Tuesday, February 26, 2008

Microsoft Bluetooth stack in Windows Vista


After searching the web using few different phrases, I found this Word document that explains Microsoft Bluetooth stack. Below are excerpts from this article.

Windows Vista (and XP SP2) supports Bluetooth version 1.1, 2.0, and 2.0 with enhanced data rate (EDR). Windows Vista improves EDR performance relative to XP and coexistence between Bluetooth and Wi-Fi in the 2.4 GHz band using AFH (adaptive frequency hopping).

In-box Bluetooth profiles: HID, PANU, SPP, OPP, DUN. Other profiles requiring third-party software: fax, headset, A2DP, AV remote, hands-free, PAN GN, PAN NAP, phone book, SIM access.

By default, Bluetooth system tray icon only appears for 10 minutes after a Bluetooth device (e.g. dongle) is connected to a computer. To make it permanent on the system tray (never disappears again), tick the "Show the Bluetooth icon in the notification area" option in Control Panel (Classic View) > Bluetooth Devices window.

Bluetooth in Windows Vista


After installing Windows Vista Ultimate on one of my PC two weeks ago, I finally have time to play around with Bluetooth. To my amazement, no additional feature (profile, Bluetooth-speak). The menu, the tab, and the icon are too identical. The only difference is the Vista skin which is in aero style. I'm not quite sure if Microsoft Bluetooth stack on Vista is of version 2.0+EDR because when I tried it once for a PAN connection, the status window said the rate was 1.0 Mbps.

All in all, I still need another (third-party) Bluetooth stack for Windows Vista to use my Bluetooth headset and other fancy applications.