How to easily connect a Bluetooth adapter to a computer? Detailed instructions for selection and use (2018). How to choose a Bluetooth adapter for your computer
At the heart of any progress is the idea of refining and improving existing technologies, which means that their predecessors in some sense become irrelevant. But if you are faced with the question of how to choose a Bluetooth adapter for your computer, it is better to understand the essence of all the options presented.
About technology
There are quite a decent number of versions of this specification, but those that were turning points are currently only 5: 1.2, 2.0 + EDR, 3.0 + HS, 4.0 and 4.1. All the details will not be presented here, but if anyone is interested, they can easily find all the differences and features that were added in each version. But it makes sense to outline some things, namely transmission speed, signal strength, stacks and profiles, so that you can make an informed conclusion about which Bluetooth adapter to choose for your PC.
The transmission speeds for the five versions of the specification mentioned above are respectively: 1, 2.1(3), 3 (24), 24 and 24 Mbit/s. But this is only theoretical; in practice, the speed is much lower.
Based on power, the technology can be divided into 3 parts: 100, 2.5 and 1 MW. This directly affects the range of the devices and gives them indicators of 100, 10 and 1 meter, respectively. However, on the market you can only find devices of one standard of 2.5 MW and 10 meters, since samples with minimum indicators are no longer produced en masse, and the maximum data corresponds only to gadgets that were added to Wi-Fi cards with PCI- connectors and in a separate form simply do not exist.
It is also worth noting that the basis of all Bluetooth technology is a wireless analogue of the RS-232 cable, onto which various protocols for the execution, transmission and management of information and available resources, called stacks, are “hung”. These stacks are mandatory, without which the entire multi-level architecture simply will not work, and optional, which allows you to apply improvements to existing functions, as well as add new ones.
The main stacks include 5 units:
There is also such a thing as “Profiles”, which are directly related to which is the best Bluetooth adapter for a PC to choose. There are many of them, but there is no point in considering them all, since most of them have specific functions. But we will still consider some situations, as this will help make the right choice.
Adapter selection
So, which USB Bluetooth adapter to choose depends directly on the purpose for which it will be used. In turn, the functionality of a particular module is determined by the previously mentioned profiles, which manage the stacks to obtain some specific parameters.
For example, consider a situation in which a client wants to access the Internet via a Bluetooth module. In this case, he will need a model that supports Dial-up Networking Profile (DUN) or LAN Access Profile (LAP). If he tries to distribute the network via a Bluetooth module from an ordinary wireless mouse, then he will not succeed, since the Human Interface Device (HID) profile is used in the manipulator. And the same will happen with the transmission of audio or video signals, where Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP) will be needed.
Another example determines the desire of the device owner to control the PC using a mobile phone or TV remote control. If the Bluetooth module does not support Audio / Video Remote Control Profile (AVRCP), but is designed to work only with Hands-Free Profile (HFP) or Headset Profile (HSP), then you will not be able to make the sound louder, but you can connect a headset or mobile phone for calls - in no time.
In general, the point is this: before you search desired device, you will need to determine its functional purpose and only then begin to select the appropriate equipment. Since there are devices of different sizes, purposes, powers, data transfer rates, and even options combined with a Wi-Fi module, which have antennas and without them. By the way, the latter differ from each other in signal strength and operating range.
If someone is interested in how much a Bluetooth adapter costs, then the answer directly depends on functionality, as well as supported profiles and stacks specific model, version, power, purpose and form factor. But, in general, the price varies from a dollar to a hundred, or even more, since we should not forget about such nuances as the quality of assembly, parts and materials used.
How to find out if your computer has Bluetooth: Video
Probably everyone is familiar with this situation - you listen to music, work or just relax at your PC. Here, slightly forgetting that you are wearing headphones, you get up, and as a result, the keyboard, mouse, mug of tea fall off the table, and the cord is pulled out or simply broken. After this, you’ll think about purchasing a Bluetooth adapter for your computer, so you can buy it later and connect it wireless headphones.
