Using Bluetooth 4.2 for the Internet of Things (IoT)

Using Bluetooth 4.2

for the Internet of Things (IoT)

Bluetooth is a standard for the wireless connection of mobile devices over short distances. It is treated as complementary to the wireless LAN and is evolved and modernized continuously by the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG).  Bluetooth does operate in the 2.4GHz ISM band, which is available in almost all countries. The typical range of Bluetooth is between 10 and 50 meters.

Ever since the Bluetooth version 4.0 release, in which Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) was introduced, the technology is especially interesting for applications in the Internet of Things (IoT). The massively reduced power consumption allows wireless "things" to send and receive data for several years without changing the battery.

Definitions and differences of the Bluetooth standards Bluetooth has received various names additives throughout its developments and versions that describe the respective functionalities. Bluetooth BR/EDR BR means Basic Rate. The suffix +EDR means Enhanced Data Rate (V2.0), +HS means High Speed (V3.0). Data rates were significantly increased with each version and can reach up to 2Mbps. Bluetooth BR/EDR modules are mainly used in data-intensive applications, for example headphones and headsets, printers, automobiles, etc.

Bluetooth Low Energy From version 4.0 Bluetooth became especially interesting for the Internet of Things, as the new standard Bluetooth Low Energy (+BLE) was introduced. The benefits of BLE are lowered production costs and a 10 to 100 times lower power consumption which makes it possible for a BLE module to operate for several years with only one coin battery. Bluetooth Low Energy is particularly suitable for applications that transmit small amounts of data and have low energy consumption such as Remote controls, wireless keyboards, car keys and sensors.

Bluetooth Dual Mode Dual Mode devices can simultaneously connect with both  BR/EDR and with BLE devices and thus cover the entire Bluetooth range. They are suitable for applications where multiple Bluetooth devices are used with different standards. Typically Dual Mode modules are used for computers, tablets, smart phones and gateways.

Bluetooth Low Energy - application examples Proximity - Two coupled devices indicate if they get out of range (e.g. keychains and Smartphone) Access - The Tablet logs in automatically as soon as a verified Bluetooth keychain comes in signal range Personalization – The Car automatically adjusts the seat to favorite position when you get in Medical - The scale sends body weight records to the smartphone, which then mails them to your doctor Home Security – Bluetooth sensors report a gateway when a window has been forgotten to close, which then sends a message to your smartphone Assisted Living - monitoring at low cost, for example for older people living alone Fitness - Sports data can be transferred directly to the smartphone and the Internet