Bluetooth:

Connections Matter!

Ok, what on earth is bluetooth?

We've heard of being caught "red handed" or receiving a "black eye" possibly due to the former (getting caught red-handed), but what's blue tooth? Is this a current epidemic of unusual dental discolouration? Ok, it's got something to do with Mobile Phones, right? Well, yes but its got a little bit more to it than merely Cell phones.

Wireless Connectivity

Bluetooth is basically a means of wireless connectivity which allows (Bluetooth) enabled devices to interact with each other, in a secure manner. In other words, one Bluetooth enabled device can "talk" to another!

This development in Information Technology opens up a range of new and existing possibilities for the Corporate Executive, Professional, Student or any other user of the host of IT related "Gadgets" in popular use today.

How did they find a name like that?

Well, the name was taken from King Harold Bluetooth, who reigned in Denmark in the 10th Century A.D. He is said to have been engaged in effective diplomacy which resulted in warring parties having dialogue with one another.

The inventors of the Bluetooth technology thought this a fitting name for their technology which allowed different devices to communicate with each other!

What devices are bluetooth compatible?

Some devices, like Mobile Phones, simply have bluetooth or they don't. With Cellphones, there is no question of upgrading lower end phones to be compatible. The same applies to most PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants). However, PDA/Smartphone users without built in Bluetooth can avail themselves of a flash card size Bluetooth Adapter. Most medium to high end Mobile phones and PDAs are Bluetooth enabled.

The good news for Laptop, Tablet PC and Desktop Computer users? If your device is not already Bluetooth enabled, all you need to do is to connect a tiny device called a "Bluetooth Dongle" into your USB port and presto, you are Bluetooth ready!

These "Dongles" are readily available in Sri Lanka and a reasonably good one can be purchased for approx. Rs.4000 or above. Some Cameras, Handsfree Kits, Vehicle Handsfree kits, Mice, Printers, etc are compatible. Colombo's IT bazaar, which is the area around Unity Plaza and Majestic city, has good bargains.

How do I know if my Mobile Phone/Other Device is compatible

Simply go to "connectivity" on your device menu. This will show as to wether Bluetooth is available. Also, the chapter under "connectivity" in the instruction manual will be helpful. The Universal Logo for bluetooth is shown in the illustration.

Using bluetooth for Productivity and fun

With a bluetooth enabled handsfree unit, talking on your Mobile while driving is a breeze, its safe, and whats more, it would not result in a Rs. 5000 fine and a day's outing in the Narahenpita Traffic Court!

You can answer sales calls, handle client inquiries, etc while walking about your office area, (generally up to 10 meteres) while your phone is on your table.

Users can create a Personal Area Network (PAN) having configuered a series of devices to a particular Bluetooth pass-key.

Camera-phone users can easily transfer photos taken, without cables, directly to Bluetooth enabled printers, computers, etc..

You can also exchange Digital Business cards with other phones/ pdas within range.

You can syncronize information and data, files etc between a Laptop or Desktop computer and a PDA or a smartphone. (A smartphone is a phone with pda capability) all without wires.

The latest Sony PSP gaming/media devices are bluetooth enabled.

Internet/Email

Dialog GSM has a GPRS internet access service which is, on most occasions, reliable and is certainly reasonably priced.If you have a bluetooth enabled phone, you can easily access the Internet by connecting your Laptop or PC to your phone via Bluetooth and thereafter connecting to the internet from your phone using GPRS. I have tried it, it works!

Here to stay

Bluetooth has been known to be streets ahead of its cousin the Infra Red (IrDA) connectivity in every way, as Infra Red is painfully slow, and IrDA devices must have ports facing each other at a very short distance.

It looks as if Bluetooth will be around at least for a few more years. Many modern equipment have Bluetooth as standard equipment.

Some tips before you buy

Before buying a Bluetooth accessory such as a handsfree kit, insist on checking compatibility by actual use.

If your dealer insists that you cant "try before you buy" and states that he is unable to open the packaging, refuse to purchase the product, as some models have been known to have minor incompatibilities.

When testing a handsfree unit, phone a friend who is not in the vicinity, and speaks softly into the mike - receive feedback as to clarity of reception.

Well known brands like Motorola and Sony Ericsson cost a bit more, but are reliable, and work well with any bluetooth compatible brand.

Nokia bluetooth accessories are fine with Nokia phones, but have been known to experience difficulties with devices of other brands.

Always check the Bluetooth version offered. Bluetooth 2.0 is better, faster and can handle a larger volume of data than the previous version 1.0

When purchasing a device such as a PDA or a Smarphone, inquire as to whether this instrument is Bluetooth enabled..

Sinha Dissanayaka
