What is "Bluetooth"?

It is primarily a cable-replacement technology

Bluetooth is primarily a cable replacement technology, enabling users to connect to a wide range of computing and telecommunications devices without using cables.

 

Can Bluetooth wireless technology be used for applications other than cable replacement?

The real magic of Bluetooth wireless technology lies in the concept of a Personal Area Network (PAN) and ad hoc connectivity. Through the Discovery Service, PAN devices are capable of spontaneously joining into a network as they approach each other. This occurs only while the devices are in close proximity: the devices leave the network as they are removed from proximity. The opportunity for automatic, unconscious connections between mobile devices provides new freedom for end-users.

 

What is the range for a Bluetooth device?

Depending on the specification of the device, Bluetooth wireless technology works within a 30- to 300-foot radius.

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What is the usable data rate?

The raw (over-the-air) data rate is 1 megabit/second. If two devices are talking to each other in an optimal manner, the channel will support 700 kilobits/second in one direction with a reverse channel of over 50 kilobits simultaneously. Bandwidth allocation is very flexible, and completely under the control of the device which establishes the connection.

 

How does Bluetooth wireless technology handle security issues?

Security is a critical issue in any wireless system Bluetooth provides several components that ensure secure wireless connections. First, at the highest level, the application itself can provide authentication and encryption, and is used in the most critical applications. Second, the Bluetooth specification provides for authentication and flexible encryption at the baseband level. The third level of security is based on the transmitter characteristics of low power and frequency hopping, which helps deter casual eavesdroppers.