These are two terms you’ll hear thrown around a lot when referring to devices that connect wirelessly to your computer. Bluetooth vs infrared is not an easy decision for many people, as there are some advantages and disadvantages to both. So if you want to know which you should opt for, read on…
Bluetooth
The Basics
Bluetooth is a wireless protocol for transmitting data over short distances using radio waves. It is designed to replace the cables and wires currently used to link devices such as mobile phones, computers, and printers.
Bluetooth is a system that enables devices to connect with each other. In order for a device to be “Bluetooth enabled” it must support the Bluetooth protocol.
Originally designed to connect wireless headsets to mobile phones, Bluetooth has since been expanded to include a wide variety of types of devices
One of the advantages of Bluetooth is that it can be used to connect devices that are very close together or even up to 10 meters apart. It is also a very easy way to transfer data from one device to another!
Things That Use Bluetooth: cell phones, headsets, laptops, printers, speakers, remote controls, baby monitors, keyboards, mice, video game controllers, wireless internet, automotive, medical devices, wireless sensors, etc.
Advantages of Bluetooth
1.) Bluetooth uses a radio frequency so that connections can go through walls.
2.) Bluetooth is a low-energy radio so devices that use it can run for a very long time.
3.) Bluetooth is now a mature technology, so it can be integrated into a wide range of devices and systems.
4.) Bluetooth is a very flexible technology, so it can support many applications.
5.) Bluetooth is also very cheap, so it can provide a low-cost solution for many applications.
6.) Bluetooth can support many devices at once.
Disadvantages of Bluetooth
1.) Bluetooth has a very limited range.
2.) Bluetooth has limited bandwidth capabilities and is susceptible to interference.
3.) Bluetooth’s connections are not as secure as those of other technologies.
4.) Bluetooth uses a radio frequency, so devices must be close together for the signal to be received.
5.) Bluetooth does not work well in the presence of other radio signals.
6.) Bluetooth is based on short-range connections, so it does not work well when devices are too far apart.
Infrared
The Basics
Infrared is a type of wireless network that uses a beam of infrared light to transfer data between devices. The light is invisible to the human eye, but it can be detected by devices such as TV remote controls.
One of the advantages of infrared is that you can transfer data over a distance of up to 10 meters (33 feet) without the need for a direct line of sight. This means that you can place devices anywhere around a room and still be able to transfer data between them. However, you cannot place a very large object, such as a wall, between them.
It is a very simple way to transfer data between devices that are close together, though the transfer rate is fairly slow. The data transmission is much faster when you are close to the device receiving the data.
Another interesting feature of infrared is that the signal does not interfere with other devices, and no special skills are required to use it. It can be used with almost any device, including mobile devices, smart TVs, or computers.
Things That Use Infrared: Stereo system remote controls, laserdiscs, digital cameras, video games, garage door openers, home alarms,
Advantages of Infrared Technology
1.) Simplicity: One of the advantages of infrared communication is how simple it really is. This makes infrared a great and easy technology.
2.) Security: Because of the nature of infrared technology, there is a sense of security associated with the systems. This is because infrared technology uses light as its carrier and this light is everywhere.
3.) Less Interference: Since infrared communication does not use any other medium like radio frequency, television, microwaves, or cell phone frequencies, there is no likelihood of any kind of interference.
Disadvantages of Infrared Technology
1.) Susceptible to Noise: The main disadvantage of infrared technology is that it is very susceptible to noise. Any light source at the receiving end can interfere with infrared communication.
2.) Limited Bandwidth: The bandwidth of infrared technology is limited. For effective communication, infrared technology requires a higher bandwidth.
3.) Short Transmission Range: Infrared technology has a short transmission range. This is because infrared communication is a line of sight and the infrared cannot pass through most of the objects.
FAQs
Bluetooth:
Q: Is Bluetooth still popular?
A: Yes, Bluetooth is used widely to this day! People use Bluetooth for their wireless speakers, car stereos, and many other devices!
Q: Are Bluetooth devices expensive?
A: No! Bluetooth devices can be very affordable. There are budget Bluetooth speakers that can be found for as low as $15!
Q: Can you pair multiple Bluetooth devices with one device?
A: Yes! You can pair up to eight devices with one Bluetooth device!
Q: Is it possible to send files from one Bluetooth device to another?
A: Oh yeah! It’s even possible to send files from a Bluetooth device to a non-Bluetooth device!
Q: Can you connect Bluetooth devices to a non-Bluetooth device?
A: Yes! All you need is a Bluetooth-to-USB dongle, and you can connect any Bluetooth device to any non-Bluetooth device!
Q: Do Bluetooth devices have a range limit?
A: Yes! Bluetooth devices have a range limit of up to 30ft!
Infrared:
Q: Is Infrared technology popular?
A: Not as much as it used to be. Infrared technology was used for T.V remotes, laserdiscs, and more.
Q: Is Infrared technology expensive?
A: Not anymore. Infrared technology has become more affordable for the average consumer.
Q: What does Infrared technology use?
A: Infrared technology uses light.
Q: When did Infrared technology become popular?
A: Infrared technology became popular in the 1960s.
Q: How does Infrared technology work?
A: Infrared technology works by sending out a beam of light and when that beam of light hits an object the beam of light is reflected back and is picked up by a receiver.
Q: What is the Technology Behind Infrared Technology?
A: Infrared technology uses invisible infrared light waves. The infrared is received by an infrared receiver and converted into sound or picture.
Q: How do Infrared remotes work?
A: Infrared remotes work by sending infrared signals that are detected by a sensor that is on the TV.
Q: What is the benefit of infrared technology?
A: It works well in bright light!