ports send several bits at once.
How will they speak to each other? All of the parties in an electronic discussion need to know what the bits mean and whether the message they receive is the same message that was sent. This means developing a set of commands and responses known as a protocol.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Bluetooth wireless technology
Bluetooth wireless technology is a short-range radio technology. Bluetooth wireless technology makes it possible to transmit signals over short distances between telephones, computers and other devices and thereby simplify communication and synchronization between devices. It is a global standard that:
eliminates wires and cables between both stationary and mobile devices;
facilitates both data and voice communication;
offers the possibility of ad hoc networks and delivers the ultimate synchronicity between all your personal devices.
Bluetooth radio uses a fast acknowledgement and frequency-hopping scheme to make the link robust, even in noisy radio environments.
eliminates wires and cables between both stationary and mobile devices;
facilitates both data and voice communication;
offers the possibility of ad hoc networks and delivers the ultimate synchronicity between all your personal devices.
Bluetooth radio uses a fast acknowledgement and frequency-hopping scheme to make the link robust, even in noisy radio environments.
Digital Wireless Multimedia Solution
i.Tech Dynamic Limited was established in 2002 to respond to the burgeoning digital opportunity in the 21st century.
The company's mission is to be a leader in research, design, development, manufacturing, marketing and sales of high value-added electronic and digital products that fulfill and exceed consumer's needs and expectations.
Deploying innovative design, cutting-edge technological know-how and superior manufacturing capabilities, i.Tech Dynamic combines form and performance to create compelling products that offer powerful functionality yet are easy to use, easy on the eye and easy on the pocket.
With its strong industrial design capabilities, core competencies in utilizing leading-edge technology, solid manufacturing expertise and proven marketing abilities, i.Tech Dynamic is strategically positioned to transform technological vision into commercial reality.
Besides manufacturing under the i.Tech Dynamic label, the company provides turnkey contract manufacturing services for many of the world's most trusted and desired brands.
i.Tech Dynamic is headquartered in Hong Kong, operates ultra-modern manufacturing facilities in Mainland China and has an extensive global distribution network of leading retail partners.
The company's mission is to be a leader in research, design, development, manufacturing, marketing and sales of high value-added electronic and digital products that fulfill and exceed consumer's needs and expectations.
Deploying innovative design, cutting-edge technological know-how and superior manufacturing capabilities, i.Tech Dynamic combines form and performance to create compelling products that offer powerful functionality yet are easy to use, easy on the eye and easy on the pocket.
With its strong industrial design capabilities, core competencies in utilizing leading-edge technology, solid manufacturing expertise and proven marketing abilities, i.Tech Dynamic is strategically positioned to transform technological vision into commercial reality.
Besides manufacturing under the i.Tech Dynamic label, the company provides turnkey contract manufacturing services for many of the world's most trusted and desired brands.
i.Tech Dynamic is headquartered in Hong Kong, operates ultra-modern manufacturing facilities in Mainland China and has an extensive global distribution network of leading retail partners.
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
How to install and configure Bluetooth devices in Windows XP Service Pack 2
To install a Bluetooth device, you only have to connect it. Microsoft Windows XP Service Pack 2 (SP2) includes drivers for many Bluetooth devices. If Windows does not recognize a Bluetooth device, you can still use it by using the generic software support that Windows includes, or you can use the driver that the device manufacturer provides. To add a Bluetooth device to your computer, you can use the Add Bluetooth Device Wizard. To configure a Bluetooth connection, you use the Bluetooth Devices item in Control Panel.You can join an ad hoc network between Bluetooth devices by using Personal Area Networking (PAN). When you use PAN, your computer and other Bluetooth devices use TCP/IP networking to communicate. If you have a Bluetooth device that supports dial-up networking, you can use it as a modem. You can use the Add Printer Wizard to use a Bluetooth printer wirelessly. Finally, you can transfer files between Bluetooth-ready computers or devices by using Bluetooth. This article includes step-by-step procedures for these tasks.
National Cyber Alert System
Cyber Security Tip ST05-015
Understanding Bluetooth Technology
What is Bluetooth?
