[techtalk] HARDWARE - Just What is Bluetooth?

Wed Jun 28 07:21:10 PDT 2023

Welcome to the latest issue of Tech-Talk!
Reminder: When accessing resources at the Tech-Talk website<https://www.tech-talk.com/login/oregon>, use ORLIBTECH
for both the username and password when prompted.

Tech-Talk is a paid subscription service for staff of Oregon libraries and is supported in whole by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) through the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA), administered by the State Library of Oregon.
This software connects devices together

[Tech-Talk 27 years]

[fireworks]<https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-0OGFZHzy1CZC9vKBFSlQb4Sv0G-sr5Bl17jqvOCsyWVQmwv-SiBd-t3AzVddxfgfG5etqPdx_fCc6LADi093DxHwqPtUkzbb3vLwHq6DcRID1ZxrPiw1HoejafdcWZc1BZxkBw3N2lirVKAnf_ZsiI0WP35TOfhaVOgAYEQR1YHHYgmkgOsvw==&c=oQch6hABV9ffUN3qKY3l0EnINCgMm2auZ0-7GDQdBsLGhlsAj8MG8g==&ch=a3SyE09Oij_jWibQf1N4XylbTpMbnleHfNOxCjM3uKfCqz8hb0zOIQ==>

Photo by Arthur Chauvineau<https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-0OGFZHzy1CZC9vKBFSlQb4Sv0G-sr5Bl17jqvOCsyWVQmwv-SiBd-t3AzVddxfgWvyds9ar2jSeClkD6dmIw_4Tn7MM97cmHYKX8uWbKc0XAEr-5CSaJF-OSxS-U6JDiOX2oLLFHZO3mh1vPw9jazQ57rNFLi9erAl287zSb5q9pNMSEKU7YnqBL4MiTQ0MKsQhJpHUXQbbspZUvcgXsnm5tJUmEEIatZhvdqRDYvMzhdqOb0UcLg9G849-DSdi31QUW1FAU88sy5lNbFME-A==&c=oQch6hABV9ffUN3qKY3l0EnINCgMm2auZ0-7GDQdBsLGhlsAj8MG8g==&ch=a3SyE09Oij_jWibQf1N4XylbTpMbnleHfNOxCjM3uKfCqz8hb0zOIQ==> on Unsplash<https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-0OGFZHzy1CZC9vKBFSlQb4Sv0G-sr5Bl17jqvOCsyWVQmwv-SiBd-t3AzVddxfg4cqpjYETiIoFNzDK_qAVFQkoN8MPQkyKTtc36lJPVSvpTfljjbU6J8eAGp8Fy9fGH20T7jqATqs3PF9SGkPZBtZY8LGGpC3MLowv9nHsZNhDSN8909bv1pENQGYu_yNz5Ce7AfvuGO8hW5QnbNY7JCjmX1MpTmZY4vhs_D1YvhKIEWp0PTWXjO7iJn_4csGZUreU1HgtKlFyhZ99Pk7C0oA7U7VooHfM&c=oQch6hABV9ffUN3qKY3l0EnINCgMm2auZ0-7GDQdBsLGhlsAj8MG8g==&ch=a3SyE09Oij_jWibQf1N4XylbTpMbnleHfNOxCjM3uKfCqz8hb0zOIQ==>

[https://files.constantcontact.com/ee1208b4001/e25f6bcf-26a8-4e59-91f2-cc248962042d.png]<https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-0OGFZHzy1CZC9vKBFSlQb4Sv0G-sr5Bl17jqvOCsyWVQmwv-SiBd3-OliCRK1528uZdyhw9uSyfiZ1XCRuzKlJPukS7SETLuUEDDIXvJYPciiKAkyvQSMfISpMCpMLFua1pRxHMUC-Mu06_FaxF3p7R7l10UfWn&c=oQch6hABV9ffUN3qKY3l0EnINCgMm2auZ0-7GDQdBsLGhlsAj8MG8g==&ch=a3SyE09Oij_jWibQf1N4XylbTpMbnleHfNOxCjM3uKfCqz8hb0zOIQ==>

Webinars for You

·    June 28: [EXCEL] Linking Data and Text Between Documents to Auto Update [3 pm ET for 1 hour]

·    July 12: [CANVA] Create Stunning Presentations with Canva and the MagicDesign Feature [3 pm ET for 1 hour]

·    July 26: [WEB TOOL] Create Digital Flipbooks to Engage, Teach, Promote Key Messages [3 pm ET for 1 hour]

·    Aug 9: [WEB TOOL] Exploring Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Everyday Life [3 pm ET for 1 hour]

View Webinars and Register Here<https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-0OGFZHzy1CZC9vKBFSlQb4Sv0G-sr5Bl17jqvOCsyWVQmwv-SiBd9YxNZFRMTjweWgG-lbWcBkoP0tLLmz8Gr1E2VAKRMgrxO22iJq8Yf21U1U1I5bwrvEHcBfDyqCp5IMsfu51f5oqoaaVJ9sfEsHDrQauowho&c=oQch6hABV9ffUN3qKY3l0EnINCgMm2auZ0-7GDQdBsLGhlsAj8MG8g==&ch=a3SyE09Oij_jWibQf1N4XylbTpMbnleHfNOxCjM3uKfCqz8hb0zOIQ==>

HARDWARE - Just What is Bluetooth?

