Question 1

How to set up linux-ibeacon on a Raspberry Pi?

Accepted Answer

Install BlueZ 5.0+ and Python 2.7 via apt-get, then run the script with sudo after verifying your Bluetooth adapter supports LE using hcitool lescan, as outlined in the README's setup steps.

Question 2

Does linux-ibeacon work with Python 3?

Accepted Answer

No, it's written for Python 2.6 or 2.7 and hasn't been updated for Python 3. You'll need to use a Python 2 environment or modify the script, which isn't documented.

Question 3

linux-ibeacon vs dedicated iBeacon hardware: which is better for prototyping?

Accepted Answer

linux-ibeacon is free and flexible for testing on existing Linux hardware, but dedicated beacons offer better reliability, battery life, and form factor for production use, as highlighted in the value proposition.

Question 4

How to change the beacon's UUID without restarting the script?

Accepted Answer

You can't; the script requires a restart to apply new parameters. For dynamic changes, you'd need to stop and rerun it with updated command-line options or environment variables.

Question 5

Why isn't my linux-ibeacon detected by my phone?

Accepted Answer

Ensure your Bluetooth adapter supports LE (test with hcitool lescan), BlueZ is correctly installed, and you're using the correct UUID in the scanning app, as troubleshooting steps in the README suggest.

Question 6

Is linux-ibeacon secure for long-term deployments?

Accepted Answer

It requires root access and lacks built-in security features like encryption, making it better suited for testing and prototyping rather than secure, production-grade beacon systems.

Linux iBeacon broadcaster

What is Linux iBeacon broadcaster?

Overview

Use Cases

Best For

Found a gem we're missing?

Not Ideal For

Pros & Cons

Pros

Cons

Frequently Asked Questions