Bluetooth is a technology that allows devices to communicate with each other without cables or wires. It is an electronics "standard," which means that manufacturers that want to include this feature have to incorporate specific requirements into their electronic devices. These specifications ensure that the devices can recognize and interact with other devices that use the Bluetooth technology.
Many popular manufacturers are making devices that use Bluetooth technology. These devices include mobile phones, computers, and personal digital assistants (PDAs). The Bluetooth technology relies on short-range radio frequency, and any device that incorporates the technology can communicate as long as it is within the required distance. The technology is often used to allow two different types of devices to communicate with each other. For example, you may be able to operate your computer with a wireless keyboard, use a wireless headset to talk on your mobile phone, or add an appointment to your friend's PDA calendar from your own PDA.
What are some security concerns?
Depending upon how it is configured, Bluetooth technology can be fairly secure. You can take advantage of its use of key authentication (see Understanding Digital Signatures for more information) and encryption (see Understanding Encryption for more information). Unfortunately, many Bluetooth devices rely on short numeric PIN numbers instead of more secure passwords or passphrases (see Choosing and Protecting Passwords for more information).
If someone can "discover" your Bluetooth device, he or she may be able to send you unsolicited messages or abuse your Bluetooth service, which could cause you to be charged extra fees. Worse, an attacker may be able to find a way to access or corrupt your data. One example of this type of activity is "bluesnarfing," which refers to attackers using a Bluetooth connection to steal information off of your Bluetooth device. Also, viruses or other malicious code can take advantage of Bluetooth technology to infect other devices. If you are infected, your data may be corrupted, compromised, stolen, or lost. You should also be aware of attempts to convince you to send information to someone you do not trust over a Bluetooth connection (see Avoiding Social Engineering and Phishing Attacks for more information).
How can you protect yourself?
Disable Bluetooth when you are not using it - Unless you are actively transferring information from one device to another, disable the technology to prevent unauthorized people from accessing it.
Use Bluetooth in "hidden" mode - When you do have Bluetooth enabled, make sure it is "hidden," not "discoverable." The hidden mode prevents other Bluetooth devices from recognizing your device. This does not prevent you from using your Bluetooth devices together. You can "pair" devices so that they can find each other even if they are in hidden mode. Although the devices (for example, a mobile phone and a headset) will need to be in discoverable mode to initially locate each other, once they are "paired" they will always recognize each other without needing to rediscover the connection.
Be careful where you use Bluetooth - Be aware of your environment when pairing devices or operating in discoverable mode. For example, if you are in a public wireless "hotspot," there is a greater risk that someone else may be able to intercept the connection (see Securing Wireless Networks for more information) than if you are in your home or your car.
Evaluate your security settings - Most devices offer a variety of features that you can tailor to meet your needs and requirements. However, enabling certain features may leave you more vulnerable to being attacked, so disable any unnecessary features or Bluetooth connections. Examine your settings, particularly the security settings, and select options that meet your needs without putting you at increased risk. Make sure that all of your Bluetooth connections are configured to require a secure connection.
Take advantage of security options - Learn what security options your Bluetooth device offers, and take advantage of features like authentication and encryption.
Understanding Bluetooth Technology
What is Bluetooth?
Bluetooth is a technology that allows devices to communicate with each other without cables or wires. It is an electronics "standard," which means that manufacturers that want to include this feature have to incorporate specific requirements into their electronic devices. These specifications ensure that the devices can recognize and interact with other devices that use the Bluetooth technology.
Many popular manufacturers are making devices that use Bluetooth technology. These devices include mobile phones, computers, and personal digital assistants (PDAs). The Bluetooth technology relies on short-range radio frequency, and any device that incorporates the technology can communicate as long as it is within the required distance. The technology is often used to allow two different types of devices to communicate with each other. For example, you may be able to operate your computer with a wireless keyboard, use a wireless headset to talk on your mobile phone, or add an appointment to your friend's PDA calendar from your own PDA.
What are some security concerns?
Depending upon how it is configured, Bluetooth technology can be fairly secure. You can take advantage of its use of key authentication (see Understanding Digital Signatures for more information) and encryption (see Understanding Encryption for more information). Unfortunately, many Bluetooth devices rely on short numeric PIN numbers instead of more secure passwords or passphrases (see Choosing and Protecting Passwords for more information).
