The CompTIA A+ objectives want you to know how to configure Bluetooth connectivity.
Bluetooth provides a short range personal area network (PAN). There are different classes of Bluetooth devices. Class 3 devices have a range of up to 1 meter. Class 2 Bluetooth devices have a range of up to 10 meters. Class 1 devices have a range of up to 100 m. Class 2 devices are the most common. Bluetooth is most commonly used to allow different accessories (such as a headphone, keyboard, mouse, speakers, etc.) to connect with our mobile devices.
Bluetooth connections don’t require an access point. Instead two devices can pair to each other. To initiate a Bluetooth connection you must first pair the mobile device and accessory together. Once paired you can then connect and disconnect automatically. For example, if you pair your mobile phone to your car, the phone and car will automatically disconnect when you leave the car, and will automatically repair once you return to the car. With Bluetooth, multiple devices can communicate over a single interface.
Most mobile devices will allow you to disable Bluetooth connectivity if desired.
The Bluetooth Pairing Process is as follows:
1. Enable Bluetooth
Bluetooth must be enabled on both devices that you want to pair. You can generally enable Bluetooth fro the Settings menu of your mobile device.
2. Enable pairing
Put the devices into “discoverable mode” so that the Bluetooth devices can see each other. This might require you to push a button or a sequence of keys to enter into discoverable mode. Discoverable mode may be indicated with flashing LEDs on a Bluetooth device.
3. Find a device for pairing
Your device should now show a list of discovered Bluetooth devices nearby. Choose the device you want to connect to.
4. Enter the appropriate pin code
Next, a PIN code show appear on your screen. If you’re pairing a keyboard, type the PIN on your Bluetooth keyboard. Otherwise, the PIN should appear on both devices and you’ll need to confirm that the same PIN appears on both devices.
5. Test connectivity
Your two devices should now be paired. Test connectivity by typing on the Bluetooth keyboard, listening to audio on your Bluetooth headphones, etc.
