A Bluetooth breakthrough in surgical procedures

Neoprobe introduces a new probe based on Bluetooth wireless technology intended for use in laparoscopic procedures to communicate gamma radiation counts to the Company's Neoprobe GDS or neo2000 control units.

Neoprobe's wireless gamma detection products eliminate cumbersome cables that can unnecessarily complicate the surgical field. Neoprobe's line of gamma detection systems are widely used by cancer surgeons, especially in breast cancers, in a procedure called Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy (SLNB) or Intraoperative Lymphatic Mapping (ILM).

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Bluetooth Stereo Headphones or Headsets for iPhone

Since your iPhone does not support the Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP), you first need to connect an A2DP Bluetooth transmitter (adapter) to your device.

You can use a universal Bluetooth transmitter that plugs into the 3.5mm audio jack or Bluetooth transmitter with a dock connector.
If, by definition, all the universal Bluetooth transmitters will work, there are only a few Bluetooth transmitters compatible with the iPhone dock connection.

But one works for sure (we have tested it): the Jabra a125s.


Which transmitter should you choose?

• The universal ones will allow you to make any audio source Bluetooth-enabled, therefore wireless: MP3/ CD/DVD players, TV, PC, Radio, Boom Box etc...
• The Jabra a125s will work with your iPhone or iPod. Great advantage: no dangling cable from your player!

Now that you have selected your transmitter, pick up your Bluetooth headphones:

• If you go with a universal transmitter it makes sense to select a headphones-transmitter bundle.
• Otherwise you can choose one of these, depending on style and budget: behind the neck, around the ears, in-ears, or over the head.

Notes:

• The Bluetooth headphones will also connect to your iPhone via the hands-free profile to make and receive phone calls.
• The same principle applies to Bluetooth speakers. They will stream music from your iPhone, and some of them will also work as a speakerphone for a hands-free conversation.

Laurent
wiredforwireless.com

Callpod Dragon V2 Bluetooth Headset

Update: A class-1 Bluetooth headset allowing a 300ft plus communication range with your Bluetooth cell phone (it has to be a class-1 as well, otherwise the range will be limited to 30ft).
Main features:
Interesting walkie-talkie function with another Dragon V2 headset
Proprietary dual-microphone background noise cancellation. Up to 8 hours talk time, 300 hours standby Switch between Skype and cell phone
3 colors: Titanium Silver, Black Chrome, Carbon fiber

Manufacturer's description:

Talk on your mobile phone without wires using the Dragon® Bluetooth® headset. With a 328+ ft (100m) range, you can roam around your office or home without having to carry your phone. Dragon can also connect with your PC for Skype® calls simultaneously, allowing you to switch between your PC and mobile phone with a press of a button. With advanced dual-mic noise suppression™, the callers on the other end will enjoy crystal clear voice even if you are at an airport, noisy restaurant or car. Works with all Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones, computers and PDAs.

Performance

• Extended range of 100+ meters / 328+ ft
• Dual-microphone background noise cancellation
• Dragon-to-Dragon headset communication over a 250,000+ sq ft space
• Multi-device pairing (i.e. Skype®+cell phone or 2 cell phones) with auto-switching

Design

• Comfortable fit for all-day usage
• Two-button design for enhanced call control functionality
• Sleek fit and finish
• Reversible ear hook supports left and right ear

Compatibility

• All Bluetooth-enabled cell phones and PDAs
• All the latest phones, including iPhone
• All worldwide networks including AT&T,T-mobile,Verizon,Sprint/Nextel,US Cellular
• All Windows and Mac OS computers with Bluetooth

See also this review from the Gadgeteer

Old Car, New Tricks

How to get the coolest new tech in your current ride.
By Paul Seredynski of MSN autos

A great review of the latest in-car technologies.

Is my iPhone A2DP?

No, it is not! Therefore you can't stream music to a Bluetooth stereo headphones, a Bluetooth speaker, or Bluetooth hands-free car kit. Frustrated?

There is a way to solve the problem and bring a smile back on your face: connect a Bluetooth transmitter supporting the A2DP profile and start streaming your tunes. To good to be true? Yes!

Few transmitters are actually compatible. But one works for sure: the Jabra a125s

CyFi Wireless Bike Speaker for iPod. A World Premiere!