If someone can "discover" your Bluetooth device, he or she may be able to send you unsolicited messages or abuse your Bluetooth service, which could cause you to be charged extra fees. Worse, an attacker may be able to find a way to access or corrupt your data. One example of this type of activity is "bluesnarfing," which refers to attackers using a Bluetooth connection to steal information off of your Bluetooth device. Also, viruses or other malicious code can take advantage of Bluetooth technology to infect other devices. If you are infected, your data may be corrupted, compromised, stolen, or lost. You should also be aware of attempts to convince you to send information to someone you do not trust over a Bluetooth connection (see Avoiding Social Engineering and Phishing Attacks for more information).
How can you protect yourself?
Disable Bluetooth when you are not using it - Unless you are actively transferring information from one device to another, disable the technology to prevent unauthorized people from accessing it.
Use Bluetooth in "hidden" mode - When you do have Bluetooth enabled, make sure it is "hidden," not "discoverable." The hidden mode prevents other Bluetooth devices from recognizing your device. This does not prevent you from using your Bluetooth devices together. You can "pair" devices so that they can find each other even if they are in hidden mode. Although the devices (for example, a mobile phone and a headset) will need to be in discoverable mode to initially locate each other, once they are "paired" they will always recognize each other without needing to rediscover the connection.
Be careful where you use Bluetooth - Be aware of your environment when pairing devices or operating in discoverable mode. For example, if you are in a public wireless "hotspot," there is a greater risk that someone else may be able to intercept the connection (see Securing Wireless Networks for more information) than if you are in your home or your car.
Evaluate your security settings - Most devices offer a variety of features that you can tailor to meet your needs and requirements. However, enabling certain features may leave you more vulnerable to being attacked, so disable any unnecessary features or Bluetooth connections. Examine your settings, particularly the security settings, and select options that meet your needs without putting you at increased risk. Make sure that all of your Bluetooth connections are configured to require a secure connection.
Take advantage of security options - Learn what security options your Bluetooth device offers, and take advantage of features like authentication and encryption.
Can Bluetooth tech save teen lives?
Special driving mode makes it impossible to talk or text when the car is on
In an effort to reduce the number of traffic accidents among teen drivers, a Utah company is using Bluethooth technology to create a special driving mode that makes it impossible for a driver to talk or text when the car is on. A specially made key, pictured here, is activated only when the phone is in a passive mode.
Teenagers are notorious for bad driving and animated cell phone conversations, and doing the two simultaneously is an especially deadly mix. Now in an effort to reduce the number one killer of teens, a Utah company is using Bluetooth technology to create a special driving mode that makes it impossible for a driver to talk or text when the car is on.
"The recent stats show that texting on the phone has overtaken drunk driving fatalities on public roads," said Ronn Hartman of Accendo LC, the company working to commercialize the technology. "This is all about saving lives and safer driving."
Every year more than an estimated 330,000 people are injured in cell-phone-related accidents, which kill more than 2,000 people annually. Recent studies have shown that talking or texting on a cell phone can be as dangerously distracting as drunk driving.
In an effort to keep drivers focused on the road, several states have banned drivers from using cell phones while driving, or require hands-free devices, such as those equipped with Bluetooth.
Yet for some people, laws are made to be broken, and even hands-free conversations can quickly become distracting.
To address that problem, the scientists developed a special Bluetooth-equipped key. In the current prototype, pushing a button both releases the key from its shell and activates the embedded Bluetooth technology, which finds the person's cell phone and puts it into driving mode.
When in driving mode, the phone automatically answers all incoming texts and voicemails with, "I am driving now. I will call you later when I arrive at the destination safely." The only calls allowed out are to emergency services.
When the driver turns off the car, they slide the key back to an inactive mode, which returns the phone to normal operation.
Hartman expects to have a commercial version available for purchase within the next several months. Parents would have access to a Web site tracking their teen's driving and talking habits.
