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Bluetooth comes in different versions, profiles and classes, which affect the power of Bluetooth devices.

Bluetooth Versions

At this point, there are four versions of Bluetooth adapters, namely: 1.1, 1.2, 2.0, and 2.1. All four versions are compatible with each other, but there are some differences between these versions, which you will need to know in order to choose the best adapter.

The main difference between 1.1 and 1.2 is an improved work scheme, which reduces interference from other technologies, operating in the same range of 2.4 GHz. Version 1.2, which was released after version 1.1, has a better noise protection, which sometimes can also improve the speed of data transfer.

Both versions can operate at up to 723 Kbps transfer speed, in asymmetric channels. However, a file transfer requires a symmetrical channel, the speed of which will not be higher than 423 Kbps. The cost of these versions is practically the same. Thus, if you can choose between versions 1.1 and 1.2, it’s better to go with the latter version.

Version 2.0 has some important advantages, the main one being increased speed. For example, the speed of version 2.0 is 2100 Kbps in an asymmetric channel and 1430 Kbps in a symmetric channel. Bluetooth speed is especially important when transferring files. So, more than 3 times an increase in speed between the Bluetooth 1.x and 2.0, from 423 Kbps to 1430 Kbps, is very important.

Version 2.1 has energy-saving Sniff Subrating technology, which increases the operation time of the device after a single battery charge by 3-10 times. An updated specification also greatly simplifies and speeds up the connection between two Bluetooth devices, and makes the connections more secure through the use of the Near Field Communication technology.

Bluetooth Profiles

The zest of Bluetooth technology is not only in the rate of transmission, but in the so-called Bluetooth “profiles.”

Here are examples of a few Bluetooth profiles:

Serial Port Profile, used to emulate a COM-port via Bluetooth, for example, to synchronize mobile phones;

File Transfer Profile, used to transfer files directly between Bluetooth devices;

Handsfree Profile used to connect wireless headsets to mobile phones and computers.

Each profile was specifically designed for a specific application. There are many various Bluetooth profiles, and, when buying a Bluetooth device, it’s important to also pay attention to the list of the profiles, supported by the device. Only if both Bluetooth devices support the desired profile, you can use them together.

Bluetooth Classes

Bluetooth comes in three different classes: Class 1, Class 2 and Class 3. Classes differ by the range of their action, namely:

Class 1: up to 100 meters;

Class 2: up to 10 meters;

Class 3: up to 1 meter;

Thus, knowing the version, profile and class of the device, will help you choose the best Bluetooth device for your needs.

Mark Dunne is a writer providing advice on What Is Bluetooth Technology if you have time drop by his site for some tips and information.