Press Release excerpt, september 17, 2008:

"Cy-Fi™ the world’s first iPod® compatible wireless sports speaker featuring Kleer™ wireless technology... Cy-Fi™ offers cycling professionals, outdoor and travel enthusiasts a unique listening experience featuring iPod® compatibility, CD quality sound, over six hours battery life, and a wireless range of 30 feet.
There is also a Bluetooth (A2DP) version available for use with cell phones, MP3 players or PDA’s."

The speaker is light ( less than 4 ounces) and compact ( sightly larger than a deck of cards) and comes in two versions.

1) The version using Kleer® technology is designed for iPod with a dock connector and includes an iPod transmitter.

Features:

• CD-audio quality
• 30 ft range
• Remote control from speaker
• Battery life: 6 hours

2) The Bluetooth version is designed to make hands-free phone calls using the speaker as a speakerphone. Since the speaker also supports the Audio Advanced Distribution Profile (A2DP) you should be able to play any Bluetooth-enabled audio sources supporting the same profile (iPod/MP3/CD players for instance).

Features:

• 30 ft range
• Remote control from speaker
• Battery life: 5.5 hours

The speaker easily mounts on bike, boat, backpack, etc., with the provided attachment. Note: since a Kleer technology uses 10 times less power than Bluetooth, it does not make sense that the batteries life is almost the same...

Related articles:

What is Kleer®?
What is A2DP?
iPod Untangled...




Laurent
wiredforwireless.com

Why is Apple hidding Bluetooth?

[4th-gen iPod touch Teardown] Why Does Apple Hide Bluetooth Function?
by Hiroki Yomogita, Nikkei Electronics, Oct 16, 2008

Very Interesting article. Could it be that Apple does not want you to make IP calls?

Bluetooth Headphones for iPod

In order to listen to your music collection from your iPod to Bluetooth Headphones your first need to make your iPod Bluetooth-enabled by connecting a Bluetooth transmitter (adapter).

There are 2 types of Bluetooth transmitters:

1- The Bluetooth transmitters specially designed for iPods with a dock connector (see picture).

2- The universal Bluetooth transmitters that plug into the 3.5mm audio jack of your player (wired headsets output).

You should pick up the latter if you want to make other audio sources Bluetooth-enabled: CD/DVD/MP3 player, laptop, desktop, TV, radio, boom box, etc.

Now you can either 1) pick up the transmitter (for iPod or universal) and the Bluetooth Headphones of your choice, or 2) select a Bluetooth Headphones that already comes with a transmitter, made for iPod (dock connector) or universal.

Remember that most of the Bluetooth stereo headphones have hands-free capabilities, meaning that you can connect them to your Bluetooth cell phone and switch between music and phone calls simply by pressing a button.

The Bluetooth headphones come in different styles and different prices (from less than $50 to more than $200). They are typically worn behind the neck, over the head, around the ears or in-ears (the earbuds resemble a wired headsets, except that the cable is connected to a Bluetooth receiver, not to the audio player).



Laurent
wiredforwireless.com

Is your Bluetooth mouse safe (part two)?

Airbus vs Bluetooth
Posted by Mark Sutton on 12 October 2008

A Bluetooth mouse is usually a class 2 device, meaning that the range is theoretically 30 ft at best. Now the laptop (or the Bluetooth USB adapter connected to it) could be a class 1 device, with a maximum range of 300ft.
Although I don't see how such a short range communication could have affected the 'avionics". Anyhow, if there is a slight chance Bluetooth is to blame, the culprit is probably not the mouse but the laptop or the Bluetooth adapter...

Laurent

Free your iPod from its docking station!

Wireless iPod docking station

Connect a Bluetooth transmitter to your iPod and a Bluetooth receiver to your docking speaker system. You can now play your iPod up to 30 ft away and use it as a remote control to select your favorite tunes.

Take a look at the iSkin Cerulean TX-RX combo. The transmitter (TX) and the receiver(RX) are respectively powered by the iPod and the docking station, so they don't need to be charged.

The transmitter can be connected to your Mac/PC via a USB cable to stream all audio applications to the speaker system.