That's a fair amount of effort, but soon the service could be an option when buying a new car. Major (but undisclosed) automobile manufacturers have contacted Hartman about including the technology in new vehicles, he said. Insurance companies have also contacted Hartman, raising the possibility of lower insurance rates for families with the technology.
Whenever Key2SafeDriving is implemented, it should reduce the number of car accidents, particularly among teenagers, said David Strayer, a professor at the University of Utah who studies the effects of talking and texting on driving.
In an effort to reduce the number of traffic accidents among teen drivers, a Utah company is using Bluethooth technology to create a special driving mode that makes it impossible for a driver to talk or text when the car is on. A specially made key, pictured here, is activated only when the phone is in a passive mode.
Teenagers are notorious for bad driving and animated cell phone conversations, and doing the two simultaneously is an especially deadly mix. Now in an effort to reduce the number one killer of teens, a Utah company is using Bluetooth technology to create a special driving mode that makes it impossible for a driver to talk or text when the car is on.
"The recent stats show that texting on the phone has overtaken drunk driving fatalities on public roads," said Ronn Hartman of Accendo LC, the company working to commercialize the technology. "This is all about saving lives and safer driving."
Every year more than an estimated 330,000 people are injured in cell-phone-related accidents, which kill more than 2,000 people annually. Recent studies have shown that talking or texting on a cell phone can be as dangerously distracting as drunk driving.
In an effort to keep drivers focused on the road, several states have banned drivers from using cell phones while driving, or require hands-free devices, such as those equipped with Bluetooth.
Yet for some people, laws are made to be broken, and even hands-free conversations can quickly become distracting.
To address that problem, the scientists developed a special Bluetooth-equipped key. In the current prototype, pushing a button both releases the key from its shell and activates the embedded Bluetooth technology, which finds the person's cell phone and puts it into driving mode.
When in driving mode, the phone automatically answers all incoming texts and voicemails with, "I am driving now. I will call you later when I arrive at the destination safely." The only calls allowed out are to emergency services.
When the driver turns off the car, they slide the key back to an inactive mode, which returns the phone to normal operation.
Hartman expects to have a commercial version available for purchase within the next several months. Parents would have access to a Web site tracking their teen's driving and talking habits.
That's a fair amount of effort, but soon the service could be an option when buying a new car. Major (but undisclosed) automobile manufacturers have contacted Hartman about including the technology in new vehicles, he said. Insurance companies have also contacted Hartman, raising the possibility of lower insurance rates for families with the technology.
Whenever Key2SafeDriving is implemented, it should reduce the number of car accidents, particularly among teenagers, said David Strayer, a professor at the University of Utah who studies the effects of talking and texting on driving.
Display All Detected Bluetooth Devices
All recent Microsoft operating systems (that is Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7) come with Bluetooth support provided they are equipped with a Bluetooth Dongle or other hardware device that is used to detect and connect the Bluetooth devices in the proximity of the computer system.
Bluetooth CL has been designed to provide a quick and effective way of detecting Bluetooth devices on computer systems running Windows that support Bluetooth. It is a command line software that detects Bluetooth devices and displays its MAC address, name, major and minor device type and optionally the company name of the device.
The command line tool does not come with a lot of options unlike other Nirsoft applications. It can be executed by simply launching BluetoothCL.exe without parameters. The results are then displayed in the command line window. It is possible to dump the results in a text file by simply appending > bluetooth.txt (or whatever you want to name the text file) after the file name.
The only other parameter that is available is the timeout parameter that defines the timeout for the Bluetooth scanning process. Appending -timeout xx where xx is the time in seconds will do the trick. To dump a list of all Bluetooth devices in the file blue.txt with a timeout of 20 seconds one would issue the following command:
BluetoothCL.exe -timeout 20 > blue.txt
The company name of the device cannot be detected unless the text document oui.txt is downloaded from another website and put in the same directory as the BluetoothCL executable.
Bluetooth CL has been designed to provide a quick and effective way of detecting Bluetooth devices on computer systems running Windows that support Bluetooth. It is a command line software that detects Bluetooth devices and displays its MAC address, name, major and minor device type and optionally the company name of the device.
