IrDA and Bluetooth: A Complementary Comparison
Dave Suvak · 2000
Bluetooth and IrDA are two similar technologies with their own individual strengths and weaknesses. This paper provides a complementary comparison of the two to help determine which transport better serves a given application. By giving an overview of the two technologies followed by a discussion of sample usage models, the developer can understand how the technologies differ and where they overlap. Next, the paper provides a comparison of the implementation costs and regulatory requirements for both. This furnishes a complete framework of considerations needed to select the appropriate technology required for a given application. Introduction At first glance, it may appear that IrDA and Bluetooth technologies compete with each other in the marketplace. Industry analysts have openly wondered whether both technologies can survive, given that both provide short-range wireless connectivity. But if you examine the benefits of each technology, you can see that Bluetooth and IrDA are both critical to the marketplace. Each technology has advantages and drawbacks and neither can meet all users' needs. In fact, together, Bluetooth and IrDA create a powerful short-range wireless story.