Both TX and RX have a 3.5 mm jack connector to play any audio source to any stereo system (USB/AC adapters not included).

Tx and RX can be used with other A2DP devices like Bluetooth stereo headphones (check the Cerulean F1), and Bluetooth cell phones.


Related products:

Cerulean F1
Cerulean F1+ TX
Cerulean Rx
Anycom FiPo

Laurent
wiredforwireless.com

10 things you can do with Bluetooth

Keep your hands on the wheel when driving:
Bluetooth headsets and hands free car kits

Switch between phones calls and music:
Bluetooth headphones

Turn your laptop/PDA into a portable navigation system:
Bluetooth GPS receivers

Stream digital music wirelessly:
Bluetooth transmitters/receivers

Play your music without a home stereo:
Bluetooth speakers

Clean up your desk from messy wires:
Bluetooth mice and keyboards

Add Bluetooth capabilities to your computer:
Bluetooth USB adapters

Print wirelessly:
Bluetooth printer adapter

Wirelessly display your favorite photos from your computer or cell phone:
Bluetooth digital photo frames

Receive and make cell phone calls using regular telephones:
Bluetooth cellular gateways


See all these products here

GE Bluetooth Home Stereo Transmitter and Receiver 99004 Review

Transmit or receive music wirelessly

This device is used to receive or transmit music. Receive mode, you can stream music from any Bluetooth enabled audio source through your stereo system’s speakers. Transmit mode you can stream music from your stereo system to your Bluetooth stereo headphones.
The 99004 is a Class1 device, so the range is theoretically 300ft. (This applies only if the Bluetooth source or receiver is also a Class 1).

Size and Installation: This little guy is so small you wonder if it is fit for the task! Weighing in at 90g (3oz) and (4.5” x 2.5” x 1”). Connecting the line out cable into the A/V receiver input, and line in to the A/V receiver output, installation is complete.

Pairing: A breeze. I first tried the receiving mode in order to stream my MP3 tunes from my laptop. Set the front panel switch to RX (Receive), power the unit on, and wait for pairing to happen. Be patient, it does take a couple minutes to complete this process. After selecting the proper channel on my receiver, voila, the music was playing through my speakers.

Sound: What a surprise! My old stereo system is pretty decent (Onkyo TX-SV515PRO with a pair of Cabasse Corvette speakers). I also have an old AudioRequest musical server ARQ1. I was really impressed by the musicality of the streamed music, even with the 128 kbps bit rate’s tunes. At 256 kbps the quality was close to my ARQ1’s. Unexpected!

I then switched to the transmit mode. It is the same easy process. I paired the 99004 with a set of Anycom Bluetooth stereo headphones BSH-100 (great for working out!) and I, again, was greatly surprised by the sound quality.

Cool stuff: The credit-card-size remote control is certainly a treat. You can change tracks, pause the music and adjust the volume. To benefit from the remote control, your Bluetooth audio source must support the Audio/Video Remote Control Profile (AVRCP).

Bottom line:
I like products that are easy to use and install, deliver what they are supposed to, without compromising quality and performance. In this respect, this GE Bluetooth Home Stereo Transmitter and Receiver is beyond reproach. You can throw a party at home, being a “one-click-of -a mouse” DJ, or privately enjoy your favorite music or movie. It has become really simple thanks to the GE 99004

Pros:
Easy to use and install
Receive and transmit high quality music
Remote control Bluetooth
Class 1 (300ft range)

Cons:
None so far!!


Laurent
wiredforwireless.com

Is your Bluetooth mouse safe?

Bluetooth mouse may have caused plane to fall out of the sky, by Chris Matyszczyk

Is airports security going to confiscate your Mogo mouse?

Sony SRS-BTM30 Bluetooth Wireless Speaker Review

Sony Portable Bluetooth Speaker System

The outer packaging for this device is simple: no bells, whistles or frills. The actual appearance of the unit is also simple. The Sony BTM30 is a pretty compact unit, measuring 11x 5.5x 4” (Lx Dx H) and weighing about 2lbs, with only 4 buttons on the top: on/off, paring, volume +/-, and 2 jacks on the back, for DC and line in. The battery compartment will take 3 AA batteries.