The command line tool does not come with a lot of options unlike other Nirsoft applications. It can be executed by simply launching BluetoothCL.exe without parameters. The results are then displayed in the command line window. It is possible to dump the results in a text file by simply appending > bluetooth.txt (or whatever you want to name the text file) after the file name.
The only other parameter that is available is the timeout parameter that defines the timeout for the Bluetooth scanning process. Appending -timeout xx where xx is the time in seconds will do the trick. To dump a list of all Bluetooth devices in the file blue.txt with a timeout of 20 seconds one would issue the following command:
BluetoothCL.exe -timeout 20 > blue.txt
The company name of the device cannot be detected unless the text document oui.txt is downloaded from another website and put in the same directory as the BluetoothCL executable.
USB, Bluetooth ‘grip consumer mindshare’
USB is the most popular and most used interface among users of home and business PCs, while Bluetooth is proving highly popular in mobile phones, claims analyst In-Stat. According to a company survey of US consumers, both interfaces are well known for multiple uses at home and at work. “For home use, USB flash drives were the most popular USB application, followed by printers and digital still cameras,” says Brian O’Rourke, In-Stat analyst. “For Bluetooth, 34 percent of respondents use the interface to connect their mobile phones to home PCs. Mouse/keyboards and PDA/handheld PCs were commonly connected via Bluetooth as well.” The company also found the following:
USB is the most-used digital interface in home and work PCs, followed by 1394, Bluetooth, DVI and HDMI;
Well over half of respondents own a mobile phone with Bluetooth technology - with nearly 60 percent of them using it to connect a Bluetooth headset.
Over 25 percent of respondents with HDMI ports on their PC said they used HDMI to connect their PC to their Digital television (DTV).
USB is the most-used digital interface in home and work PCs, followed by 1394, Bluetooth, DVI and HDMI;
Well over half of respondents own a mobile phone with Bluetooth technology - with nearly 60 percent of them using it to connect a Bluetooth headset.
Over 25 percent of respondents with HDMI ports on their PC said they used HDMI to connect their PC to their Digital television (DTV).
Monday, August 3, 2009
How Bluetooth Works
Inside this Article
Introduction to How Bluetooth Works
How Bluetooth Creates a Connection
How Bluetooth Operates
Bluetooth Piconets
Bluetooth Security
Lots More Information
See more »
See all Wireless articles
Ford Sync
More Electronics Videos »
Bluetooth Image Gallery
Photo courtesy DealTimeJabra FreeSpeak BT250 Bluetooth headset. See more bluetooth pictures.
When you use computers, entertainment systems or telephones, the various pieces and parts of the systems make up a community of electronic devices. These devices communicate with each other using a variety of wires, cables, radio signals and infrared light beams, and an even greater variety of connectors, plugs and protocols.
There are lots of different ways that electronic devices can connect to one another. For example:
Component cables
Electrical wires
Ethernet cables
WiFi
Infrared signals
The art of connecting things is becoming more and more complex every day. In this article, we will look at a method of connecting devices, called Bluetooth, that can streamline the process. A Bluetooth connection is wireless and automatic, and it has a number of interesting features that can simplify our daily lives.
More on Bluetooth Bluetooth QuizBluejackingDiscovery.com: Bluetooth Frankenrobot
The ProblemWhen any two devices need to talk to each other, they have to agree on a number of points before the conversation can begin. The first point of agreement is physical: Will they talk over wires, or through some form of wireless signals? If they use wires, how many are required -- one, two, eight, 25? Once the physical attributes are decided, several more questions arise:
How much data will be sent at a time? For instance, serial ports send data 1 bit at a time, while parallel ports send several bits at once.
How will they speak to each other? All of the parties in an electronic discussion need to know what the bits mean and whether the message they receive is the same message that was sent. This means developing a set of commands and responses known as a protocol.
Bluetooth offers a solution to the problem.
Introduction to How Bluetooth Works
How Bluetooth Creates a Connection
How Bluetooth Operates
Bluetooth Piconets
Bluetooth Security
Lots More Information
See more »
See all Wireless articles
Ford Sync
More Electronics Videos »
Bluetooth Image Gallery
Photo courtesy DealTimeJabra FreeSpeak BT250 Bluetooth headset. See more bluetooth pictures.
