Improved robustness and capacity in modulated retro-reflective (MRR) optical communication links

Jouni Rantakokko; Peter Holm

doi:10.1117/12.690416

13 October 2006 Improved robustness and capacity in modulated retro-reflective (MRR) optical communication links

Jouni Rantakokko, Peter Holm

Proceedings Volume 6399, Advanced Free-Space Optical Communication Techniques/Applications II and Photonic Components/Architectures for Microwave Systems and Displays; 63990B (2006) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.690416
Event: Optics/Photonics in Security and Defence, 2006, Stockholm, Sweden

Abstract

Recent field trials have shown that modulated retro-reflective (MRR) optical communications is a potentially feasible technique for applications demanding high data rates. Data rates over 10 Mbit/s has been demonstrated with Multiple Quantum Well (MQW) modulators in experimental MRR systems. An MQW-based MRR has a variable reflectance and information can thus be transmitted to the receiver by modulating the intensity of the reflected signal. However, current experimental systems normally use binary modulation (e.g. on-off keying) and the data rate is then strictly limited by the modulation speed of the retro-reflector. Instead, by employing a multiple-level modulation scheme the data rate can be increased substantially. Herein, we discuss if the use of different signal processing techniques, commonly used in radio communication systems, may improve the robustness and capacity of MRR free-space optical communication links. Techniques of interest are mainly error-correcting codes, link adaptation and high-level modulation schemes. Furthermore, we apply some of these techniques on measured channel data that has been collected in recent field trials. Through simulations we demonstrate the potential gains that can be achieved through the use of link adaptation and multiple-level modulation. Finally, a brief comparison with competing radio techniques is given.

Citation Download Citation

Jouni Rantakokko and Peter Holm "Improved robustness and capacity in modulated retro-reflective (MRR) optical communication links", Proc. SPIE 6399, Advanced Free-Space Optical Communication Techniques/Applications II and Photonic Components/Architectures for Microwave Systems and Displays, 63990B (13 October 2006); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.690416

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