Going a little off topic, I wanted to take a look at some connectivity tools and the best solutions out there. Connecting your device to a PC or laptop is an essential aspect for mobile users, whether its to back up your data, or simply send content to or from your PC. Most computers offer built in bluetooth technologies, however its usually at an extra cost or in a higher spec model, which again means more cost. So the other option is to buy a USB bluetooth adapter or dongle to enable this connectivity measure on your computer.

There are many different USB dongles available in various different sizes, and anything sticking out of a USB port can pose the risk of damaging the computer if knocked out or lent upon by mistake, so the size of the dongle is key. Up until now I’ve been using the Nano Dongle, which I thought was fairly small and compact to use for my laptop. That was until I received the Pico Dongle courtesy of MobileFun. Now this thing is small, in fact it is the smallest bluetooth dongle in the world.

The Atomic Pico Bluetooth Dongle is perfect for adding bluetooth wireless capabilities to a laptop or computer because it doesn’t stick out at all, which means you’ll never need to worry about it snapping off or damaging your USB port. Once inserted into the USB port you won’t even notice its there.

Technical Specification:

• Integrated Ceramic Chip Antenna
• Data Transfer 3 Mbit/s (max)
• 10 Metre Coverage
• Class 2 Specification
• Frequency: 2.4GHz ISM Spectrum
• Dimensions: 12 mm x 13 mm x 3 mm
• Supported Profiles: A2DP, AVRCP, BIP, DUN, FAX, FTP, HCRP, HID, HSP, HFP, LAP, OPP, PAN, SPP
• Security: Pairing Encryption and Authentication

The Atomic Pico Bluetooth Dongle enables you to connect many different bluetooth devices to your computer, and multiple devices can be connected at the same time. You can use it to transfer photos, music or data between your computer and mobile phone and even connect a bluetooth mouse, keyboard, headset, speakers, GPS receiver, printer all at the same time.

In the Box:

• Atomic Pico Bluetooth Dongle
• BlueSoleil Bluetooth Software CD

Design:
Once you plug the Pico dongle into your computer you can forget about it. It doesn’t stick out all, nor does it heat up. It is built extremly well and is safe to leave inserted into your computer for long periods of time. Looking at the images above its hard to tell the dongle is even there when compared to the nano dongle.

Installation:
No drivers are needed for basic operation. The dongle has Plug ‘n’ Play support with Windows XP, Vista and Windows 7, and you also have the option to install the full version of the BlueSoliel software, bundled with the dongle, for more advanced options.

OS Compatibility:

• Windows Vista
• Windows XP
• Windows ME
• Windows 98
• Mac OSX

Mobile Phone Software:
Support for universal device drag ‘n’ drop file transfer as well as compatibility with mobile phone management software including:

• Nokia PC Suite
• Sony Ericsson PC Suite
• Samsung Easy Studio
• Motorola Phone Tools
• And many more

Conclusion:

The Atomic Pico Bluetooth Dongle is ideal for adding bluetooth to your laptop or netbook as it will not stick out one bit. It truly is the smallest bluetooth dongle in the world, and with Plug ‘n’ Play support you simply need to stick it in your USB port and you’re set. The support for multiple connections is very useful and it’s backward compatibility will ensure all of your older bluetooth devices are catered for. It also interferes less with WiFi networks which is a great plus, and the fact that its compatible with skype just puts the icing on the cake for me. The RRP for the Atomic Pico bluetooth Dongle is £19.95, however you can buy it for £8.95 from MobileFun, who also offer a 30 day money back guarantee and a years warrantee with every purchase.

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4. Review: Salling Clicker on your Nseries
5. Review: Nokia N95 8GB