When you use computers, entertainment systems or telephones, the various pieces and parts of the systems make up a community of electronic devices. These devices communicate with each other using a variety of wires, cables, radio signals and infrared light beams, and an even greater variety of connectors, plugs and protocols.
There are lots of different ways that electronic devices can connect to one another. For example:
Component cables
Electrical wires
Ethernet cables
WiFi
Infrared signals
The art of connecting things is becoming more and more complex every day. In this article, we will look at a method of connecting devices, called Bluetooth, that can streamline the process. A Bluetooth connection is wireless and automatic, and it has a number of interesting features that can simplify our daily lives.
More on Bluetooth Bluetooth QuizBluejackingDiscovery.com: Bluetooth Frankenrobot
The ProblemWhen any two devices need to talk to each other, they have to agree on a number of points before the conversation can begin. The first point of agreement is physical: Will they talk over wires, or through some form of wireless signals? If they use wires, how many are required -- one, two, eight, 25? Once the physical attributes are decided, several more questions arise:
How much data will be sent at a time? For instance, serial ports send data 1 bit at a time, while parallel ports send several bits at once.
How will they speak to each other? All of the parties in an electronic discussion need to know what the bits mean and whether the message they receive is the same message that was sent. This means developing a set of commands and responses known as a protocol.
Bluetooth offers a solution to the problem.
Bluetooth Technology
"Automatic communication between various devices within a small area in a house or an office makes it possible to provide unique and innovative services to a professional worker or a small group of workers using portable devices. Bluetooth technology has this potential and is coming along fast and quick. It will replace clumsy wires, make information transfer automatic without synchronization cradles and introduce many new applications. Technology visionaries hope that it will do what infra red could not do over the past six years." - Editor
In an attempt to standardize data transfer and synchronization between disparate mobile devices in the short-distance range, Intel and Microsoft established in 1998 a major industry consortium that included IBM, Toshiba, Ericsson, Nokia, and Puma Technology. Code-named Blue Tooth for the 10th century Danish king who unified Denmark, the companies have created a single synchronization protocol to address end-user problems arising from the proliferation of various mobile devices -- including smart phones, smart pagers, PDAs, handheld PCs, copiers, printers, notebooks, and many future digital appliances at home -- that need to keep data consistent from one device to another. The proposed Bluetooth solutions (hardware and software-based) would automatically synchronize mobile devices when end-users enter their offices or home. Intel and others are designing the sending and receiving radio frequency chip sets. Price point for hardware is in $5-20 range eventually.
Since the start of this initiative in 1998, interest in Bluetooth has grown tremendously - signified by 1800 members of Bluetooth consortium by mid 2000.
While Bluetooth consortium demonstrated prototype products in the 1999-2000, there are no production-quality enduser products using blue tooth technology as of now, as far as we know. Component products (radios and chips) that can be integrated into finished products have started becoming available from Ericsson and others. However, here is an opportunity for more start-up companies. irDA is a competing technology and has been implemented in many products for over 6-7 years now but BlueTooth has a few distinct advantages - with Ericsson/Microsoft/Intel team behind it. In our opinion, there are relative benefits with several competing technologies - there is some overlap too. Let competitive products thrive so that we the users get the best solutions.
How does Blue Tooth compare to irDA - a competitive (or complimentary) technology? Click here for a vendor viewpoint by Counterpoint division of Extended Systems.
Bluetooth Technology ~ Table of Contents ~
> What is Bluetooth?
> How Bluetooth Technology Works
> The Air Interface & Frequency Band
> What are the Applications?
