How it works

Bluetooth devices work by using radio chips. When a Bluetooth device detects another one nearby it automatically links up to it, with no nasty configuration or horrible cables.

It's not really intended to replace powerful office networks. It sends data at around 1Mb per second which compares to the much faster range of 10Mbps and 54 Mbps that proper wireless networks have.

It's more intended for normal users like you and me, who need to plug machines together every so often but want it to be easier!

Is it secure?

Bluetooth uses the 2.45 GHz radio band which it shares with microwave ovens and cordless phones!

To be secure, Bluetooth devices constantly change the radio frequency they are using to help prevent eavesdropping.

Also, every Bluetooth device has an individual ID and before they can swap data, you have to enter a PIN number to authorise the connection.

This is to stop passers by hooking up to your machines! That said, once you have set up the connection your devices can remember them which can be a security risk.

Where they got the name

Bluetooth isn't one company, but a standard way of getting computers and other devices to talk together.

There are now thousands of companies using Bluetooth in their products but the first ones to get together were Erikkson, Intel, Nokia, Toshiba and IBM.

The name Bluetooth comes from 10th Century Danish Viking King, King Blatand (or Bluetooth in English).

He was the King who united the fighting tribes of Denmark and Norway and as the standard was created to 'unite' together lots of different devices they chose this name!