Bluetooth systems create a personal-area network (PAN), or piconet, that may fill a room or may
encompass no more distance than that between the cell phone on a belt-clip and the headset on your
head.
When Bluetooth-capable devices come within range of one another, an electronic conversation takes
place to determine whether they have data to share or whether one needs to control the other. The user
doesn't have to press a button or give a command -- the electronic conversation happens automatically.
Once the conversation has occurred, the devices -- whether they're part of a computer system or a stereo
-- form a network.
Once a piconet is established, the members randomly hop frequencies in unison so they stay in touch
with one another and avoid other piconets that may be operating in the same room.
One of the ways Bluetooth devices avoid interfering with other systems is by sending out very weak
signals of 1 milliwatt. By comparison, the most powerful cell phones can transmit a signal of 3 watts.
The low power limits the range of a Bluetooth device to about 10 meters, cutting the chances of
interference between your computer system and your portable telephone or television. Even with the low
power, the walls in your house won't stop a Bluetooth signal, making the standard useful for controlling
several devices in different rooms.
72_0119_001
28 June 2004
© 2004 Itronix Corporation. All rights reserved.
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