Choose the right Bluetooth headset

Over the last few years, Bluetooth headsets have become must-have accessories for sales people, couriers and anyone who spends a great deal of time on the road. The benefits of these hands-free, wireless devices are obvious, particularly as it's illegal to use a handset in Australia while driving.

Just as the number of headsets has exploded, the number of Bluetooth mobile phones has increased as well. Integrated Bluetooth is now present in nearly all mobile phones — from high-end smartphones to low-end functional models.

A smidgeon of history

Before we delve into the different kinds of headsets, it may help to know a little about Bluetooth itself. Even though the technology has been around since 1999, many consumers are still confused as to what it is, mostly due to its odd name (after a tenth-century Danish king with an affinity for blueberries) and how it works. And though it may sound complicated, it's actually simple, inexpensive and easy to use.

Bluetooth technology involves two devices communicating with each other over low-frequency radio waves in the 2.4GHz range. No cables or wires are needed, as the only requirement is that both devices be Bluetooth-compatible. Unlike infrared ports, the connected devices don't need to be within line of sight, and unlike a phone-network data transfer, Bluetooth doesn't cost anything beyond the initial investment in the devices.

In addition to connecting a mobile phone to a headset, Bluetooth is used to connect PCs to keyboards and mice, handhelds to other handhelds, and phones to computers. Many cars are even equipped with Bluetooth so that you can use the car's audio system for hands-free phone use.

Pairing up

The process of connecting devices via Bluetooth starts with "pairing", where a headset and a phone search for and recognise each other. Once your connection is made and secured via a PIN, the two devices will "talk" to each other and exchange information. You can connect up to seven devices simultaneously at speeds of 500Kbps and up. Bluetooth does have limitations, however. Its range is limited to 10m, which makes it good for connecting a handful of devices, but not appropriate for an entire network of computers (you're better off with Wi-Fi for a network). Also, you can connect only devices that have compatible versions of Bluetooth (more on this later).

But while Bluetooth itself may be easy to understand, choosing a Bluetooth headset for your phone isn't so simple. The number of Bluetooth headsets continues to grow rapidly. Styles, features, performance and compatibility vary, so it's important to take the time to find a device that's right for you.