Bluetooth Transmitter Help?

Forum 2005-2010 (read only) Hardware Troubleshooting
1

I should probably start off by saying that I am no genius programmer. Well, to be honest, I can't really code my way out of a paper bag when it comes to anything other than a markup language. But that's beside the point.

I don't yet own any Arduino hardware, though I am eyeing the ArduinoBT because I wanted to make what I think would be a very simple device. I am trying to make something that can be paired with a computer nearby via Bluetooth (maybe I could lower the antenna power or use a Class 3 Bluetooth antenna instead so as to be only within a meter or two, and for the sake of using a small amount of power) and simply send a short 64-bit (preset) code every few seconds to the computer. Probably using the DID Bluetooth Profile, though I am not sure. This device would also need to be constantly repairing with the device should it come back in range.

Are these things that can be done with Arduino? How would I go about doing it? I can give more information if I wasn't being clear. Like I said, I am an idiot when it comes to code. I have always known about Bluetooth having profiles, classes, and pairings. I have tried making such a device using other boards and such, and it just goes way over my head. I am hoping the Arduino is a little friendlier...

I would greatly appreciate any help!

2

The major advantage of the ArduinoBT (in my eyes) is that you can wirelessly program it over the bluetooth connection.

If you are only using the bluetooth feature to send data to your PC, you might as well get a normal arduino + a serial->bluetooth converter.

With this set up you still program a sketch using the USB cable with the board connected to the PC, then use the blutooth modem to send data. The advantage is that this combination is significantly cheaper than the ArduinoBT, and is more flexible if you want to re-use various parts on other projects later on.

Just my opinion and to give you something to think about.