From cheap home automation to finding lost items

Connectivity is one of the key functions in the devices we use on a daily basis. Our own smartphone is as useful as it gets because it can connect to the Internet and “talk” with other devices using a variety of technologies, from data cables to wireless means, such as Wi-Fi. In fact, one of the latest developments in Android allows file sharing using Quick Share.

But if there is one form of wireless communication that is known to all mobile users, regardless of operating system, it is Bluetooth. This mid-range technology has allowed devices like smartwatches or TWS earphones to become massive and also reliable.

But Not all uses of Bluetooth connectivity are known. Beyond being able to send files from one device to another, or connect devices together to link them to the smartphone, there are other, less flashy devices that can be very useful, especially for businesses, but also for individuals. Bluetooth beacons or bluetooth beacons.

What are Bluetooth beacons?

These types of devices are small, coin-sized devices that work only with Bluetooth technology, emitting a unique signal that can be detected by other nearby devices. By operating with a battery that gives it an autonomy of several months or even yearsand being so small, they can be hidden anywhere, without needing to be visible.

These tags can establish a continuous communication channel with other devices, which is what Bluetooth technology allows and differentiates it from, for example, NFC technology. track location of person wearing bluetooth device This is one of its main functions, since it can serve as a people detector but identifying the user.

The signal emitted by a beacon contains a unique identifier that distinguishes it from other devices. This way, you can accurately identify the source of the signal and avoid confusion. The signal is bidirectionalso that it can be received by other devices, such as smartphones or tablets. When a receiving device is within range of this type of beacon, which is measured in tens of meters, a communication channel is established that remains active as long as both devices are within range.

What is important is that the intensity of the received signal varies depending on the distance from the beacon, which allows to calculate the approximate distance between the receiving device and said beacon. This allows tracking of devices insideserving as an alternative to GPS in some cases.

There are several protocols that can be used to use this type of tag.but the two most common are those created by Apple and Google. The Apple company created iBeacon while the search engine was growing Eddystone, an open source protocol that works with Android phones. One of the advantages of this latter protocol is that it allows its use without the user having to download or install any application. Of course, some functions are linked to the use of the Chrome browser.

Compatible devices are those with Bluetooth 4.0 or higher, that is, any mobile phone sold in Europe in recent years. In addition, there are other receiving devices that can work and that, through another connection (Ethernet, WiFi…) allow data to be sent to a server.

Main uses

Geolocation. Beacons can provide precise location of users in public or private buildings. For example, interactive maps could be created based on location.

Home automation. Another use is the activation of certain routines or tasks within the home. Detecting a Bluetooth device in an area could allow certain tasks to be performed. Additionally, by being able to calibrate the intensity, it is possible that it only activates in certain scenarios, such as when entering a room.

Proximity messages. Another function of these beacons is to send text messages to people passing within a certain distance. This is particularly useful in stores and shopping malls, and can be used to send offers to registered people, etc.

Lost objects. Another common use for this type of tag is location tags, such as Samsung’s SmartTag2. These labels can be affixed to all types of devices to be able to locate them in case of loss.

Available models

There are many companies dedicated to creating Bluetooth beacons, especially for the business field. One of them is Accent Systems, which offers four models, some of which are compatible with the two main protocols, Apple’s and Google’s. The price varies depending on the model and the number of units purchased, but the unit price starts at around 20 dollars.

The models of Fegtrty They are also compatible with Apple and Google protocols and have a significantly lower price. A unit costs around 12 dollars, but in a pack of 4 the price is less than 40 dollars. Another pack available is the one found on AliExpress for less than 45 dollars with 5 pieces.

There are models like those of KKM that adapt to a multitude of situations. Some have a USB port so you can connect it to devices like computers. Others have water resistance, others have an accelerometer… They adapt quite well to all the particularities that a person who creates a network of this type may have.