How-to use a bluetooth headset with SuSE 10.0

From openSUSE

This procedure was tested on SUSE Linux 10.0

What you need?

SuSE packages

Verify that the following packages are installed on your system:

   * alsa
   * alsa-devel
   * bluez-libs
   * bluez-utils
   * kernel-source 

If not, you can install them through Yast: they're provided in the SuSE 10.0 DVD.

Other packages

You also need the btsco package, which can be downloaded from http://sourceforge.net/project/showfiles.php?group_id=116589.

Enabling bluetooth services in SuSE 10.0

You can enable bluetooth services in SuSE 10.0 using Yast. Just go in Yast -> Hardware -> Bluetooth. Here you have to:

• Enable the bluetooth services.
• Choose to use a PIN and set the PIN to 0000. This is the default value for my Motorola HT500 headset.
• Click on the "Device classes and services" button and select:
  • Capturing
  • Audio
  • Telephony

Accept all choices to start the bluetooth management deamon.

Compiling the btsco software

Unpack the package you downloaded from SourceForge and open a terminal in its directory. For example, if you unpacked it on your desktop, open a console and write:

• cd btsco-0.4
• su - - Insert the root's password when prompted.
• ./configure
• make
• make install

Compiling the btsco kernel module

Preparing the kernel

Before compiling the btsco kernel module you need to prepare the kernel sources. Always in the console, as root, write:

• cd /usr/src/linux
• make cloneconfig
• make prepare-all

Compiling the kernel module

In the same terminal, go back to the btsco directory and write:

• cd kernel
• make
• make install
• depmod -e
• make clean

Final steps

• Insert the module by typing: modprobe snd_bt_sco
• Stop the esound controller, if running: esdctl stop
• Start hci0 hciconfig hci0 up
• Type hciconfig hci0 voice 0x0060
• Switch the headset on in the pairing mode and find its hardware address with: hcitool scan
• Launch the application: btsco <hw_address>. This application will stay active until the connection between the PC and the headset will stay on.
• The headset should be now represented in your SuSE as /dev/dsp1. Change the device permissions to 666, by typing:
  • chmod 666 /dev/dsp1

You should now be able to use your headset in software like Skype. In Skype you have to go to Tools -> Options->Hand/headsets and choose /dev/dsp1 as audio device. You can test if it works by calling the Skype test echo123.

References

• snd-bt-sco: a Bluetooth headset driver for ALSA
• Mini how to get a bluetooth headset working with Linux
• Guida utilizzo auricolare bluetooth con Skype (in Italian)