VISIBLE LIGHT COMMUNICATION
WHAT IS VLC
Visible Light Communication device capable of sending text, pictures, videos, etc over a binary light channel. We are currently using an FTDI chip to interface between the USB and receiver/transmitter. According the FTDI specs, the device is capable of Rx and Tx rates up to 3 MegaBaud. Assuming we have LEDs and Photodiodes (transmitters and receivers) capable of this frequency response
WHY VLC
VLC technology has the potential to deliver data transfer rates in excess of hundreds of megabits per second Using the visible light spectrum, which is free and less crowded than other frequencies, wireless services can be piggy-backed over existing lighting installations
WHERE IT CAN BE USED
Light radiation neither constitutes nor suffers from electromagnetic interference (EMI) making VLC a very attractive technology in places/environments where electromagnetic interference (EMI) is an issue, such as in hospitals and in aircraft In addition, where security of local communication is important eg defence and fanance applications, D-Light technology offers a secure medium for communication in an office/building environment.
Applications
WiFi Spectrum Relief - Providing additional bandwidth in environments where licensed and/or unlicensed communication bands are congested Smart Home Network Enabling smart domestic/industrial lighting; home wireless communication including media streaming and internet access Commercial Aviation Enabling wireless data communications such as in-flight entertainment and personal communications
Applications
Hazardous EnvironmentsEnabling data communications in environments where RF is potentially dangerous, such as oil & gas, petrochemicals and mining Hospital and Healthcare Enabling mobility and data communications in hospitals Defence and Military Applications Enabling high data rate wireless communication within military vehicles and aircraft
Applications
Corporate and Organisational Security Enabling the use of wireless networks in applications where (WiFi) presents a security risk Underwater Communications Enabling communications between divers and/or remote operated vehicles Location-Based Services Enabling navigation and tracking inside buildings.
EFFORTS TAKEN BY
Prof Harald Haas leads the EPSRC-funded DLIGHT project at the School of Electronics and Engineering at the University of Edinburgh. The two year D-Light project is midway through its funding. The main commercial goal is the formation of a University of Edinburgh spinout company, hopefully starting in 2012.