A USB or PCI Bluetooth adapter allows you to transfer information from one device to another at a speed of 3-10 Mbit per second. Often in the hustle and bustle of everyday life, you need to connect your phone, smartphone or tablet to your computer in order to upload photos, videos or other files. As a rule, not everyone has a cord to connect a device, and the wires often get lost or fail, breaking at the wrong moment.
How does this work
If earlier it was easy to find support for Bluetooth technology in laptops, then over the last 5 years “blue tooth” has been extremely rare. More often than not, wireless technology is present and standard in mobile phones.
USB Bluetooth adapter for a computer or laptop looks like a small flash drive, which is connected by connecting to a USB port. Some developers and companies install antennas on models that increase the coverage area.
Yes, now you can transfer information packets from one room to another, or wear wireless headphones to the toilet, kitchen or balcony. It’s really not worth washing in them if there is no waterproof technology, and there are no such headphones yet, but perhaps they will appear soon.
True, the board itself is installed inside the computer. The plastic chip has a standard appearance with a PCI connector for connecting to motherboard. This is even more convenient, since it frees up the USB port. Users also often connect an external adapter to the front panel, where it sticks out like a flagpole. And then they knock it out with their foot or hip, breaking the port, which, you must agree, is not very pleasant.
This technology will not only allow you to connect wireless devices such as headphones or a printer, but also quickly exchange information between PCs, laptops, and phones.
Pros
- Quickly download photos, videos, documents from your phone to your PC.
- Huge selection of devices, power and price.
- Installation on any modern computer.
- Possibility of connecting wireless devices: mice, keyboards, joysticks, headphones, printers, MFPs.
- Walk around the apartment wearing headphones with a microphone and talking on Skype.
- Connecting old phones if the cable is lost.
- Connecting phones, tablets.
- Transfer data between two computers or laptops.
Cons
- Not available on all laptops, and especially not on PCs.
- Short data transmission distance. Although this can be solved by purchasing a more powerful Bluetooth device.
- The speed is slightly lower than that of the WI-FI network.
Classes and types
The metering is painted approximately and under ideal conditions. The signal propagation rate decreases depending on the thickness of the walls, material, and also on the aura system administrators, who works nearby in the server room.
Typically, the signal level is amplified by an antenna, which can be additionally installed to the device. Therefore, before purchasing, you need to have a rough idea of what the adapter is needed for and how far you will run from the working base.
They are divided by type:
- External;
- Internal;
- Modular - for example, a headphone set that immediately has everything you need.
How to find a Bluetooth receiver on your computer
If you have a laptop, then you can check if you have this module. To do this, find the Bluetooth icon on the keyboard, it is usually located on the F3 key.
To turn it on, press the combination Fn + F3.
In regular desktop PCs this module It is installed extremely rarely and is present in rare assemblies. To check this you just need to go to the device manager:
- Right-click on “Computer”, which is located on the desktop.
- Choose "Property".
- Next, click "Device Manager".
- In the section network adapters or a separate section, there should be the name Bluetooth. Sometimes this module is present, but the driver is not installed. It will be located in the section "Other devices."
If it is not there, then you need to start making a choice.
How to choose
First of all, you need to focus on several indicators:
- Protocols that the modem uses;
- Range of action;
- External or internal structure. That is, a flash drive or PCI card.
- Price - it usually depends on the name of the manufacturer, the presence of shielding, and range coverage.
Protocols
These are the rules of the Bluetooth data transmission system. They are constantly updated and improved. This way we can understand which device we have in front of us - new or more old model.