Intermediate

[bluetooth]

Do you sometimes feel overwhelmed trying to keep up with all the new technologies? Some of the biggies include Wi-Fi, cellular data, and personal hotspots. We've written about these and you can find the articles in Tech-Talk.com.<https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-0OGFZHzy1CZC9vKBFSlQb4Sv0G-sr5Bl17jqvOCsyWVQmwv-SiBd9n5XZQiKOvZWINmlt1hHyKSdCWGDge_yZzZQ6RXUr9WEf9oNyzNbjyOqCpB5ldCLScoBybyQuiHY8-oKQ4R6-1FRPH1MiDUDg==&c=oQch6hABV9ffUN3qKY3l0EnINCgMm2auZ0-7GDQdBsLGhlsAj8MG8g==&ch=a3SyE09Oij_jWibQf1N4XylbTpMbnleHfNOxCjM3uKfCqz8hb0zOIQ==>

Today, we explain a bit about: Bluetooth ... a seemingly "invisible" software found in a variety of hardware devices.

I bet you'll be surprised about how much you already use this technology … and there's a funny story behind how it was named! (We surprise you with it at the end.)

[https://files.constantcontact.com/ee1208b4001/cfb6f268-4839-473b-9555-9ae2ee270b78.png]

To put it simply, Bluetooth is a wireless communication technology that devices (like smartphones, printers, or speakers) use to "talk" to each other over short distances.

Where we previously needed cords or cables with routers and switches to connect devices, Bluetooth creates a connection using radio waves. This makes it possible to control one device with another.

[Bluetooth]

Here's a bit of how the technology works.

Each device needs to give permission. This is done through LMP (Link Management Protocol). This creates encryption, so the transmission is private and secure. When Bluetooth connects two devices, it forms a PAN (Personal Area Network). As a result, it doesn't need an Internet connection to transfer files or control another device.

Now that you have a general understanding of this technology, on to the fun part! What can you actually do with Bluetooth to make your life easier (and cord-free)?

Exploring the Wonders of Bluetooth Technology

Bluetooth is used in a variety of ways using different platforms. Let's take a look at some common ways you can connect your devices together with this technology.

In Your Office

[wireless keyboard]
·    Wireless Printing - Connect your computer, tablet (or even mobile device) to a Bluetooth-enabled printer, eliminating the need for cables. It's really handy to be able to print something directly from your phone!

·    Computer Input Devices - Eliminate some clutter and make your desktop cord-free with a wireless mouse, keyboard, headset, and other input devices.

·    Data Transfer - You can pair your smartphone with a Bluetooth-enabled PC, laptop or smartphone to exchange files. For example, you can "AirDrop" images from one iPhone to another with Bluetooth (and Wi-Fi) enabled.

In Your Home & for Personal Use

[smart home]
·    Smart home devices - With Bluetooth, smart home devices (like Amazon Alexa or Google Nest) can control lighting, thermostats, locks, and doorbell/security systems.

·    Wireless game controllers - Play games on consoles or computers without the limitations of cables.

·    Listening to music – Connect your phone (or device) that has your playlist to wireless headphones or speakers.

·    Wearable Devices - Many fitness trackers that you wear on your wrist or chest, as well as smartwatches, and health monitors can have data synced with smartphones or computers for tracking information on your activity and health.

·    In your vehicle - Connect your mobile device to make and receive phone calls through your car's audio system. You can also use maps, listen to music or send text messages hands-free in your vehicle.

Is Bluetooth Safe?

With almost any type of technology, there can be safety concerns. It is possible for someone to "discover" your Bluetooth device and send you unsolicited messages or tap into your Bluetooth service.

To minimize risk, you can disable your Bluetooth when you're not using it. On a mobile device, this is as simple as toggling it OFF (usually through Settings).

How Do You Use Bluetooth?

First, be aware that Bluetooth has a maximum range of about 30 feet. So the devices connecting need to be in fairly close proximity.

How it works, of course, depends on the devices you pair together. Be sure to review the manufacturer's instructions to determine how to connect using Bluetooth technology (how to pair them).

For example, if you're connecting a smartphone to a different device, when you turn on Bluetooth (through Settings) on your phone, different options will appear.

