BLUETOOTH is a wireless protocol for exchanging data over short distances between fixed and mobile devices. The BLUETOOTH technology creates personal area networks (PANs) for wireless communication. It can connect several devices by resolving synchronization problems. The BLUETOOTH standard is:
  • Automatic
  • Inexpensive
  • Wireless
However, BLUETOOTH is not the only wireless technology available. Infrared (IR) and Wi-Fi technologies also play a vital role in the wireless communication.

BLUETOOTH compared to Infrared (IR)

Infrared technology uses the longer wavelengths in the red region of the electromagnetic spectrum that are beyond the range of human vision. The human eye cannot receive and interpret these wavelengths. Infrared technology is used by a television remote control. Although IR wireless communication is inexpensive and easy for manufacturers to incorporate into devices, this technology has a few drawbacks. The following table compares Infrared to BLUETOOTH.

SpecificationInfraredBLUETOOTH
Number of devices that can communicate simultaneouslyOnly two devices may communicate with each otherMultiple devices may communicate with each other within a specific operating distance
Line of sightTransmitters and receivers must be almost directly aligned (i.e., able to see each other)May operate without being in direct line-of-sight
Transmission impediments (people, walls, plants, etc.)may block the transmission of the signalmay slow the transmission of the signal
RangePerformance drops with distancePerformance better than IR with distance
SpeedData transmission rate fairly slowData transmission rate slightly lower than typical wired transmissions

NOTE: BLUETOOTH-Technology enabled devices resolve problems that are inherent with the Infrared technology.
Here are some examples:
  • BLUETOOTH has larger range of data transmission as compared to the IR.
  • BLUETOOTH is not prone to interference from light.
  • Unlike IR devices, BLUETOOTH devices do not have to be directly aligned or close to each other to function correctly.
    This allows BLUETOOTH-Technology enabled devices to function over a wider distance.
BLUETOOTH compared to Wi-Fi Standard:

The following table compares Wi-Fi with BLUETOOTH:

SpecificationWi-FiBLUETOOTH
Radio frequency2.45 or 5.0 GHz2.45 GHz
Signal StrengthStrong, covers greater distances, and provides higher throughputNot as effective as Wi-Fi
SetupConfiguration is complicatedConfiguration is less complicated
HardwareMore expensiveLess expensive
RangeApproximately 300 to 500 feet depending on Wi-Fi standard used.
Performance drops with longer distances.		Approximately 30 feet.
Performance better than IR.

NOTE: BLUETOOTH and Wi-Fi enabled devices operate on the same frequency range, but use different multiplexing schemes to avoid communication collisions.