> The Current State of the Technology
> Competitive Technology Alternatives
> What’s the future outlook for Bluetooth
> Standards and Specifications
> Software Development Tools
> Tentative Timetable for Bluetooth Adoption
> Bluetooth Products & Vendors
> Bluetooth versus 802.11b Wireless LAN
> FAQ
> Other Resources
In an attempt to standardize data transfer and synchronization between disparate mobile devices in the short-distance range, Intel and Microsoft established in 1998 a major industry consortium that included IBM, Toshiba, Ericsson, Nokia, and Puma Technology. Code-named Blue Tooth for the 10th century Danish king who unified Denmark, the companies have created a single synchronization protocol to address end-user problems arising from the proliferation of various mobile devices -- including smart phones, smart pagers, PDAs, handheld PCs, copiers, printers, notebooks, and many future digital appliances at home -- that need to keep data consistent from one device to another. The proposed Bluetooth solutions (hardware and software-based) would automatically synchronize mobile devices when end-users enter their offices or home. Intel and others are designing the sending and receiving radio frequency chip sets. Price point for hardware is in $5-20 range eventually.
Since the start of this initiative in 1998, interest in Bluetooth has grown tremendously - signified by 1800 members of Bluetooth consortium by mid 2000.
While Bluetooth consortium demonstrated prototype products in the 1999-2000, there are no production-quality enduser products using blue tooth technology as of now, as far as we know. Component products (radios and chips) that can be integrated into finished products have started becoming available from Ericsson and others. However, here is an opportunity for more start-up companies. irDA is a competing technology and has been implemented in many products for over 6-7 years now but BlueTooth has a few distinct advantages - with Ericsson/Microsoft/Intel team behind it. In our opinion, there are relative benefits with several competing technologies - there is some overlap too. Let competitive products thrive so that we the users get the best solutions.
How does Blue Tooth compare to irDA - a competitive (or complimentary) technology? Click here for a vendor viewpoint by Counterpoint division of Extended Systems.
Bluetooth Technology ~ Table of Contents ~
> What is Bluetooth?
> How Bluetooth Technology Works
> The Air Interface & Frequency Band
> What are the Applications?
> The Current State of the Technology
> Competitive Technology Alternatives
> What’s the future outlook for Bluetooth
> Standards and Specifications
> Software Development Tools
> Tentative Timetable for Bluetooth Adoption
> Bluetooth Products & Vendors
> Bluetooth versus 802.11b Wireless LAN
> FAQ
> Other Resources
What Is Bluetooth?
Well it isn't some strange form of tooth decay as you might initially imagine. Bluetooth is the name of a new technology that is now becoming commercially available. It promises to change significantly the way we use machines.
1 Take a look around
Look around you at the moment, you have your keyboard connected to the computer, as well as a printer, mouse, monitor and so on. What (literally) joins all of these together?, they are connected by cables. Cables have become the bane of many offices, homes etc. Most of us have experienced the 'joys' of trying to figure out what cable goes where, and getting tangled up in the details. Bluetooth essentially aims to fix this, it is a cable-replacement technology
2 How?
Conceived initially by Ericsson, before being adopted by a myriad of other companies, Bluetooth is a standard for a small , cheap radio chip to be plugged into computers, printers, mobile phones, etc.A Bluetooth chip is designed to replace cables by taking the information normally carried by the cable, and transmitting it at a special frequency to a receiver Bluetooth chip, which will then give the information received to the computer, phone whatever.
3 How about ?
That was the original idea, but the originators of the original idea soon realised that a lot more was possible. If you can transmit information between a computer and a printer, why not transmit data from a mobile phone to a printer, or even a printer to a printer?. The projected low cost of a Bluetooth chip (~$5), and its low power consumption, means you could literally place one anywhere.
4 Ideas, ideas...
With this viewpoint interest in Bluetooth is soaring, lots of ideas are constantly emerging, some practical and feasible e.g.: Bluetooth chips in freight containers to identify cargo when a lorry drives into a storage depot, or a headset that communicates with a mobile phone in your pocket, or even in the other room, other ideas not so feasible: Refrigerator communicating with your Bluetooth-enabled computer, informing it that food supply is low, and to inform the retailer over the internet.
5 The future, this website
Whatever the ideas, Bluetooth is set to take off. To be honest it's going to be forced down the consumers necks, whether they want it or not, as too many companies have invested in it. This website is generally geared towards the technical issues surrounding Bluetooth, and its implementation in real life. But free feel to have a look around anyway, and see why this technology will have such a big impact on our lives. If you're a complete beginner & you want to know more go to the other pages on the website: the Tutorial has a reasonably in-depth guide to Bluetooth (can be quite technical in parts though), our members-only Download** page has some more general introductions to Bluetooth to download. Also check out the Resource Center, Articles, Glossary & Knowledge Base to further enhance your Bluetooth education. There are also related Resource Centers on IEEE 802.11 WiFi Wireless LANs, HomeRF, GPS, SyncML, ZigBee and other mobile and wireless technologies. Enjoy!