The higher the protocol, the newer the model. They have more reliable data transmission and automatic connection in case of disconnection. Also, information packets are transmitted in such a way as to increase speed and reduce power consumption. More modern devices share the stream and allow you to connect more than 2 devices simultaneously without a significant loss of speed.
| Bluetooth protocol | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | It was invented in 1998. Had low speed and problems and disconnects. |
| 1.1 | Bugs have been fixed and RSSI transmission technology has been added. |
| 1.2 | Adaptation of data transmission frequencies, which made it possible to be more resistant to interference. Faster connection. Speed increased. UART support. |
| 2.0+EDR | Released in 2004 on November 10th. The speed increased to 3 Mbit per second. Ability to connect multiple devices. |
| 2.1 | Reduced power consumption. The technology was released in 2007. |
| 2.1+EDR | Reducing power consumption by 4 times, also increasing the reliability of data transmission. |
| 3.0+HS | On April 21, 2009, a new protocol was released. The speed increased to 24 Mbit per second. Ability to transfer files using different 802.11b/g or 802.11n standards. Larger files were transferred according to one standard, and smaller ones according to another. |
| 4 | Work with different platforms. The distance increased to 100 meters. Data transmission error monitoring. Speed - 8 - 27 Mbit per second. |
| 4.1 | Improved performance with mobile communications LTE. As a result, the number of transmission errors is reduced. |
| 4.2 | The speed has increased. All data is encrypted and is more secure when working in office buildings. |
| 5 | Published June 16, 2016. The radius has increased by 4 times, and the speed by 2. |
Profiles
Profiles allow you to connect certain devices and transfer a certain type of data.
- Headset (HSP) – Sound transmission in MONO mode;
- A2DP – stereo sound;
- Dial-up – Internet connection;
- LAN Access Profile – Internet distribution.
Some protocols have already fallen out of widespread use, and adapters that work on them can only be found in museums or among bearded programmers. Newer models starting from 3.0 can be found on sale. They are reliable and suitable for home use.
If we talk about large enterprises, then you need to look at version 5.0. It has the widest coverage, but the price for such models is much higher than for copies for mortals. If we talk about the range, then the price is also rising. For home use, you can take a regular flash drive without an antenna.
If you want to connect two or more devices or computers within a range of up to 20 meters, then it is better to buy a more expensive model for 2000 - 3000 with a protocol of 4.0 and higher. Information will be transmitted accurately, without loss and at a higher speed.
For PCs, we recommend purchasing a built-in PCI Bluetooth card with built-in WI-FI. It will also allow you to catch the network from the router. If we talk about a laptop, then it is better to take a more expensive model in order to reduce power consumption, which already comes from working with the power off.
The most important advice is to take your time. Read the reviews carefully, where you can often find interesting nuances that are not mentioned in the review. Also think about what exactly Bluetooth is needed for. To connect a phone, you can take a cheap model; for a headset or wireless headphones, you need to take into account the protocols and profiles that you will use.
The cheapest adapter Buro BU-BT40A
Very compact and with a range of 20 meters. Perfect for home use. A small disadvantage will be the low data transfer speed.
The most popular ASUS USB-BT400
Has a more reliable packet transmission system. Well suited for connecting all wireless devices from phones to headphones.
Intel 7260HMW.AC
Connects internally to the PCE board. It can easily receive both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi signals. Quite a good model for its price.
Intel Dual Band Wireless-AC 7260 + Bluetooth Adapter
Operates in the range from 2.4 to 5 GHz. A more stable version allows you to separate data streams and work calmly with both the Wi-Fi network and Bluetooth.
How to connect the device?
- We connect the module to the PC in any USB connector. If you purchased a PCI module, you will have to remove side cover your system unit, and then install the board in a free PCI slot.
- Windows should automatically detect the device and download the driver. After this, you will see the corresponding icon in the right panel.
- If this does not happen, then you need to visit the official website of the company that released the device and download the software from there. But I’ll tell you from experience that all adapters are installed automatically and without problems.
Request
Dear readers, write your reviews in the comments after using the purchased adapters. This is very important information for new readers. Also, feel free to write your questions, and I will answer them immediately. What difficulties have you encountered? You can also write what exactly you need Bluetooth for, and in what price range you want, and I will help you choose the best option.
The need to install a Bluetooth adapter for a computer arises when you need to quickly move information between different devices.
