Wi-Fi & Bluetooth | IGCSE Information and Communication Technology Preparation - Year 11 PDF Download

Bluetooth

Definition and Range

• Bluetooth is a wireless communication technology that connects devices within a range of approximately 30 meters.

Pairing Process

• Before communication can occur, two devices must connect through a process called "pairing" to establish a secure connection.
• During pairing, both devices exchange cryptographic keys to generate a secret shared key. This key encrypts the data between the devices, creating a Wireless Personal Area Network (WPAN).

Frequency and FHSS

• Bluetooth operates in the 2.4GHz frequency range.
• To avoid interference and enhance reliability, connected devices frequently change their transmitting frequency among 79 different channels, a method known as frequency hopping spread spectrum (FHSS).

Preferred Uses

• File Transfer: Ideal for transferring files between close-range devices like a laptop and smartphone without requiring internet connectivity.
• Audio Streaming: Suitable for streaming audio from a smartphone to wireless devices such as speakers or headphones.
• Car Systems: Useful for connecting to car systems for music streaming and hands-free calling.
• Low Power Communication: Preferred for applications that require low power consumption.

Wi-Fi

Definition and Range

• Wi-Fi is a wireless communication technology that connects devices up to a range of about 100 meters, depending on the standard used.

Frequency Ranges

• Wi-Fi operates in both the 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency ranges.
• While the 5GHz range offers faster speeds, the 2.4GHz range is often preferred for its ability to travel further and penetrate obstacles more easily.

Connection and Channels

• Wi-Fi bands are divided into channels similar to Bluetooth.
• Devices connect to a network by linking to a hotspot or wireless access point (WAP), also known as an access point (AP).

Preferred Uses

• High-Speed Data Transfer: Ideal when high-speed data transfer is necessary.
• Long-Range Communication: Suitable for long-range communication needs.
• Multiple Device Connectivity: Preferred when many devices need to be connected simultaneously.

Similarities between Bluetooth and Wi-FI

• Use of Radio Waves for Wireless Communication: Both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi utilize radio waves to transmit data wirelessly, eliminating the need for physical connections.
• Ability to Connect Multiple Devices: Both technologies support the connection of multiple devices, enabling the creation of networks where various devices can communicate with each other.
• Support for Encryption and Secure Connections: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi both incorporate encryption protocols to ensure that data transmitted between devices is secure and protected from unauthorized access.
• Based on Universally Accepted Industry Standards: Both technologies adhere to widely accepted industry standards, ensuring compatibility and interoperability among different devices and manufacturers.
• Use in Connecting Internet of Things (IoT) Devices and Applications: Both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are commonly used to connect IoT devices and applications, facilitating communication and data exchange in smart homes, industrial settings, and other IoT environments.

Differences between Bluetooth and Wi-Fi