15-09-2017, 11:52 AM
In the last two decades, free space optical communication (FSO) has become increasingly interesting as a complement or an alternative to radiofrequency communication. Free Space Optical Communication (FSO) links are more susceptible to a tremendous amount of variability and offer a real challenge for efficient and robust system design. One method of transmitting information from one place to another by sending pulses of light through an optical fiber is Fiber optic communication, FSO communication systems will provide a large dynamic range of performance through most cases. It is a line of sight (LOS) technology that transmits a modulated beam of visible or infrared light through the atmosphere for broadband communications. Similar to optical fiber communications, the free space optics uses a light emitting diode (LED) or laser (light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation) as a point source for data transmission. However, in the free space optics, a beam of energy is collimated and transmitted through space instead of being guided through an optical cable. These light beams, which operate on the TeraHertz portion of the spectrum, focus on a receiving lens connected to a high-sensitivity receiver through an optical fiber. This document provides an overview of the effective function of free space optical communications (FSO) within next generation cellular networks. Key considerations are to increase the number of base stations as well as the advanced topologies supported by next generation cellular networks, paving the way for a growing reliance on FSO communications in order to support the high bandwidth applications offered to mobile users.