[connect]

In the screenshot to the right, you'll see that I can connect (or have connected before) to these devices:

·    AiwaExos9 - A music speaker at my gym
·    iHome - A music speaker in my home
·    Mediabridge - A printer in my home (via the router)
·    Subaru BT - My vehicle's Bluetooth pairing

Ever Wonder Why it's Called Bluetooth?

Here's the story! A Dutch electrical engineer named Jaap Haartsen is credited as the inventor of Bluetooth in 1994. He named it after the 10th-century king of Denmark. Harald Gormsson was his name, but he was known as "Bluetooth" because of a dead tooth that looked blue. It was the inspiration for the name of the technology because the king was famous for uniting various Danish tribes into one kingdom ... connecting them!

[https://files.constantcontact.com/ee1208b4001/f8f1ecc8-4884-4c21-8ed0-cf647e6db944.png]

Communications: Grammar

Playing the Grammar Game

My stepmom went to college later in life and majored in English. She had three daughters. By the time I joined the family, they were already playing the grammar game.

The idea was to catch someone using a word that was grammatically incorrect ... especially Mom. It was simple. No score was kept. And it was always done with a twinkle ... just the intent to improve one's own use of the language.

Example:
·    One daughter says, "Him and her are a cute couple."
·    Another one jumps in with, "It's he and she are a cute couple."
·    The first daughter says, "Oh, that's right." (Or, they may have to discuss which one is right and why ... depending on the nature of the correction.)

It's all done in fun. Each individual silently chalks up a point on their side.

TIP: How to start a grammar game and not offend anyone!

1.  Find one or more individuals who want to improve their everyday grammar.
2.  Ask them if they want to play. (This is important!)
3.  Decide if there are "off-boundary" times, such as during a business meeting.
4.  Then, as conversations happen, and sloppy grammar appears, jump in with a correction.

Watch your use of excellent speaking habits improve! CAUTION: Don't jump in and correct others who are not part of the game. They'll tend to resent it.

[https://files.constantcontact.com/ee1208b4001/b13a7a6a-7445-4d8e-b741-4b475385ef5b.png]<https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-0OGFZHzy1CZC9vKBFSlQb4Sv0G-sr5Bl17jqvOCsyWVQmwv-SiBd-lSfx7hgZ6ygCf9K95X4rceJzyATrSD9yuI7P6bz2qZeK5XBRumnrv2PUKz5Tzbb-pHxTzCJCDCnbDIfyGtBgfba8kGAUc4rwQe4vr36SL2&c=oQch6hABV9ffUN3qKY3l0EnINCgMm2auZ0-7GDQdBsLGhlsAj8MG8g==&ch=a3SyE09Oij_jWibQf1N4XylbTpMbnleHfNOxCjM3uKfCqz8hb0zOIQ==>
[Ask a question]<https://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001-0OGFZHzy1CZC9vKBFSlQb4Sv0G-sr5Bl17jqvOCsyWVQmwv-SiBd8se4xbTjzTO4vWMRKpESOrR0GoDyDORFAV7CgvQVzvNbbXWJ2epg9NvgQnSLqUPETRbfHee_HRUHjlUmqEag-9dAFEuBg2aTNzsWzla8n26PAtk0mYq6bw=&c=oQch6hABV9ffUN3qKY3l0EnINCgMm2auZ0-7GDQdBsLGhlsAj8MG8g==&ch=a3SyE09Oij_jWibQf1N4XylbTpMbnleHfNOxCjM3uKfCqz8hb0zOIQ==>

Copyright 1996-2023 Shared Results International. Published weekly. Distribution is limited by license. For information on how to include additional recipients, contact support at tech-talk.com<mailto:support at tech-talk.com> 941-355-2092.

Cheers,
Darci Hanning, MLIS (she/her/hers)
Public Library Consultant / CE Coordinator
Continuing Education Resources: https://libguides.osl.state.or.us/conted
State Library of Oregon | Library Support and Development Services
971-375-3491 | darci.hanning at slo.oregon.gov<mailto:darci.hanning at slo.oregon.gov> | www.oregon.gov/library<http://www.oregon.gov/library>
Follow @StateLibraryOR: Facebook<http://fb.me/StateLibraryOR> | Twitter<https://twitter.com/StateLibraryOR> | Instagram<https://www.instagram.com/statelibraryor/> | Pinterest<https://pinterest.com/statelibraryor/> | YouTube<https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0-kU8Gu0jS_YcnXg-b_TRA/featured>

[cid:image001.png at 01D9A990.7F6C5090]

-------------- next part --------------
An HTML attachment was scrubbed...
URL: <https://omls.oregon.gov/pipermail/techtalk/attachments/20230628/e1e70b36/attachment.html>
-------------- next part --------------
A non-text attachment was scrubbed...
Name: image001.png
Type: image/png
Size: 15548 bytes
Desc: image001.png
URL: <https://omls.oregon.gov/pipermail/techtalk/attachments/20230628/e1e70b36/attachment.png>