For example, between a desktop PC and .
Content:Operating principle and configuration of the Bluetooth adapter for PC
The appearance of most adapters designed for connecting to a computer or laptop (which also rarely support Bluetooth) resembles a small one.
Some are even smaller.
And to strengthen the signal on these devices, a small antenna can be installed, adding 2-5 dBi.
Built-in Bluetooth adapters are boards that connect inside a PC (usually to a PCI connector) and sometimes provide a wireless connection using technology.
Installation and configuration of most adapters occurs automatically when connected. Some require manual settings.
Manual installation drivers for an adapter that is not detected automatically
BlueTooth technology is based on radio communication and allows you to connect two devices to each other almost unnoticed by the user.
The advantages of using an adapter are:
The disadvantages of the device include its relatively low speed compared to a wireless Wi-Fi connection.
In addition, most models transmit data over a short distance.
Although, when purchasing an adapter with an amplifier, you can increase the distance to several tens of meters - a result that is impressive even for.
Device classification
Bluetooth adapters are primarily classified by range:
- old models, class 4, are capable of connecting two devices, the distance between which does not exceed 2–5 meters;
- Class 3 devices provide connections at a distance of 5 to 10 m;
Rice. 3. Standard Class 2 Bluetooth modules with a range of up to 10m.
- Class 2 adapters allow you to connect if the distance between the computer and another gadget does not exceed 50 m;
- the first class, which is equipped with printers, modems and base stations, makes it possible to transfer data within a radius of 100 m from the adapter.
The use of antennas that amplify the signal increases the distance. At the same time, devices of the same class provide connections differently in different conditions.
Since both the range and stability of the connection depend not only on the characteristics of the adapter, but also on the configuration of the premises and on the material of the enclosing structures.
Bluetooth adapter capabilities
You can use Bluetooth USB adapters in the following situations:
- to transmit information from mobile device to a computer or vice versa. This opportunity is especially useful if there are no devices to connect and if it is impossible to use Wi-Fi for this (a technology that is not supported on older phones);
- for wireless connection of two computers within the range of the Bluetooth adapter;
- for connecting to a computer, digital camera, and other devices.
In most cases, using Bluetooth technology instead of Wi-Fi or cable increases the distance over which connected devices can be located.
For example, you can connect two computers in this way, even if they are in adjacent rooms or even apartments.
And if you need to transfer data from an older model mobile phone (with a special cord format for connection, like models or Sony Ericsson) this method may be the only available option.
The only alternative is to buy a special cord, the cost is higher than that of an adapter.
Cable for connecting Sony Ericsson phones to PC
Features of adapter selection
Before choosing a Bluetooth adapter for your computer, you should make sure that it is not included in the device package.
Technology support in desktop computers wireless communication usually not provided. And to check availability you can:
- check the presence of the corresponding symbol on the keyboard;
Keys to enable the Bluetooth module on a laptop
- Open device manager and check for the presence of the module. This option is also suitable for a stationary personal computer, although usually their owners already know about the installed boards and adapters.
After confirming the need to purchase a device, they proceed to its selection, focusing on three main parameters.
The first is the protocol supported by the adapter. The second is the range of the device.
And finally, the third is the price, which is determined by the class, the manufacturer, and protection from external influences.
Selecting a device protocol
The presence of several generations of Bluetooth adapters on sale complicates the choice suitable model.
Moreover, based on the information on the pages of online stores, it is difficult to navigate which device can be considered new and which is already outdated.
One of the outdated adapter models that can still be found on sale
It is worth noting that the data transfer speed, connection stability, and price depend on the adapter protocol.
Latest versions, 4.1 and higher, not only allow you to connect any devices without connection problems, but also ensure stable data transfer without interruptions or failures, and even consume less energy.
In addition, when you leave the adapter's coverage area and return to it, the connection is restored automatically.
And modern devices can support the connection of several gadgets at the same time.
Range selection
When choosing an adapter, one of the main factors is its range.
