In free-space optical communication (FSO) photodetectors are used for both data reception and positioning. For most FSO systems, these functions are performed by two separate photodetectors. The development of a new avalanche photodiode (APD) array has allowed positioning and data reception to be done on a single device. This device takes the form of concentric cells with four cells forming a circle and a fifth cell in the center. The change from a standard quadrant cell format to a concentric cell format affects the tracking algorithm an FSO system needs to use. Analytical characterization of the effects of a combinatorial sensor of this type on an FSO tracking algorithm has been done but it has not been verified experimentally. Here we test different tracking algorithms in an existing FSO system to determine the optimal way to use a combinatorial detector for position sensing.
KEYWORDS: Sensors, Free space optics, Cameras, Prototyping, Short wave infrared radiation, Receivers, Acquisition tracking and pointing, Mirrors, Free space optical communications, Microelectromechanical systems
Free-space optical communication (FSO) enables high-bandwidth data links that are difficult to detect, intercept, and jam. In this paper we provide an overview of a small form factor FSO prototype intended for UAVs called OCELOT (Optical Communication Efficient Low-profile Terminal). NRL designed, developed, and tested an OCELOT prototype, and demonstrated a 1 Gbps duplex link 16 km across the Chesapeake Bay. We will discuss the design decisions and tradeoffs, highlighting the low-SWaP FSO technologies used in the prototype.
Access to the requested content is limited to institutions that have purchased or subscribe to SPIE eBooks.
You are receiving this notice because your organization may not have SPIE eBooks access.*
*Shibboleth/Open Athens users─please
sign in
to access your institution's subscriptions.
To obtain this item, you may purchase the complete book in print or electronic format on
SPIE.org.
INSTITUTIONAL Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.
PERSONAL Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.