Vernier Tech Info Library TIL #1611

Question

Wireless FAQs

Answer

What is Bluetooth?
Bluetooth is a common short-range wireless communications method. It is used in devices such as cell phone headsets.

My computers don't have Bluetooth. I guess that means I can't use WDSS, right?
Not at all--you can probably add Bluetooth to your computer. A small radio, the size of a USB thumb drive, connects to a USB port. We sell one of these as: Bluetooth USB Adapter, order code BLUE-USB, $35.00. It requires Windows XP SP2 or Mac OS X 10.3.9 or newer.

I'm buying a new computer. Can I use a WDSS with it?
Many new computers come with Bluetooth built in, but Bluetooth may be ordered as an inexpensive option for nearly all computers.

Can I use more than one WDSS on the same computer at once?
Yes. The Bluetooth protocol allows for up to seven devices connected to one computer.

Can I have one WDSS broadcast to several computers?
No. The Bluetooth protocol does not allow one device to broadcast to multiple computers.

What happens with ten of these in the same room?
The devices do not interfere with each other because the Bluetooth protocol allows dynamic frequency switching to prevent interference.

How does my computer know which one is which?
We give each WDSS has a unique name by combining the name of a scientist and a number such as Newton01. These names are printed on the side of each unit. Within Logger Pro, there is a list of available devices.

What about time sync?
The synchronization between multiple WDSS units is quite good. The synchronization between a WDSS and other devices (such as a Motion Detector) can be very good, but it is approximate.

Can I use it along with wired sensors?
Yes. You'll just need an interface for the wired sensor.

I need help setting up and/or troubleshoot the WDSS.
We have a comprehensive troubleshooting guide to get the WDSS working with your computer and Logger Pro. Visit: http://www.vernier.com/bthelp for details.

Created by: dlim on January 16 2007
Last updated by: dlim on February 20 2007