Bluetooth Compatibility of the Targus USB Ultra Mini

by Matt Skaggs
Bluetooth is what makes hands-free headsets possible.

Bluetooth is what makes hands-free headsets possible.

BananaStock/BananaStock/Getty Images

Targus manufactures all types of technology products, from iPad cases to keyboards to Bluetooth items. The Targus USB Ultra-Mini Bluetooth Adapter is aimed at meeting the needs of computer users who need to use Bluetooth but don't have Bluetooth on their computer. It can be a significant convenience if you have a Bluetooth device but a system incompatible with Bluetooth.

What is Bluetooth?

Bluetooth is a wireless technology that uses radio waves over short distances to transfer data. In other words, it often eliminates the need for cables to connect two devices to each other. Common applications include syncing up a phone with a computer, connecting to a printer and sending audio from a cell phone to a hands-free headset. Most Bluetooth devices work up to about 30 feet, though others have a greater range.

The Targus USB Ultra-Mini Bluetooth Adapter

As convenient as Bluetooth is, it doesn't do you any good if your computer doesn't have it. That's where the Targus USB adapters come in. They simply plug into an available USB port on your computer, and with the right software installed, you can use the adapter to connect wirelessly to a Bluetooth device.

Bluetooth Compatibility

The Targus USB Ultra-Mini Bluetooth Adapter uses Bluetooth 2.0 technology. Newer versions of Bluetooth allow higher data transfer rates, but version 2.0 is very common. Fortunately, Bluetooth 2.0 is backwards-compatible with earlier versions of Bluetooth. Even if you have an old Bluetooth device that uses version 1.1 or 1.2, the adapter will still connect to it. And even if your device uses 2.1 or 3.0 Bluetooth, it should still work because those versions are backwards-compatible with 2.0. Basically, no matter what type of Bluetooth device you have, the Targus adapter should work just fine with it.

System Compatibility

You need to have an up-to-date version of Windows to use the adapter. You can use Windows 2000 or later, which includes Windows XP, Vista and 7. If you're not sure which version of Windows you have, you can check by clicking the Start button, right-clicking "Computer" or "My Computer," and selecting "Properties." You can also check to see if your version is up to date by clicking the Start button, then "Control Panel," then "Windows Update." If you do not see "Windows Update," check the update website (see Resources). Lastly, you'll need the adapter software installed, which comes on a disk with the adapter. You can also download it from the Targus website.

About the Author

A self-professed nerd who can't get enough of geeky gadgets, technology blogs and product reviews, Matt Skaggs began writing professionally in 2010. His work has appeared on various websites. In 2008 Skaggs graduated from Bob Jones University with a Bachelor of Arts in humanities.

Photo Credits

  • BananaStock/BananaStock/Getty Images