Taking into account the fact that the increase in range is proportional to the increase in the price of the device, it is not necessary to buy a first-class model, the cost of which is noticeably higher. Especially when it comes to home use, where the distance between devices rarely exceeds 10 meters.
For home and small offices, adapters of class 2 or 3 are suitable, as a rule, they do not have an antenna, and are in the price range of up to 200–300 rubles.
For large premises, it is advisable to choose 1st class models that support protocol 4.0 and 4.1 - in addition to a range of more than 50 meters, they will also provide a speed of at least 3 Mbit/s.
Their cost can reach 1000 rubles.
Modifications of adapters with built-in antennas are even more expensive. Most often, they provide two types of wireless communication at the same time - both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
Their cost can exceed 2000 rubles, but the functionality is much higher.
With the help of such equipment, information will be guaranteed to be transferred to any device - a laptop, a smartphone, or another computer with a built-in adapter and supporting wireless communication technology.
Bluetooth adapters with signal amplifying antenna
Other selection features
In addition to the range and protocol of the BlueTooth adapter, when choosing, pay attention to such characteristics as:
- computer connection type;
- equipment manufacturer;
- functionality;
- strength;
- price.
The price range is important for those users for whom information transfer speed and range do not matter.
To connect devices located in the same room, any device is sufficient, even with protocol 1.2 or 2.0.
When constantly transferring large files and a distance exceeding 10–15 meters, it is advisable not to save money, but to purchase an adapter that supports Bluetooth 4.0 or 4.1 transmission technology.
Durability matters if the device is constantly being carried and installed on different computers or laptops.
For the same situations, you need to purchase a gadget that connects to a USB port.
If the device is intended for use on only one computer, you can choose a model in the form of a built-in board. Moreover, such adapters can also provide .
Popular manufacturers of Bluetooth adapters are 3Com, 4World, Tracer, Broadcom, Atheros and GSM-Support. And among the brands whose assortment is represented by budget models, it is worth noting the Trust and StLab brands.
The compatibility of adapters may also depend on the manufacturer - for example, devices from 3Com are equipped with their own drivers, which are not always detected automatically. Although most models from other companies do not even require configuration.
If necessary, provide both types wireless connection It is worth paying attention to the Intel 7265NGW.AC, Intel 7260HMW.AN and ASUS PCE-AC55BT models, which support data transfer at speeds of up to 867 Mbit/s for Wi-Fi and up to 3 Mbit/s for Bluetooth. Devices are connected to M2 and PCI-E ports.
Conclusions
The use of Bluetooth adapters allows you to practically do without wired connection of devices to each other to transfer information.
This not only improves the convenience of file sharing, but also eliminates the need to purchase data cables with different connectors for each individual gadget.
At the same time, purchasing an adapter does not require large expenses or significant time spent on setting them up.
Automatic detection The device does not require any user action at all. And even with manual update this is unlikely to take more than 10 minutes.
Video:
The need to install a Bluetooth adapter for a computer arises when you need to quickly move information between different devices. For example, between a desktop PC and a mobile phone.
Bluetooth technology provides fairly high data transfer speeds and, unlike Wi-Fi, does not require the use of additional software and server settings. To connect several devices, just buy a special adapter, connect it to your computer and configure it.
Operating principle and configuration of the Bluetooth adapter for PC
The appearance of most adapters designed to connect to a computer or laptop (which also rarely support Bluetooth) resembles a small USB flash drive. Some are even smaller.
And to strengthen the signal on these devices, a small antenna can be installed, adding 2-5 dBi. Built-in Bluetooth adapters are cards that connect inside a PC (usually to a PCI connector) and sometimes provide a wireless connection using Wi-Fi technology.
Rice. 1. Bluetooth adapter options.
Installation and configuration of most adapters occurs automatically when connected. Some require manual configuration. Moreover, to enable them, you even need to go to the device manager menu, find the corresponding element, find out its ID and download the appropriate driver from the network.
