Bluetooth to the rescue

By now, most Americans know that Bluetooth is not a dental problem, but a peculiar name for a recent technology. Perhaps the simplest explanation for Bluetooth is that it uses radio wave signals instead of a wire to connect electronic components. And like different kinds of wired connections, it can perform different functions depending upon the devices that are connected. Over one billion Bluetooth-enabled products are expected to ship worldwide this year, according to the market research firm InStat in Scottsdale, Ariz.

One of the most common - and handiest - uses for the technology is in the automotive arena. A large number of new cars and trucks these days come equipped from the factory with Bluetooth either as standard or optional equipment. Most typically this allows a motorist to easily integrate his or her cell phone into a car's audio system in order to conduct conversations without holding the handset. This is ideal in states that require hands-free devices while driving and conducting a conversation.

Here, a microphone is located inside the car, most frequently on the rearview mirror, driver's visor or on or near the steering wheel. Of course, for it to work a cell phone also has to be "Bluetooth equipped." Bluetooth only works for a short distance, usually about 30 feet. This is to prevent too many devices from trying to talk to each other and maintains the concept of it replacing a wire.

Where the technology gets complicated is that different devices operate differently via a Bluetooth interface. Some have very limited functions and others have quite a few, and both a cell phone and a car's built-in interface must "match" in this regard to function properly. That's where problems often arise. With thousands of different Bluetooth-enabled devices and myriad makes and models of interface-equipped cars and trucks out there, it's impossible for every one of them to work perfectly with each other.

Thus, when purchasing a new phone, car or other device that boasts Bluetooth capabilities, it's prudent to find and examine its "compatibility list." Those owning a cell phone that is particularly old, new or is otherwise uncommon will be more likely to have connectivity problems.

When two Bluetooth-enabled devices (say, a cell phone and an automobile) are compatible, here is how it should work: The setup procedure is called "pairing." Because this is accomplished in so many different ways, users will need to consult their owner's manuals for specific instructions in this regard. Fortunately, once the setup is completed, the devices will "remember" each other. It may take 15 minutes or so to set up a car and wireless headset with a phone the first time, but the next time, they will recognize each other as soon as both devices are turned on.

With a phone, users also have to ensure Bluetooth is "enabled." The only problem with leaving it enabled all the time is that it does tend to draw down the battery more quickly. There are also potential security issues, but at least at this time, that seems to be rare.

Most devices can be paired to work with more than one other device, and up to as many as a dozen at a time. For example, family members can set up their phones to work in two different cars and with several wireless headsets. Each device, however, can be connected to only one other device at a time for a single purpose. This can be prioritized, however, so even if the whole brood piles into a vehicle, each of them armed with a cell phone, only one family member's unit (like the car's primary driver) will automatically connect. The others will continue operating normally from their respective handsets.

And automotive Bluetooth applications aren't necessarily limited to cell phone conversations. For example, so-called smartphones and other Bluetooth-enabled devices like laptop computers can now be used to send digital music or picture files, or even videos to a few cars' high-tech entertainment systems.

Like any new technology, Bluetooth's expansion is rapid and new features are added virtually every week. It's a great convenience, provided users can get it up and running and figure out how it works.