Bluetooth Software for Notebooks

Bluetooth adapters are becoming increasingly common in notebook and laptop computers. With this adapter, a user can interfaced a headset, music player, radio or mobile phone to the computer without cables.

Function

Bluetooth software allows the user to turn on or off embedded Bluetooth adapters in their notebook computers. The software allows for transferring of files, connecting audio input or output devices -- headsets or MP3 players -- and other activities, when supported by the notebook and connected Bluetooth device.

Considerations

Personal computers equipped with Bluetooth devices and the Windows operating system already contain native Bluetooth software. Windows Vista and Windows 7 users can search for Bluetooth tools in the Start menu, click the Bluetooth icon in the taskbar or open the Control Panel to access Bluetooth options.

Alternatives

Users should search for Bluetooth software from the manufacturer of their Bluetooth adapter -- this device is listed in the "Devices and Printers" section of the Windows Control Panel). For example, Broadcom offers software downloads for users of its Bluetooth hardware.

Drivers

Drivers are a specific type of software that hardware connected to notebook computers requires for it to properly communicate with the computer. Users do not interact with driver software, but updating the driver may resolve problems with a Bluetooth device.

References

• Windows: Set up a Bluetooth Enabled Device
• Microsoft: Microsoft Bluetooth Compatibility

Resources

• Windows: Networking: Bluetooth Adaptersc
• Microsoft Support: How to Install and Configure Bluetooth Devices in Windows XP Service Pack 2
• Windows: Troubleshoot Problems with Bluetooth Enabled Devices
• Broadcom: Bluetooth Software Download