wireless networking - Programmable bluetooth device with large range

08
2014-07
  • JDS

    Apologies if this is not the appropriate forum to ask such a question.

    I am looking to create a "bluetooth router" so to speak that can communicate with a few devices. The requirements are programmability (so I can make my own software) and range of the system.

    Could one use a rasberry pi with an appropriate bluetooth module? What module would connect and give large (say over 25 meter) range?

    Thanks

    • Answers
  • Bacon Bits

    You would need to find transceivers with Class 1 Bluetooth radios. Class 3 is range 1 meter, class 2 is 10 meters, and class 1 is 100 meters. However, those use a lot of power (100 mW vs 2.5 mW for class 2 or 1 mW for class 1). Also, keep in mind that Bluetooth uses the 2.4 GHz spectrum, which is extremely busy so you're likely to have much lower range than you'd otherwise obtain.

    Personally, I think Bluetooth is the wrong technology. Bluetooth is really intended for devices in the same room, and 25 m is out of that scope.


    • Related Question

    wireless networking - What's the difference between Wifi and Bluetooth?
  • joe

    What is the difference between Wifi (802.11 "wireless") and Bluetooth?


    • Related Answers
  • pavsaund

    Wikipedia has good articles on both 802.11 WiFi technologies and Bluetooth technologies.

    Wikipedias quick summary of the differences:

    Bluetooth and Wi-Fi have many applications in today's offices, homes, and on the move: setting up networks, printing, or transferring presentations and files from PDAs to computers. Both are versions of unlicensed wireless technology. Wi-Fi is intended for resident equipment and its applications. The category of applications is outlined as WLAN, the wireless local area networks. Wi-Fi is intended as a replacement for cabling for general local area network access in work areas. Bluetooth is intended for non resident equipment and its applications. The category of applications is outlined as the wireless personal area network (WPAN). Bluetooth is a replacement for cabling in a variety of personally carried applications in any ambience.

    So basicly, 802.11 is an addition to the networking and connecting of computers & smartphones supporting high-bandwidth, and covers large areas.

    Bluetooth is a ad-hoc wireless technology which works at low distances, making it perfect for file tansfersing and remote-control hardware.

  • heavyd

    Wireless is a general term talking about any type of communication that involves communication without wires. Bluetooth is a specific wireless technology.

    Bluetooth is used for low bandwidth, short range wireless (usually only a few feet) communication typically between devices such as phones, computers, GPSs, etc.

    Examples of other wireless technologies include:

    • 802.11 (Wifi) - Used for traditional IP data, such as internet traffic, over short distances
    • WiMax - Broadband like IP data.
    • GSM - Used in cell phones
  • NighTerrorX

    Here is a simple write up on eHow
    http://www.ehow.com/facts_4761491_difference-between-bluetooth-wifi-technology.html

  • Simon P Stevens

    When most people talk about "wireless" they are probably talking about a particular wireless protocol called IEEE802.11 which is used for wireless networks. Bluetooth however is an alternative wireless protocol and is typically used for short range 1-1 communication and was originally designed as a wireless replacement for RS232 serial cables.