Rice. 2. Manual installation of drivers for an adapter that is not detected automatically.
BlueTooth technology is based on radio communication and allows you to connect two devices to each other almost unnoticed by the user. The advantages of using an adapter are:
- direct connection even if there are obstacles between devices;
- the ability to install on any PC or laptop with a USB 2.0 port and more modern versions of the connector;
- wide range of devices according to affordable price;
- presence by default on most tablets and almost every smartphone.
The disadvantages of the device include its relatively low speed compared to a wireless Wi-Fi connection. In addition, most models transmit data over a short distance. Although, when purchasing an adapter with an amplifier, you can increase the distance to several tens of meters - a result that is impressive even for a Wi-Fi adapter.
Device classification
Bluetooth adapters are primarily classified by range:
- old models, class 4, are capable of connecting two devices, the distance between which does not exceed 2–5 meters;
- Class 3 devices provide connections at a distance of 5 to 10 m;
Rice. 3. Standard Class 2 Bluetooth modules with a range of up to 10m.
- Class 2 adapters allow you to connect if the distance between the computer and another gadget does not exceed 50 m;
- the first class, which is equipped with printers, modems and base stations, makes it possible to transfer data within a radius of 100 m from the adapter.
The use of antennas that amplify the signal increases the distance. At the same time, devices of the same class provide connections differently in different conditions. Since both the range and stability of the connection depend not only on the characteristics of the adapter, but also on the configuration of the premises and on the material of the enclosing structures.
Bluetooth adapter capabilities
You can use Bluetooth USB adapters in the following situations:
- to transfer information from a mobile device to a computer or vice versa. This feature is especially useful if there is no data cable to connect devices and if it is impossible to use Wi-Fi for this (a technology that is not supported on older phones);
- for wireless connection of two computers within the range of the Bluetooth adapter;
- for connecting a printer, digital camera, headphones and other devices to a computer.
In most cases, using Bluetooth technology instead of Wi-Fi or cable increases the distance over which connected devices can be located. For example, you can connect two computers in this way, even if they are in adjacent rooms or even apartments.
And if you need to transfer data from an older model mobile phone (with a special cord format for connection, like Samsung models or Sony Ericsson) this method may be the only available option. The only alternative is to buy a special cord, the cost is higher than that of an adapter.
Rice. 4. Cable for connecting Sony Ericsson phones to a PC.
Features of adapter selection
Before choosing a Bluetooth adapter for your computer, you should make sure that it is not included in the device package. Desktop computers usually do not support wireless technology. And to check the presence of Bluetooth on a laptop, you can:
- check the presence of the corresponding symbol on the keyboard;
Rice. 5. Keys that allow you to enable the Bluetooth module on your laptop.
- Open device manager and check for the presence of the module. This option is also suitable for a stationary personal computer, although usually their owners already know about the installed boards and adapters.
After confirming the need to purchase a device, they proceed to its selection, focusing on three main parameters. The first is the protocol supported by the adapter. The second is the range of the device. And finally, the third is the price, which is determined by the class, the manufacturer, and protection from external influences.
Selecting a device protocol
The presence of several generations of Bluetooth adapters on sale makes it difficult to choose the right model. Moreover, based on the information on the pages of online stores, it is difficult to navigate which device can be considered new and which is already outdated.
Rice. 6. One of the outdated adapter models that can still be found on sale.
It is worth noting that the data transfer speed, connection stability, and price depend on the adapter protocol. The latest versions, 4.1 and higher, not only allow you to connect any devices without connection problems, but also ensure stable data transfer without interruptions or failures, and even consume less energy.
In addition, when you leave the adapter's coverage area and return to it, the connection is restored automatically. And modern devices can support the connection of several gadgets at the same time.
Range selection
When choosing an adapter, one of the main factors is its range. Taking into account the fact that the increase in range is proportional to the increase in the price of the device, it is not necessary to buy a first-class model, the cost of which is noticeably higher. Especially when it comes to home use, where the distance between devices rarely exceeds 10 meters.
