Performance analysis of short-range optical wireless networks using FSO and Li-Fi technologies in the THz frequency spectrum with BER optimization
摘要
A short-range optical wireless network has been proposed using FSO and Li-Fi technologies in the THz frequency spectrum, operating within the range of 100–350 THz, with BER optimization achieving values as low as 10⁻⁹. The increasing congestion of the conventional RF spectrum and its susceptibility to interference necessitate the exploration of alternative communication technologies capable of meeting the demands for high data rates and reliable performance. Free-space optical (FSO) systems have emerged as a promising solution, offering cost-effective, high-capacity, and energy-efficient wireless communication networks. These systems achieve data transmission rates comparable to fiber optics, reaching speeds of up to 1.5 Gbps over distances of 400–450 m, while significantly reducing implementation costs. This makes them suitable for building flexible and robust communication infrastructures in both densely populated urban areas and underserved rural regions. Operating within the unlicensed visible to near-infrared (IR) spectrum, FSO systems provide extensive bandwidth but are influenced by atmospheric conditions, including turbulence, absorption, and scattering losses, which impact their reliability and performance. Moreover, the line-of-sight (LOS) constraints of FSO links necessitate the development of advanced pointing, acquisition, and tracking systems to ensure stable operation. This study investigates the implementation, features, and experimental performance of FSO systems operating in the Terahertz (THz) frequency range, focusing on their ability to support short- to medium-range communication. The results demonstrate that, despite inherent challenges, FSO systems can deliver robust wireless communication in scenarios where traditional propagation methods are either impractical or insufficient. The measured Q-factor of 4.33 for a 400-m range and 2.66 for a 450-m range underscores the system's performance. These findings pave the way for advancements in high-performance optical wireless networks, optimizing BER, OSNR, and Q-factor for improved signal transmission.