BlueCluster+

Bluetooth Multi-Hop Network

The self-configuring BlueCluster+ Bluetooth network can connect a large number of Bluetooth nodes with a central access point.

This means that the Bluetooth nodes in extensive installations, can work together toestablish a multi-hop network, which is designed in the form of a tree structure. Communications between the central Bluetooth device and the external stations can be effected using several hops. The central Bluetooth device requires only a single Bluetooth connection, using the Serial Port profile (SPP), a standard Bluetooth profile. This means almost any commercially available Bluetooth device can function as the central Bluetooth device. The "intelligence" required for establishing the network and communicating within the network is implemented within the Bluetooth nodes of the external station.

The BlueCluster+ network is established automatically as soon as the system is started. It is quasi-static in nature and all communications links between the external stations exist permanently. This means that the transfer of data can be effected without any delays being caused by establishing the requisite data links and energy-saving modes can also be invoked.

No configuration efforts are required for installing an external system; specifically, it is not necessary to define the topology of the network. The multi-hop network permits access even to nodes that are not "visible" to the central Bluetooth device. Any changes in network topology (selection of a node, installation of new codes) are recognised automatically, resulting in a fully automated reconfiguration of the network.

This solution can be used anywhere data is to be transmitted to a central data collection system over greater distances or via "visible" terminal devices. A cluster can include up to a maximum of 250 devices.