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I'd like to connect many computers and devices on a bluetooth network. Some devices are on different floors of my building. How can I extend the range of the network such so they can all communicate? For computers, I could use a bluetooth module with a good antenna. (eg: 50 meters range) For devices, how would they be able to contact the computers if their range is only 10 meters? I've searched for "bluetooth repeaters" in Google but I don't understand how they work. Do they relay communication so my computer software can connect directly to the device and be unaware of the repeater in between? Or do I have to program specifically for the repeater? |
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If Some cabling is an option, I've seen some Bluetooth-RS422/485 converters. That might buy you some range. Excellent idea! Thanks for the link and for the practical solution.
(Nov 14 '09 at 17:10)
Jeremy Rudd
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I actually used Bluetooth in a production application with these barcode scanners. Range was definitely a problem, and they tended to power down or go to sleep, and it was a bit frustrating for the operators trying to figure out why it wouldn't scan right away. I would say, watch out for Bluetooth in production applications right now, or do a lot of testing first. |
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If you use a Bluetooth repeater your traffic on either end shouldn't require any knowledge of the repeaters operation. A repeater essentially is just a receiver an amplifier and a transmitter. As Scott Whitlock said I would caution the use of wireless anywhere that data cannot be lost or where speed is a factor. |
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As I cannot comment due to lack of points, I will ask here.... What is the reason to use Bluetooth(PAN) devices on a computer? Range as you know is limited and speed is also very low. Would some form of hybrid work or do you require the PAN to function as a LAN for a specific reason? |
