The Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) has formally adopted Bluetooth Core Specification Version 4.0, which was designed to support low-energy technology. As a result, the Bluetooth SIG Qualification Program is now open for qualification of all Bluetooth product types to the Version 4.0 Specification.

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The specification features ultra-low peak, average, and idle mode power consumption; the ability to run for years on standard coin-cell batteries; low cost; multi-vendor interoperability; and enhanced range. Details are available for download at www.bluetooth.org. Test documentation, including requirements and tools to support member qualification efforts, is available at the site as well. Adopted Bluetooth Core Specifications also are available to the general public at www.bluetooth.com.

According to the SIG, Bluetooth low-energy technology opens new markets for devices requiring low-cost and low-power wireless connectivity. These applications include health care, sports and fitness, security, and home entertainment, which the group believes will benefit from the availability of coin-cell battery-powered wireless products and sensors enabled by Bluetooth.

Bluetooth SIG members may perform interoperability testing at the group’s UnPlugFest 37, scheduled for October 4-8 in Barcelona, Spain. Also, hands-on testing and qualification training is available through the SIG’s one-week Advanced Training Lab and Services (ATLAS) program at the group’s labs in Kirkland, Wash. The program is designed to give participants the knowledge to develop their own Bluetooth testing and qualification expertise to build better products at lower qualification costs.

Bluetooth SIG