Content

• To step
• Part 1 of 2: Getting started with Bluetooth
• Part 2 of 2: Using Bluetooth Technology
• Tips

Bluetooth technology allows users to exchange voice and data transmissions between 2 or more electronic devices, provided all devices are a short distance apart. There are tons of ways to take advantage of Bluetooth technology, such as connecting a hands-free earphone to your mobile phone, pairing a Bluetooth printer with your computer to get rid of all those extra cords and cables in your office , and more. See Step 1 below to learn how to get the most out of your devices with Bluetooth available.

To step

Part 1 of 2: Getting started with Bluetooth

1. What is Bluetooth. Bluetooth is a technique for making a wireless connection, with which you can link devices so that they can communicate with each other. For example, you can pair a headset with most smartphones, allowing you to have a conversation without touching your phone. You can connect a game controller to a computer or console so that you are not bothered by cables. You can send music to a Bluetooth speaker via the smartphone or laptop, without a physical connection, or set up a home theater system with no speaker wires lying around.
   • Bluetooth has a maximum range of about 30 meters.
   • Bluetooth has a transmission speed of up to approximately 24 Mbps.
2. Check if your devices have Bluetooth. Bluetooth has been around for a while (about 20 years), and is the market leader in wireless connectivity. Chances are your wireless device supports Bluetooth. The big exception in this area is desktop computers. While almost all laptops have Bluetooth built-in, this is not the case for most desktops. In that case you need a Bluetooth dongle to connect to other Bluetooth devices.
   • Many modern cars nowadays also have Bluetooth capabilities, so you can connect your phone on the go.
   • Almost any smartphone is capable of connecting to Bluetooth devices.
   • Many newer printers have Bluetooth and can print wirelessly.
3. The capabilities of your Bluetooth devices. Each Bluetooth device has one or more different functions. For example, some cell phones can only use Bluetooth to make phone calls, while there are also cell phones that can exchange files with other cell phones. Each Bluetooth device has slightly different functionality.
   • Check the manuals or contact the manufacturers of your electronic devices to determine how to use their Bluetooth technology.
4. Pair your Bluetooth devices. To use Bluetooth technology, it is necessary to connect your devices wirelessly, also known as "pairing". This process varies by device, but generally you have one device "listening", and then a second device is put into pairing mode. For example, if you want to pair a headset with a phone, the phone will be put in "listening" mode, and the headset in "pairing" mode. The phone should then "discover" the headset and establish the connection.
   • Follow the instructions from your Bluetooth devices to complete this pairing process. In most cases, it will be necessary to perform a series of specific steps that will result in the pairing of the devices.
   • When pairing devices, you will usually be asked for a pin code before the connection is established. If a PIN has never been set, the default value is probably 0000.
   • Pairing usually only needs to be done once. If Bluetooth is enabled on the devices, a future connection will continue automatically.

Part 2 of 2: Using Bluetooth Technology

1. Transfer of files between devices. Some Bluetooth devices allow you to transfer files and documents from one device to another. For example, if your friend has a lot of good photos on his camera, you can pair them with your own phone to get copies quickly.
   • Exchange files between mobile phones, cameras and camcorders, computers, televisions, among others.
2. Use Bluetooth technology for phone calls. Bluetooth headphones can be paired with some landline or mobile phones so that you can make hands-free calls. This is especially useful if you find yourself often on the phone for work, and don't want to pick up your phone every time to make or receive a call.
3. Connect your phone to your computer. Connecting (tethering) your device allows you to share your phone's mobile network connection with your computer. This allows you to surf the internet with your computer without having to use WiFi. Not all services allow this, so check with your mobile provider. Sometimes there are additional costs involved.
4. Use Bluetooth for safer driving. Use the Bluetooth technology that is in your car or wear an earphone with Bluetooth while driving in the car so that you can keep both hands on the wheel. In the Netherlands it is illegal to hold a mobile phone in your hand and talk while you are driving. Bluetooth allows you to use your phone while you drive.
   • Certain phones and car stereos offer the ability to play music through the car stereo when connected to the phone via Bluetooth.
5. Synchronize data between your Bluetooth devices. Some devices can synchronize data such as contact lists, emails, and calendar events with each other. This can be a great way to sync phone contacts with your computer, or move data to another phone.
6. Use Bluetooth equipment in your home office. Bluetooth devices can significantly reduce cabling in your home and allow you to work more freely. With Bluetooth keyboards and mice, you can type anywhere without sacrificing accuracy. You can place a Bluetooth printer anywhere without having to worry about pulling a cable from the printer to your computer.
7. Use Bluetooth devices to customize your home theater. Bluetooth speakers and remote controls can make managing and interacting with media much easier. With a Bluetooth remote control, you don't have to point to the TV to use it. With Bluetooth speakers you can install a surround sound system without speaker cables lying everywhere in your living room. To set up a Bluetooth home theater system, you need a Bluetooth compatible receiver.
8. Use Bluetooth to secure your home or car. Bluetooth technology is available in wireless login systems that allow access to your home or car with the tap of a button on your smartphone. Never search for missing keys again! Ask your local electronics store for Bluetooth locking systems (deadbolt systems), or Bluetooth auto-lock mechanisms.
9. Connect a PlayStation controller to your computer. If your computer has Bluetooth, you can connect it to a PlayStation 3 or 4 controller so that you can use a gamepad with your PC games. This is not supported by Sony and requires the use of separate software, but is relatively easy to install.
10. Play multiplayer games. Bluetooth allows you to create a local network between two phones, which is a quick and easy way to set up a multiplayer gaming session. While this only works when you're in the same room, it's much more reliable than trying to play the game over the Internet.

Tips

• To help save money on messaging services through the mobile phone provider, text or chat with friends through Bluetooth chat applications that can be downloaded to your mobile phone. However, your friends will probably also need to download the application to take advantage of this service.