Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
A Bit of Bluetooth Background
You're probably familiar with Wi-Fi, the standard that enables you to perform networking chores without the usual network
cables. Bluetooth is similar in that it enables you to exchange data between two devices without any kind of physical connection
between them. Bluetooth uses radio frequencies to set up a communications link between the devices. That link is another ex-
ample of an ad hoc wireless network (described earlier in this chapter), only in this case the network that Bluetooth creates is
called a
piconet.
Bluetooth is a short-distance networking technology with a maximum range of about 33 feet (10 meters). You can use MacBook
Air's Bluetooth capabilities to make connections with a wide variety of devices, including the following:
•
Bluetooth-enabled Mac
•
Mouse (such as Apple's Wireless Mighty Mouse)
•
Keyboard (such as Apple's Wireless Keyboard)
•
Headset
•
Cell phone
•
Printer
•
Digital camera
Follow these general steps to connect a Bluetooth mouse or keyboard:
1. Click System Preferences in the Dock, and then click the Bluetooth icon.
2. Click Set Up New Device.
If you already have at least one Bluetooth device paired, click the Add button
(+) instead. The Bluetooth Setup Assistant appears and starts looking for nearby Bluetooth devices.
3. Perform whatever steps are required to make your device discoverable.
Here are a couple of ex-
amples:
•
Apple Magic Mouse, Magic Trackpad, or Mighty Mouse.
On the bottom of the mouse, slide the
power switch off and then on again.
•
Apple Wireless Keyboard.
Press the power button, which is on the top-right side of the keyboard.
4. In the Devices list, click the device you want to pair, as shown in Figure 2.10.
