Kristoffer Fleming, Robert J. Hunter, Jon Inouye, and Jeffrey Schiffer
Intel, Mobile Computing Group

For the past several years, Intel has been exploring the space of an Always On, Always Connected (AOAC) usage mode for both the home and mobile personal computer. Intel is also one of the promoting companies of the Bluetooth Special Interest Group, whose purpose is developing specifications for a new short-range wireless technology that, when coupled with advances in power management, smarter applications, cellular networks, and information kiosks, makes this vision a reality for mobile notebook platforms. The IEEE is currently examining the technology for their Wireless Personal Area Networking standard. This paper focuses on key mechanisms provided by Bluetooth to support AOAC applications. These mechanisms are evaluated in terms of how well they support various AOAC applications.