Convergence in Bluetooth and 802.11 networks

Ad Hoc Networks using Bluetooth Technology and 802.11 technology have gained widespread popularity in the networking community. Whereas Bluetooth technology has certain obvious advantages like low power consumption and reliable connection, it has a low area of operation and lower bandwidth in the order of 721 kpbs. 802.11 technology on the other hand, has a wider area of operation and therefore very useful as Access points and higher bandwidth to the order of 11 Mbps in 802.11b. But 802.11 has a higher power consumption than Bluetooth. Due to popularity of devices fitted with both Bluetooth and 802.11 chips, we look into ways of collaboration and convergence between the two technologies. We propose an architecture for convergence of Bluetooth and 802.11 technologies and propose software switching protocols to facilitate the smooth handover of connection with minimal loss of data and without disconnection of service.