Sound: The 6 watts speaker delivers a clear sound, crisp and powerful enough for streaming music your cell phone or PC (A2DP required), even when running on batteries. You can lay the unit flat, or in an upright position, on its”pods”. If you are planning to use the line in, be aware that the sound quality is pretty muffled and not as crisp.

Pairing: Ease to pair. The caveat is that the unit must be turned off prior to you pushing the pairing button. (You have to hold it for about 7 seconds). Whether it is with your Bluetooth-enabled audio player or your cell phone, it is easy to pair.

Cool Stuff: There is a line in that allows you to connect non-Bluetooth audio devices. The sound quality is not as good as the Bluetooth connection though.

Areas of Concern: The finished surface is very pleasant to the eye, but when you move the unit, it gives you the impression that it is going to slip from your hands.

Bottom Line: Great Bluetooth portable speaker for offices and dorm rooms. A good Sony unit.

Pros
Good sound via Bluetooth
Portable
Two-way power supply

Cons
No carrying case
Sound quality loss with line-in
Need handle to prevent dropping



Sheila
wiredforwireless.com

Wireless Computer Speakers

Go Bluetooth!

If you are looking for wireless computer speakers, the portable Bluetooth speakers are the ideal solution. They are compact , lightweight, both AC and battery powered, and will work up to 30 ft from your computer. All you need is a Bluetooth enabled computer. If your computer does not have built-in Bluetooth simply add a Bluetooth USB Adapter A2DP.

Also, some of them will wirelessly connect to your Bluetooth cell phone for hands-free, and ear-free, conversation (speakerphone mode).

Our favorites:

• The Artdio 311 (3 watts) and 132 (4 watts), for their compactness, price and speakerphone capabilities.
• The Nokia MD-5W (5 watts) for its built quality, sound clarity and hands-free capablities.
• The Parrot Party (6 watts) and the Sony SRSMBTM30 (6 watts) for their sound quality, easy pairing, and internal rechargeable battery (Parrot Party).

See them here

Related articles:

Parrot Party Review

Sony SRSMBTM30 Review

How to choose a Bluetooth USB adapter


Laurent
wiredforwireless.com

Certified Wireless USB

A new wireless technology.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, there is a new kid in town! The name: Wireless USB..

Do not get confused with a wireless USB adapter though! We are talking here of a new wireless technology, officially called "Certified Wireless USB".

Wireless USB is a short-range, high-bandwidth wireless radio communication protocol created by the Wireless USB Promoter Group. Wireless USB is capable of sending 480 Mbit/s at distances up to 3 meters and 110 Mbit/s at up to 10 meters. It was designed to operate in the 3.1 to 10.6 Ghz frequency range, although local regulatory policies may restrict the legal operating range for any given country. (Source: Wikipedia).

Wireless USB is basically 4 to 8 times faster than Wi-Fi with a Bluetooth class 2 range.

Also the frequency range of Wireless USB helps avoid interference with other wireless devices like mobile phones, Wi-Fi networks, and Bluetooth devices.

The first devices using this technology was, to my knowledge, the Iogear Wireless USB Hub GUWH104KIT and the Belkin Wireless Hub F5U302 (see picture). So far the reviews have not shown much enthusiasm, to say the least! Unstable connection, short range (if no direct line of sight), and slow transfer rate are the major complaints, not to mention the price...

Wireless USB still is a brand new technology with a lot of obstacles to overcome. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi can breathe...for now!

Here is a very good article about Wireless USB.


Laurent
wiredforwireless.com

How to choose a Bluetooth USB Adapter?

A Bluetooth USB adapter is a small device that plugs into a USB port to add Bluetooth capability to your computer. It comes with a software (Bluetooth stack) that allows you to carry out all your Bluetooth tasks: devices detection, pairing, connection, files transfer etc…

Here are some questions you want to ask when it comes to selecting a Bluetooth USB adapter:

1- What kind of software comes with it?
Bluesoleil, Toshiba and Widcomm are considered among the best Bluetooth stacks. I personally have a preference for Bluesoleil...

