Bluetooth
wireless technology is a cable replacement technology that provides wireless communication
between portable devices, desktop devices and peripherals. It is used to swap
data and synchronize files between devices without having to connect each other
with cable. The wireless link has a range of 10m which offers the user mobility.
This technology can be used to make wireless data connection to conventional local
area networks (LAN) through an access point. There is no need for the user to
open an application or press button to initiate a process. Bluetooth wireless
technology is always on and runs in the background. Bluetooth devices scan for
other Bluetooth devices and when these devices are in range they start to exchange
messages so they can become aware of each others capabilities. These devices do
not require a line of sight to transmit data with each other. Within a few years
about 80 percent of the mobile phones are expected to carry the Bluetooth chip.The
Bluetooth transceiver operates in the globally available unlicensed ISM radio
band of 2.4GHz.
The ISM bands include frequency range at 902MHz to 928MHz and
2.4GHz to 2.484GHZ which do not require operator license from a regulatory agency.
This means that Bluetooth technology can be used virtually anywhere in the world.
Another type of wireless technology that is being used nowadays is infrared signals.
The choice of using either one of the wireless technology will depend on the application
for which it is being used. Bluetooth is an economical, wireless solution that
is convenient, reliable, easy to use and operates over a longer distance than
infrared. The initial development started in 1994 by Ericsson. Bluetooth now has
a special interest group (SIG) which has 1800 companies worldwide. Bluetooth technology
enables voice and data transmission in a short-range radio. There is a wide range
of devises which can be connected easily and quickly without the need for cables.
Soon people world over will enjoy the convenience, speed and security of instant
wireless connection. Bluetooth is expected to be embedded in hundreds of millions
mobile phones, PCs, laptops and a whole range of other electronic devices in the
next few years. This is mainly because of the elimination of cables and this makes
the work environment look and feel comfortable and inviting.