** Note that although many sections of this web site are freely available, some require a free membership and others are available only to paid members.
6 Looking after your teeth
By the way if, you're wondering where the Bluetooth name originally came from, it named after a Danish Viking and King, Harald Blåtand (translated as Bluetooth in English), who lived in the latter part of the 10th century. Harald Blåtand united and controlled Denmark and Norway (hence the inspiration on the name: uniting devices through Bluetooth). He got his name from his very dark hair which was unusual for Vikings, Blåtand means dark complexion. However a more popular, (but less likely reason), was that Old Harald had a inclination towards eating Blueberries , so much so his teeth became stained with the colour, leaving Harald with a rather unique set of molars. And you thought your teeth were bad...
1 Take a look around
Look around you at the moment, you have your keyboard connected to the computer, as well as a printer, mouse, monitor and so on. What (literally) joins all of these together?, they are connected by cables. Cables have become the bane of many offices, homes etc. Most of us have experienced the 'joys' of trying to figure out what cable goes where, and getting tangled up in the details. Bluetooth essentially aims to fix this, it is a cable-replacement technology
2 How?
Conceived initially by Ericsson, before being adopted by a myriad of other companies, Bluetooth is a standard for a small , cheap radio chip to be plugged into computers, printers, mobile phones, etc.A Bluetooth chip is designed to replace cables by taking the information normally carried by the cable, and transmitting it at a special frequency to a receiver Bluetooth chip, which will then give the information received to the computer, phone whatever.
3 How about ?
That was the original idea, but the originators of the original idea soon realised that a lot more was possible. If you can transmit information between a computer and a printer, why not transmit data from a mobile phone to a printer, or even a printer to a printer?. The projected low cost of a Bluetooth chip (~$5), and its low power consumption, means you could literally place one anywhere.
4 Ideas, ideas...
With this viewpoint interest in Bluetooth is soaring, lots of ideas are constantly emerging, some practical and feasible e.g.: Bluetooth chips in freight containers to identify cargo when a lorry drives into a storage depot, or a headset that communicates with a mobile phone in your pocket, or even in the other room, other ideas not so feasible: Refrigerator communicating with your Bluetooth-enabled computer, informing it that food supply is low, and to inform the retailer over the internet.
5 The future, this website
Whatever the ideas, Bluetooth is set to take off. To be honest it's going to be forced down the consumers necks, whether they want it or not, as too many companies have invested in it. This website is generally geared towards the technical issues surrounding Bluetooth, and its implementation in real life. But free feel to have a look around anyway, and see why this technology will have such a big impact on our lives. If you're a complete beginner & you want to know more go to the other pages on the website: the Tutorial has a reasonably in-depth guide to Bluetooth (can be quite technical in parts though), our members-only Download** page has some more general introductions to Bluetooth to download. Also check out the Resource Center, Articles, Glossary & Knowledge Base to further enhance your Bluetooth education. There are also related Resource Centers on IEEE 802.11 WiFi Wireless LANs, HomeRF, GPS, SyncML, ZigBee and other mobile and wireless technologies. Enjoy!
** Note that although many sections of this web site are freely available, some require a free membership and others are available only to paid members.
6 Looking after your teeth
By the way if, you're wondering where the Bluetooth name originally came from, it named after a Danish Viking and King, Harald Blåtand (translated as Bluetooth in English), who lived in the latter part of the 10th century. Harald Blåtand united and controlled Denmark and Norway (hence the inspiration on the name: uniting devices through Bluetooth). He got his name from his very dark hair which was unusual for Vikings, Blåtand means dark complexion. However a more popular, (but less likely reason), was that Old Harald had a inclination towards eating Blueberries , so much so his teeth became stained with the colour, leaving Harald with a rather unique set of molars. And you thought your teeth were bad...
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