For home and small offices, adapters of class 2 or 3 are suitable, as a rule, they do not have an antenna, and are in the price range of up to 200–300 rubles. For large premises, it is advisable to choose 1st class models that support protocol 4.0 and 4.1 - in addition to a range of more than 50 meters, they will also provide a speed of at least 3 Mbit/s. Their cost can reach 1000 rubles.
Modifications of adapters with built-in antennas are even more expensive. Most often, they provide two types of wireless communication at the same time - both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Their cost can exceed 2000 rubles, but the functionality is much higher. With the help of such equipment, information will be guaranteed to be transferred to any device - a laptop, a smartphone, or another computer with a built-in adapter and supporting wireless communication technology.
Rice. 7. Bluetooth adapters with a signal-amplifying antenna.
Other selection features
In addition to the range and protocol of the BlueTooth adapter, when choosing, pay attention to such characteristics as:
- computer connection type;
- equipment manufacturer;
- functionality;
- strength;
- price.
The price range is important for those users for whom information transfer speed and range do not matter. To connect devices located in the same room, any device is sufficient, even with protocol 1.2 or 2.0. When constantly transferring large files and a distance exceeding 10–15 meters, it is advisable not to save money, but to purchase an adapter that supports Bluetooth 4.0 or 4.1 transmission technology.
Durability matters if the device is constantly transferred and installed on different computers or laptops. For the same situations, you need to purchase a gadget that connects to a USB port. If the device is intended for use on only one computer, you can choose a model in the form of a built-in board. Moreover, such adapters can also provide Wi-Fi.
Popular manufacturers of Bluetooth adapters are 3Com, Intel, 4World, Tracer, Broadcom, Atheros and GSM-Support. And among the brands whose assortment is represented by budget models, it is worth noting the Trust and StLab brands.
The compatibility of adapters may also depend on the manufacturer - for example, devices from 3Com are equipped with their own drivers, which are not always detected automatically. Although most models from other companies do not even require configuration.
Popular models
Today you can find the following Bluetooth adapters in online stores:
- Among the budget options, characterized by minimal prices, but also low data transfer speeds (protocol 2.0): Tekram TM-303, STLab B-122 and CLiPtec ZB626;
- in the mid-price range and with support for protocols 4.0 and 4.1: Grand-X BT40G, IOGEAR GBU521 and STLab B-421;
Rice. 8. Adapter model Grand-X BT40G costs about 600 rubles.
- Among the relatively inexpensive models that provide both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, and connect via a USB 2.0 port: Edimax EW-7611ULB (Wi-Fi up to 150 Mbit/s, Bluetooth - 3 Mbit/s).
If you need to provide both types of wireless connections, you should pay attention to the Intel 7265NGW.AC, Intel 7260HMW.AN and ASUS PCE-AC55BT models, which support data transfer at speeds of up to 867 Mbit/s for Wi-Fi and up to 3 Mbit/s for Bluetooth. Devices are connected to M2 and PCI-E ports.
Conclusions
The use of Bluetooth adapters allows you to practically do without wired connection of devices to each other to transfer information. This not only improves the convenience of file sharing, but also eliminates the need to purchase data cables with different connectors for each individual gadget.
At the same time, purchasing an adapter does not require large expenses or significant time spent on setting them up. Automatic device detection does not require any user action at all. And even with a manual update, it is unlikely to take more than 10 minutes.
