How to Enable Bluetooth on a PC

Bluetooth technology allows a variety of electronic devices to connect and communicate wirelessly. The most common use of Bluetooth technology is for connecting cellular phones and wireless headsets. However, many PC manufactures are now adding Bluetooth connectivity to their computers. Bluetooth connectivity can be found on both Windows or Macintosh-based computers. Enabling Bluetooth on a computer allows for connection with Bluetooth keyboards, printers or cellular phones.

Instructions

Windows Computers

1. Click "Start," select "Settings" and "Control Panel."

2. Select "Classic View" in the left pane of the Control Panel window.

3. Double-click "Bluetooth" and select "Options" in the Bluetooth Devices window.

4. Check the check box next to "Show the Bluetooth icon in the notification area" to always show your Bluetooth status in the Windows menu bar.

5. Check the "Allow Bluetooth devices to connect to this computer" and "Alert me when a new Bluetooth device wants to connect" check boxes in the Connections section. This enables Bluetooth on your computer and notifies you whenever a device is connecting to your computer through Bluetooth.

6. Check the "Allow Bluetooth devices to find this computer" check box in the Discovery section when you want to connect to another device. Check this check box only when you are forming a Bluetooth connection. Once the connection is created, uncheck this check box to prevent unwanted devices to form a connection with your computer.

7. Click "OK" to save changes made and to close the Bluetooth Devices window.

Macintosh Computers

1. Click the "Apple" logo in the menu bar and select "System Preferences."

2. Click the "Bluetooth" icon.

3. Check the "On" check box to turn on Bluetooth.

4. Check the "Discoverable" check box to allow other devices to connect with your computer. Check this check box only when you are pairing with another Bluetooth device. Uncheck the check box once pairing is complete to prevent unwanted connections.

5. Exit the Bluetooth preference window by pressing "Command" and "Q" simultaneously on your keyboard.

Tips & Warnings

• Turning Bluetooth off on laptop computers when not in use increases battery life.

References

• Bluetooth.com: The Basics
• Tips 4 PC website: Enable Bluetooth
• Apple Support website: Turn Bluetooth On and Off