This type of structure is referred to as GATT, or Generic Access Profile (GAP) and uses an Attribute Protocol (ATT). Note: I really dislike the engineering terms “master” and “slave”, but unfortunately those are the terms still most commonly used in this scenario.

Once your embedded device, say a heart rate monitor, is connected to the central device, it is now a “slave” to the central device, where the central device is now called the “master” after being connected. There’s no need for a mobile phone to act as a peripheral if it is listening to events from a central device. Peripheral devices are ones that are typically found on low-powered embedded devices, whereas central devices are those with a more “central” function, designed to connect to multiple peripheral devices.Īssigning the right type of device is critical to making sure your embedded devices are making the right connections. With Bluetooth Low Energy, devices are categorized into two types: Peripheral or Central devices.

However, first we need to go over a few key concepts on how Bluetooth works. Profiles, Services, and Characteristicsīecause of its wide adoption and low power consumption, Bluetooth is a perfect connection method to place in your embedded system.

Make your own phone app