Free space optical (FSO) communication is a trending field rising so fast to replace electromagnetic waves in communication. Free space optical communication has advantages and disadvantages in several ways. Here are some advantages over other types of communication:
- High bandwidth: FSO communication can provide high bandwidth. Therefore, FSO is suitable for applications requiring high data transfer rates, such as urban areas.
- Security: Since it uses light signals for transmission, FSO communication can offer a higher level of security compared to traditional radio frequency communication.
- Immune to electromagnetic interference: Unlike radio wave communication, FSO communication is not susceptible to electromagnetic interference. FSO is ideal for use in on-site environments that are prone to electromagnetic interference.
- No spectrum license required: FSO communication does not require spectrum licenses. This saves costs and makes deployment easier.
- No interference with radio frequencies: Since it uses light for transmission, FSO communication does not cause interference with radio frequencies. It is suitable for implementation in areas prone to radio frequency interference.
These advantages make FSO communications an attractive option for a variety of applications, including urban wiring. In addition to the advantages, FSO communication also has some disadvantages of FSO communication including:
- Sensitive to weather conditions: Weather greatly affects the performance of FSO communications. Fog, rain, or snow can attenuate optical signals and lead to reduced performance or disconnection.
- Line-of-sight requirements: FSO communication requires an unobstructed line of sight between the transmitter and receiver.
- Installation and alignment complexity: Proper installation and alignment of FSO communication terminals can be more complex. FSO communication requires careful adjustment to maintain the connection.
- Reliability in bad weather: FSO communications can experience reliability challenges in adverse environmental conditions. High winds or temperature extremes can affect the stability of optical links.
These shortcomings need to be considered when evaluating the suitability of FSO communication applications. In addition, there is a need for careful planning and consideration of environmental factors before implementation.
In their research, Mohammad et al. (2022) made innovations that present an overview of FSO communication systems for indoor applications. They discussed the use of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as transmitters, phototransistors as receivers, and variable resistance to change the voltage sent to the LEDs. This indicates a change in the transmitted signal. This research utilizes simulation models and experiments, resulting in a PCB design for the FSO communication system.
Alsharef Mohammad, Mohammed S. Alzaidi, Mahmoud M. A. Eid, Vishal Sorathiya, Sunil Lavadiya, Shobhit K. Patel, Ahmed Nabih Zaki Rashed
This study clarified an overview of wired and wireless optical communication system block diagram with practical applications. Freespace optical (FSO) communication is a trending field that is rising so fast to replace electromagnetic waves in a communication, so we have presented a theoretical circuit as an example and modified it to fit and work in communication purposes, simulation is used and then practical work is done and printed circuit board (PCB) is designed. Light emitting diode (LED) have been used as transmitter and Photo Transistor as a receiver and variable resistance to change voltage sent to the LED that indicates the change in the transmitted signal.
By: I. Busthomi