Integrating Bluetooth Technology into Mobile Products

In the past we have seen technologies like PC-Card, PCI, USB, and IrDA introduced to enrichen the mobile computing environment. Bluetooth technology is the latest such initiative to add a connectivity feature to mobile systems Bluetooth technology is focused on replacing cables used to connect different mobile devices together. The technology is based on very small, low-cost, light-weight radios that easily form ad-hoc, secure links between various devices, to allow personal connectivity. With Bluetooth technology we see a combination of several strategies from the PC and cellphone industry that have been used to bring new system features to market. It is arguably the first time such a new technology has been integrated on the first-generation mobile PC products. To reduce the likelihood of incompatibility issues, significant effort is focused on interoperability testing of products from different vendors before they are launched. Traditionally, mobile PC manufacturers have focused on reducing RF emissions from their designs. With Bluetooth technology, many manufacturers are exposed to the challenge of integrating intentional emitters into their designs for the first time. Beyond the technical issues, this introduces some new regulatory processes. Bluetooth is a mobile technology. Users can travel with their products equipped with Bluetooth technology to any country in the world. The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) and Intel are working with regulatory bodies worldwide to explain the technology to them with the goal of establishing simple certification procedures and enabling users to travel freely thoughout the world with such devices. ∗ Bluetooth is a trademark owned by its proprietor and used by Intel under license. The airlines and the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) are taking a very cautious stand on allowing new classes of electronic devices to be used on aircraft. By engaging early with the FAA, its European equivalent, the Joint Aviation Authority (JAA), and the airline community, the Bluetooth SIG has made good progress on educating these bodies about Bluetooth technology so they can make reasoned decisions on whether to allow Bluetooth devices to be operated on aircraft.