Here you can download bluetooth drivers for desktop computer, laptop and netbook in order to organize a wireless connection to connect the PC with other devices, using the built-in hardware Bluetooth module or a Bluetooth adapter such as a flash drive connected through an available USB port. Positive user ratings in reviews and comments in social networks, on specialized forums and other resources on the Internet, as well as recommendations on how to correctly download a Bluetooth driver for free for Windows 10, 8.. Permanent link: website/ru/drivers/bt
General concept of Bluetooth technology
If you need to connect a PC with any gadget using the Bluetooth protocol, it makes sense to download Broadcom Bluetooth drivers for free for Windows XP, Vista, 7, 8, 8.1, 10 and install them on your computer, laptop or netbook. This technology allows you to connect to personal computer the entire range of peripheral devices and equipment with the appropriate wireless information transfer protocol and use both one-time and permanently. The most commonly used connected devices are tablets, smartphones, mobile phones, digital photo and video cameras, wireless headphones, speakers, Bluetooth headsets for PC, Bluetooth headsets for phones, speakerphones in cars, mice, joysticks, keyboards, faxes, printers, scanners, GPS receivers, OBD2 ELM327 Bluetooth adapter for car diagnostics and more. Multiple Bluetooth devices operating on a network are called piconet. Both point-to-point and point-to-multipoint combinations are supported as standard. Before pairing, you must enter a PIN code on all active parties. Passive hardware has a built-in PIN code.
Among the advantages of this technology, it is worth highlighting the following advantages:
Quick search and connection of devices,
- low energy consumption,
- resistance to radio interference,
- data transfer in parallel,
- high-quality voice broadcast,
- 128-bit AES encryption for data protection.
Bluetooth is translated into Russian as "blue tooth". The technology has been developed since 1994 by Ericsson Corporation, and since 1998 IBM, Intel, Motorola, Nokia and Toshiba have joined it, forming Bluetooth SIG. Today, in addition to Bluetooth, such non-wired substitutes for RS-232 cables as infrared IrDA communications and local Wi-Fi radio networks have become widespread.
Bluetooth adapter and network
A BT adapter is usually a USB device that allows one PC to communicate with other PCs and other devices of the same type. local network with the ability to transfer data between them. Such data can be, for example, video recordings and photos from a mobile phone, ringtones, documents, e-books and more. Also, a BT connection is suitable for connecting to the Internet, for example, via 3G or GPRS, using the modem capabilities of a mobile phone. Bluetooth networks operate in the radio frequency range from 2.4 to 2.485 GHz, which is unlicensed in most countries, where Wi-Fi, radio phones operate and emit accompanying radiation from microwaves, scientific and medical equipment. In the latest Wireless personal area network, WPAN specifications, the range of Bluetooth networks has been increased to 100 meters, and data is transmitted at a speed of 3 Mbit/s. The most powerful Host XR from AIRcable has a range of 30 km. The scope of application has no restrictions: from the usual smartphones, headsets, GPS navigators to the OBD2 ELM327 Bluetooth diagnostic scanner and sensors used in science, sports, and medicine.
How to turn on bluetooth, download and install software
Before starting the installation, you must make sure that the equipment is working: connect a working USB adapter or activate the Bluetooth module in the laptop BIOS. Once the user has been able to download Bluetooth drivers for free from this page of the website in Russian and has started the installation, there is no need to configure anything. Installation takes some time, sometimes you have to wait depending on the hardware. When Bluetooth starts, it automatically diagnoses the equipment and analyzes the possibility of organizing a wireless connection, determines the parameters peripheral device. Bluetooth equipment on a PC does not always work perfectly, so we recommend searching for a computer in a BT environment using a trusted tablet or smartphone.
How to turn on bluetooth if there are problems
If there is a problem with installing drivers, then there are two options to solve the problem. The first is to check the functionality of the BT device itself, for example, the indicator is not lit, the computer does not detect it and does not show it in the list of equipment. The second is to make sure that the USB port is working properly by connecting any other device to it, for example, a flash drive. If the USB port is working properly, then it is worth testing for this computer a known working BT adapter.
As a rule, once installed Bluetooth drivers for data transfer work without problems even when changing the adapter. It is enough to download the Broadcom Bluetooth software once to your computer from operating system Microsoft Windows 10, 8.1, 8, 7, Vista, XP and install correctly. Reinstallation or update universal drivers Bluetooth is usually not required as the technology specification allows for extensive hardware compatibility.
