Bluetooth technology has revolutionized wireless connectivity. People can link wireless headsets, cell phones, printers and dozens of other devices using Bluetooth. However, as useful and advanced as Bluetooth technology is, it is not without its problems.
Profile
For two machines that can be linked together with Bluetooth technology to work, they must have the same profile. For instance, a "hands-free" profile must be present in both a cell phone and a headset for them to work together. While uncommon, profile mismatching is a problem that can cause miscommunication between Bluetooth-enabled devices.
Pairing
Pairing issues are similar to profile mismatching. For two devices to communicate they must be paired, or partnered together. This involves both devices, say a cell phone and a printer, exchanging passkey and security information so they can work together. Where a profile is like the language that the Bluetooth devices speak, pairing is giving specific code words in that language. Within pairing however, there are a variety of problems.
Cannot Locate Device
This is a common problem, not just for Bluetooth, but for technology in general. If your Bluetooth enabled cell phone says that it cannot locate the Bluetooth enabled printer, even though you can clearly see it, take a moment to relax. Bluetooth technology sees sort of like an electronic bat, putting out wireless signals that can be detected by other Bluetooth devices. While the printer may physically be there, it may be off, or it may not be putting out its own signal. Check that the other device is on, and in "discoverable mode" which means that it is putting out a signal and looking to be found.
Failed Pairing
As was stated above, pairing requires an exchange of security information. This is often in the form of a password and PIN number. If you enter an incorrect password or PIN number, then the devices will fail to pair. If you know you gave the correct information, but the pairing still failed to take place, then try turning both machines off and turning them back on again. This usually solves the problem.
Poor Communication
One other sort of error that most users find is that the two Bluetooth devices will pair just fine, but then won't "talk" to each other. This is most often because they don't have the same profile, as mentioned above. The easiest way to find this out is to check the manuals for the machines and see just what they do and don't have. Sometimes certain command words are needed, but it all depends on the manufacturer and the device.
Tags: Bluetooth technology, Bluetooth devices, cell phone, Bluetooth enabled, devices will, have same, have same profile