Question Help Me Understand how Bluetooth Keyboard/Mouse Combinations Work

[Hutchins4292]

I recently bought a Dell Inspiron 13 (for cheap) that has only 1 USB port. I have been using a USB keyboard plus a USB mouse on my old system. To save that single USB port for USB drives, etc., I'm considering purchasing a Bluetooth keyboard (ergonomic) and mouse. I've done a little searching and get confused very quickly because some so-called wireless devices (Logitech) are not Bluetooth and require a USB transceiver plug. Other devices claim to be Bluetooth but their ads also show USB devices but don't explain where and how they are used.

As I understand it, BT devices can only pair with one other BT device at a time (although I have a pair of Bose QC headphones that can pair with 2 devices, by smart TV and my iPhone, usually). So, if there can only be one active BT connection at a time, how can both a keyboard and mouse operate over BT simultaneously?

I'd appreciate any advice on shopping for and choosing a BT keyboard/mouse combination unit. I have used ergonomic keyboards in the past and would prefer that layout but I'm not stuck on that choice.

TIA

 

[CelicaGT]

I don't know the upper limit, but my laptop(s) all are able to pair with at least 4 devices simultaneously (Mouse, KB, Headset, Mic). As an alternative, the Logitech unifying receiver (USB dongle) can also pair multiple devices. Often their M&KB kits only come with one dongle.

 

[Math Geek]

what you are seeing is a bluetooth mouse or keyboard that comes with a usb bluetooth adapter in case you need it.

if your laptop already has bluetooth built in, then it will do the job without the usb dongle needed..

the second piece is that the keyboard itself may only connect to one system at a time. but the laptop bluetooth adapter can handle multiple connections of DIFFERENT devices at a time. so it can use the keyboard and mouse at the same time. most likely also a headset and others as well.

 

[Hutchins4292]

Thanks for the education, Gentlemen.

I'll shop with more confidence now.

 

[Math Geek]

just to throw it out there. you can also look into a usb hub to simply add more usb ports

get one that plugs in to the wall so it is self powered and you'll have more than enough ports while sitting at your desk