Can someone explain bluetooth to me?

[Stonecutter]

I understand it relates to wireless internet, and that it's used for cellphone headsets and the like, but I don't understand exactly how it differs from other wireless interent and what the compatablity issues are. If I want to connect a bluetooth device (like a phone) to my computer, what do I need to do?

[Jonbo298]

Bluetooth is a short range wireless type thing. I dont have exact details on it but I know its not more then like 30 feet of range usually.

you need a bluetooth receiver for your computer (usually can get a USB version for pretty cheap nowadays) and appropriate software

[gekko]

Bluetooth is shortrange, and slow. I believe 2.0 is up to 3Mbps. It's meant for things like cell phones, and PDAs. But since every computer and phone takes a special connection, it allows for wireless connection for everything.

The advantage of Bluetooth is that it uses frequencies that are not commonly used by other household devices, such as cordless phones. So it can be used in a home or office without much interference, and it doesn't hit the battery life too hard.

Mac OS X has Bluetooth support built in, so I'm not sure how Windows handles it. I have read a column by a PC user who used a Mac and Bluetooth once, and he basically said he never used bluetooth because it was very unsupported, and then he used it on a Mac and is in love. So I have no idea how well the software support it.

Anyway, yes there are small USB Bluetooth receivers out there. Then use the software to connect to the phone. On Mac, go to the bluetooth menu, and you can setup a device, such as a phone. To "pair" the devices, as in have them always recognize each other, you just click "cell phone" and it searches for devices. Select the phone, and then a number appears on screen. Type it in on the phone, to prevent any random person from connecting to your phone, and then they will be paired. Now go to browse device, and it's like mounting a harddrive. Take photos off the phone, move .mp3s you cropped into ringtones, send Vcards for your contacts. Or, if the software supports it, you can sync everything.

Bluetooth headsets are setup in the same manner, only you set the headset to be detected, then use your phone to find it, and pair it. Everytime I remove my headset from the cradle/belt clip it pairs with the phone automatically.

[Bube]

Windows gets Bluetooth software installed with SP2. But like Gekko said, you need a reciever.