Bluetooth Headset Buyer’s Guide
Bluetooth headsets are pretty much an essential item these days. Like all wireless headsets, the benefits of increased mobility are far greater than the low cost factor of corded headsets.
Now that the law has changed - and prison sentences are a possibility - driving without using a mobile phone headset is lunacy. Whilst we don’t recommend using a mobile phone when driving, using a headset is currently allowed in the UK.
King Bluetooth
Bluetooth technology was developed by Ericsson way back in 1994 but it has only recently become mainstream, driven by necessity and falling prices. However, many consumers are still learning about bluetooth technology and its benefits.
The Bluetooth name actually comes from a 10th century Danish King - Harald Bluetooth, who reigned from 940 to 985. King Bluetooth is credited with unifying Denmark and bringing order to the country. The symbolic nature of this is what led Ericsson to use the Bluetooth name.
Bluetooth Communication
Bluetooth devices communicate with each other using low-frequency radio waves, which results in it becoming wireless. Bluetooth is different to infrared technology as the two devices don’t need to be in line of sight with each other.
As well as connecting a mobile phone to a headset, Bluetooth technology can be usec to connect any two compatible devices together, including computers, keyboards, mice, PDAs, handhelds and desk phones.
Pairing Bluetooth Devices
Pairing is where two Bluetooth devices search for and recognise each other. The two devices are then able to communicate with each other and exchange information. Bluetooth does have limitations though - its effective range is around 10m although high-powered devices can go up to 100m. Another factor is that the two devices can only connect if they have compatible versions of Bluetooth.
Choosing a Headset
The range of Bluetooth headsets is quite extensive, which results in a wide variety of choice. Styles, features and compatibility all vary and so it is important to give careful consideration to find the ideal device that’s right for you.
Some Bluetooth headsets have a boom microphone and some don’t. A boom is an extended microphone that leans towards the mouth. Whilst the microphone’s proximity to the mouth can result in better audio clarity, boom headsets tend to be slightly larger. Whilst this may not be a factor for use in an office, it may be a factor for use with a Bluetooth enabled mobile phone. Bluetooth headsets are available as ‘in the ear’ & ‘behind the ear’ models. An increasing number of headsets fit directly in the ear which means they don’t need to be worn with ear loops or other equipment.
While boom headsets were the most popular for a while, headsets without the boom have become more popular recently. This is driven by their more compact design and that there are probably a wider choice.
It’s important to check a few different styles to see what’s most comfortable for you.
Bluetooth Technology
Although most Bluetooth headsets are compatible with most Bluetooth enabled mobile phones, compatibility may still be a buying consideration. Bluetooth technology comes in different versions, so make sure that the two devices are compatible with each other. Devices initially used Bluetooth version 1.1, however, in 2003, the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG), released version 1.2 and a year later released version 2.0 which is the current standard.
Bluetooth 1.2 introduced features that helped to eliminate radio frequency interference and also increased the security features. Bluetooth 2.0 saw the introduction of higher connection speeds and improved power consumption. So there you have it - Bluetooth technology is now faster, more secure, more power conscious and delivers high quality communication as standard.
Another recent Bluetooth development is Advanced Audio Distribution Profile. This is more commonly known as stereo Bluetooth as it allows for dual-channel audio streaming, particularly beneficial for use with MP3 players. This type of headset is especially popular with users who use the MP3 Player on their mobile phone as it allows them to seamlessly switch between music & phone calls at the touch of a button.
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