Can I Use a Wireless/Bluetooth Mouse with My USB Bluetooth Dongle on an Older Windows PC?
If you’re working with an older Windows computer that lacks built-in Bluetooth capabilities, you might wonder whether your existing USB Bluetooth dongle can support additional devices such as a Bluetooth mouse. In this article, we’ll explore the functionality of Bluetooth dongles, clarify the differences between Bluetooth and wireless mice, and provide guidance on how to set up multiple Bluetooth devices simultaneously.
Understanding Your USB Bluetooth Dongle
Your current setup involves a USB Bluetooth dongle purchased from a local shop, which provides Bluetooth connectivity to a PC that doesn’t have built-in Bluetooth hardware. These dongles are designed to enable your computer to communicate wirelessly with Bluetooth-enabled peripherals.
Most USB Bluetooth dongles, including the one you mentioned from Uport, function as external Bluetooth adapters that allow your PC to send and receive Bluetooth signals. They typically support multiple devices simultaneously, depending on their Bluetooth version and the capabilities of your operating system.
Can You Use a Wireless/Bluetooth Mouse with the Dongle?
Yes, in most cases, you can connect a Bluetooth mouse to your existing dongle.
Here are some key points:
- Compatibility: If your dongle supports Bluetooth versions (e.g., 4.0, 4.1, 5.0), it should be compatible with most Bluetooth mice.
- Device Pairing: Bluetooth mice are usually designed to pair easily with Bluetooth adapters. Look for pairing instructions in your mouse’s manual; typically, you’ll put the mouse into pairing mode and then discover it from your PC.
- Multiple Devices: Most Bluetooth dongles support connecting multiple peripherals at once—such as earphones, keyboard, and mouse—up to the limits of the Bluetooth specification and driver support.
Bluetooth vs. Wireless (Radio Frequency) Mice
It’s worth noting that the term “wireless mouse” can refer to two different types:
- Bluetooth Mice: Connect via Bluetooth; compatible with your dongle.
- RF (Radio Frequency) Wireless Mice: Use a proprietary USB receiver, usually a small dongle that comes with the mouse.
Since you already have a Bluetooth dongle, your best option is to choose a Bluetooth mouse for seamless compatibility.
Setting Up the Devices
- Pairing the Mouse:
- Press the Bluetooth pairing button on your mouse (refer to the manual).
- Open the Bluetooth settings on your Windows PC
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