Factors affecting Bluetooth® range

Users of our BlueParrott Bluetooth headsets often ask us questions like “Why does the range vary on my Bluetooth headset?” The truth is, the answer to that question is right in the B250-XT User Guide:

Best range is achieved with line-of-sight positioning of headset and cell phone…Certain conditions and obstructions, such as other wireless devices, placing your phone on a metal surface (such as your vehicle’s hood), walls, etc., can inhibit radio wave transmission and reduce range.

That’s really the long and short of it. But let’s take a little deeper look at Bluetooth technology to better understand what impacts the range of our Bluetooth devices. Now, the first and most important thing to remember is that Bluetooth technology is designed for short-range wireless communication. You’re not supposed to be able to go for a walk around the block and leave your cell phone behind. In fact, there are three classes of Bluetooth radios, and all of them are intended for relatively short distances:

• Class 3. A range of up to 1 meter/3 feet.

• Class 2. A range of 10 meters/33 feet.

• Class 1. A range of 100 meters/300 feet (primarily for industrial use).

Class 2 Bluetooth is what is commonly used in mobile devices, like cell phones and Bluetooth headsets. VXi BlueParrott headsets are certified as Class 2, but the maximum achievable range of a BlueParrott headset is actually double what’s expected from your average Class 2 device. You’re only going to get that kind of range under optimal conditions. (We tested our BlueParrott headsets under a variety of conditions and under optimal conditions, it tested out to 66 feet.)

So how do you get optimum conditions? To get the best possible reception, you need a clear, unobstructed line-of-sight between your headset and cell phone. In simple terms, that means you have to be able to SEE your cell phone from where you are. But wait, there’s more. Obstructions don’t have to be physical things, like walls or trees. Signals from other wireless devices—even microwave transmitters like a microwave oven—can also interfere with your Bluetooth signal. Even the amount of water vapor in the air can affect it!

You should also remember that Bluetooth transmissions are a two-way street. So range is not just a function of the headset. It’s also dependent on the cell phone you use.

Any way you look at it, Bluetooth technology greatly improves communications by allowing you to talk hands free, whether you have 3 foot or 66 foot range. We appreciate your questions. If you ever have an issue with your VXi product, feel free to let us know. We’re always happy to help in any way we can.