What is the difference between Bluetooth and Wi-Fi devices?
[UPSC Civil Services Exam – 2011 Prelims]
(a) Bluetooth uses 2.4 GHz radio frequency band, whereas Wi-Fi can use 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz frequency band
(b) Bluetooth is used for Wireless Local Area Networks (WLAN) only, whereas Wi-Fi is used for Wireless Wide Area Networks (WWAN) only
(c) When information is transmitted between two devices using Bluetooth technology, the devices have to be in the line of sight of each other, but when Wi-Fi technology is used the devices need not be in the line of sight of each other
(d) The statement (a) and (b) given above are correct in this context
Answer: (a)
Explanation:
- Bluetooth and Wifi provide wireless communication and uses radio signals.
- Bluetooth uses the 2.4 GHz band frequency, whereas Wi-Fi can use the 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz frequency band. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
- Both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technology does not need a direct line of sight for information transmission. Hence, statement 3 is incorrect.
- Bluetooth works by using radio frequencies, rather than the infrared spectrum used by traditional remote controls. As a result, Bluetooth eliminates the need not only for a wired connection but also for maintaining a clear line of sight to communicate between devices. Hence, statement 2 is incorrect.
