Bluetooth 101

If you’ve never used the technology before, Bluetooth provides a way to connect and exchange information between devices such as mobile phones, telephones, laptops, personal computers, printers, GPS receivers, digital cameras, and video game consoles over a secure, short-range (up to 30 feet) radio frequency bandwidth.

Picture: www.Bluetooth.com

After recent legislation (effective 7/1/08), Washington State law now makes it illegal to use your hands to talk on the phone while driving. The fine: $110. Money aside, there are also serious safety risks that go along with talking on the phone and driving.

So whether your impetus is abiding by the law, or being safe at the wheel, you’ll probably, if you aren’t already, soon be using a Bluetooth headset or dash unit. Here are a couple things to be aware of before you make your purchase.

Pairing

• Pairing is necessary because Bluetooth devices only communicate with each other after sharing a passkey (by user input). Since the Bluetooth address is permanent, a pairing is preserved, even if the Bluetooth name is changed. Pairs can be deleted at any time by either device.

• Some cell phones are not Bluetooth-enabled. So check your owner’s guide or contact your phone’s manufacturer to find other options for complying with the new law.

Phone Compatibility

• If you already have a phone you’re happy with, check your owner’s guide, call the manufacturer or check their web site to find out which headsets will be compatible.

• The array of headset styles is dizzying, so pick one that appeals to you. If possible, try it on before purchasing. Often the in-ear models work better for women and teens. The over-ear hook models will usually stay in place for those with larger ears.

Built-in Headset

• The easiest way to deal with hands free issues is to buy a phone with built-in headset.

• When you climb in the car, just pop off the headset and put it in your ear. When docked, the headset charges along with the phone and there are no compatibility issues – pairing them takes the push of a button.

• As always, check out all the features of any electronic device you are considering to make sure it’s best for you in every dimension prior to purchasing.

About Teacher Blogger Nancy Ferrell

Nancy has been teaching technology skills to those who didn’t grow up with computers since 1985. As Seattle’s Home Computing Coach, she empowers clients who use PCs, Macs and all kinds of hand held digital devices to reach new levels of confidence and competence.