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What is the 802 standard for Bluetooth?

Published in Bluetooth Standard 2 mins read

The 802 standard for Bluetooth is 802.15.1 and 802.15.1a.

Understanding the IEEE 802.15 Standard for Bluetooth

Bluetooth wireless technology is standardized under the IEEE 802.15 Working Group, specifically addressing Wireless Personal Area Networks (WPANs). The particular standards that define Bluetooth are IEEE 802.15.1 and its revision, 802.15.1a. These standards underpin the fundamental operation and characteristics of Bluetooth devices, enabling short-range wireless communication between various devices like smartphones, headphones, and computers.

Key Characteristics of Bluetooth Technology

Bluetooth operates within a specific portion of the radio spectrum to ensure global compatibility and minimize interference. Here are some of its core technical specifications as defined by its standards:

  • Operating Frequency: Bluetooth utilizes the 2.4-gigahertz (GHz) Industrial, Scientific and Medical (ISM) band. This is a globally available and unlicensed frequency band, making it ideal for widespread adoption.
  • Frequency Range: More precisely, Bluetooth operates within the frequency range of 2.4 to 2.4835 GHz.
  • Channel Division: To manage wireless traffic efficiently, this frequency range is divided into 79 1-megahertz (MHz) subchannels.
  • Frequency Hopping: Bluetooth employs a technique called frequency-hopping spread spectrum (FHSS). This involves rapidly switching radio frequencies, hopping from channel to channel 1,600 times per second. This rapid hopping helps reduce interference from other devices operating in the same band and enhances security.

Bluetooth Technical Specifications Overview

Aspect Detail
IEEE Standard 802.15.1 & 802.15.1a
Category Wireless Personal Area Networks (WPAN)
Operating Band 2.4 GHz Industrial, Scientific and Medical (ISM) band
Frequency Range 2.4 to 2.4835 GHz
Number of Channels 79 (1-MHz subchannels)
Frequency Hopping Rate 1,600 times per second

These technical specifications, as outlined in the 802.15.1 standards, are crucial for Bluetooth's ability to provide reliable, short-range wireless connectivity for a multitude of applications, from audio streaming to data transfer between nearby devices.