2- What is the operability range?
Don’t take the manufacturers specifications for granted. The maximum ranges are always calculated in “open air”. Class 2 range is usually given as 10m (33 ft) and Class 1 as 100m (330ft). In reality, walls, ceilings, and other obstacles can dramatically decrease this range. Rather, you should count on 10-15 ft for a Class 2 and 35-40 ft for a Class 1 adapter.

3- Is it compatible with my O.S.? (Operating System)
Windows, Mac, Linux, and is the firmware upgradeable? Check for compatibility of your Operating System. You'll want to make sure that the firmware is also upgradeable. Verify these prior to making your decision.

4- Can I stream stereo music like my iTunes collection to my Bluetooth headphones or speakers?
To play music from your PC to Bluetooth stereo headphones or speakers , your adapter must support the Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP). We either like the Anycom USB-250 , the Parrot USB Dongle or the Jabra A320s (see here). The range is wide enough for domestic use. You will enjoy listening to your music wirelessly and easily transfer files with another computer. Furthermore, these adapters are upgradable, and Vista and Mac compatible.

Bottom Line:
The best choice is a Bluetooth USB class 1 A2DP adapter. For a few bucks more, compared to a class 2 or a non-A2DP adapter, you will get a better range, audio streaming capabilities and a upgradeable device.

Laurent

Are you Pogo™ ?

A new Polaroid revolution?
Polaroid claims to reinvent instant photography for the digital age!

The Polaroid PoGo™ Instant Mobile Printer lets you share photos whether you are on vacation or just hanging out with your friends. Bring Polaroid magic from your camera cell phone or digital camera with ZINK™ Zero Ink™ Printing Technology from ZINK Imaging. Mobile and easy-to-use, the Polaroid PoGo™ Instant Mobile Printer provides a new, innovative way to share digital photos directly from your camera cell phone or digital camera, instantly. The Polaroid Way.

Learn more

What is ZINK™?

ZINK™ stands for Zero Ink™ - a new and simpler approach to printing where high quality, colorful, durable and affordable prints are magically created – all without a drop of ink. The ZINK Technology, invented by ZINK Imaging, encompasses both the ZINK Paper™ and the intelligence embedded in every ZINK-enabled device.

More about ZINK™

Laurent

Parrot Party Review

Tiny unit packs party basics

When I first received the packaging for the Parrot Party I was not to sure that it would be something that was ‘right’ for me. The packaging lacked something to be desired. In reality it almost took away from the product, making it look cheap and cheesy. However, once the unit was removed, it stood well on its own. It has a solid feel, sleek look and its contoured design makes it extremely easy to pickup and carry around (9” long and 21 oz).

Sound: We are talking 6 watts of clear streamed sound. Perfect for your computer or taking along with you on a picnic. The rechargeable batteries last a good 4 hours and helps turn this little sound system into a portable party pack. Believe it or not, the Parrot Party has a virtual Super Bass that reinforces the bass frequencies. And, it is a noticeable difference when this feature is engaged.

Pairing: Ease to pair. Whether it is with your Bluetooth-enabled audio player or your cell phone, it is very simple to pair.

Cool Stuff: The design makes it easy to carry, right in your hand. It also has a carrying pouch to help with the convenience of sharing your music at beach, pool side, or other places. There is a 3.5mm line in that lets you connect non-Bluetooth audio devices (cable included). Also The Party comes with a software, the “Parrot Audio Configuration Tool” that allows you to control the unit from your computer (volume, balance, equalizer), like a remote control.

Areas of Concern: Once your friends check this little unit out, they will want you to give it to them. Line in does not sound as good as the Bluetooth connection…But is that really a point?

Pros

• Compact, light weight
• Internal battery
• Great sound
• Sound effects really work
• Contoured design for easy carrying

Cons

• Line in
• Hmmm…neon colors needed

Waiting for the Parrot Black Party Edition! We will keep you posted...

Sheila

BlueAnt V1 Voice Control Headset

New BlueAnt Bluetooth headset

One of the first Bluetooth v2.1 headsets available, BlueAnt's V1 Voice Controlled Bluetooth headset features the BlueGenie™ Voice User Interface, letting you control most functions with the sound of your voice. Amazingly, the headset will actually talk back to you too! It supports Bluetooth Hands-Free Profile v1.5 and Headset profile, with a talk time of five hours and a standby time of 200 hours.