Free-space Optical Systems Research Articles

Mitigation of atmospheric losses using dual‐polarized 16‐QAM MIMO technique in free‐space optical system in various weather conditions

SummaryThe technique to overcome the challenge while implementing the fiber optical link is investigated using an alternative optical link called a free‐space optical (FSO) link with advanced modulation and signal processing techniques. A dual‐polarized 16‐quadrature amplitude‐modulated signal is transmitted over single and multi‐FSO channels under various atmospheric attenuation conditions. High bandwidth and data rates (up to 10 Gbps), unlicensed spectrum (above 300 GHz), and simplicity of deployment are significant benefits of the FSO system. However, the weather conditions of haze, rain, and fog cause signal attenuation when the optical carrier wave is transmitted over free space, and atmospheric turbulence is a challenge to FSO implementation, which degrades the transmission performance of optical signals for long‐distance communication. For 120 Gbps data transmission, the performance of a multi‐input and multi‐output (MIMO) FSO system is evaluated by observing the bit error rate (BER) and received signal constellation diagram. Optical signal‐to‐noise ratio (OSNR) parameters were iterated to determine the optimal value for back‐to‐back, single‐input, single‐output (SISO), and MIMO systems. Moreover, we examined the proposed system's output with recent articles, including MIMO, multiplexing, and various modulation techniques. The comparison of results shows that the suggested MIMO‐FSO model has enhanced the performance with the lower BER as less than 3.8 × 10−3 (log of BER is −2.42) forward error correction (FEC) limit for 18.7 km link range in clear air with 0.54 dB/km attenuation, 4.8, 4.5, 1.35, and 0.57 km under haze, light fog, medium, and heavy fog with 4.6, 6.9, 28.9, and 75 dB/km attenuations.

Transmitter diversity and OAM incorporated 40 Gbps free space optical system

Abstract The present research evaluates optical angular momentum’s (OAM) performance in challenging atmospheric conditions and emphasizes its significance in free space optical (FSO) communication systems. It has been demonstrated that implementing the transmitter diversity (TD) technique effectively suppresses inter-channel interference, improving system performance as a whole. The best option among the studied encodings is found to be the combination of non-return-to-zero (NRZ) and carrier suppressed RZ (CSRZ), which performs better in a variety of weather scenarios and covers a wide FSO range from 72 m to 1450 m. Proposed system offered distance enhancement of 81.25 % under clear sky, 16.66 % under light rain, 10.22 % under moderate rain, 3.4 % under heavy rain, 10 % under light haze, 4 % under moderate haze, 4.44 % under heavy haze, 12.5 % under light fog, 4 % under moderate fog, 7.8 % under heavy fog, 5.8 % under light dust, 7.6 % under medium dust and 12.5 % under heavy dust as compared to existing workIn particular, during bad weather, this research offers significant insights into the design and optimisation of high-speed FSO systems.

Performance analysis of the FSO communication system with random jamming over a composite Málaga turbulence fading channel

The performance analysis of a free space optical (FSO) communication system in the presence of random jamming is presented over a Málaga (M) distributed channel model with pointing errors and atmospheric attenuation. Firstly, the probability density function expressions of the transmission channel, signal-to-jamming ratio, and signal-to-noise ratio are derived. Then, considering the probability of the jammer and Gaussian white noise, the closed-form expressions for the ergodic channel capacity, outage probability, and average bit error rate are derived. Moreover, asymptotic expressions for the aforementioned performance metrics are also derived to ascertain the diversity gain of the system. Extensive Monte Carlo simulations are performed to demonstrate the credibility of this theoretical analysis. Results indicate that the adverse impact of random jamming is higher than that of Gaussian noise for the FSO communication system. Besides, this observation highlights the pulsating nature of the jamming effect, showcasing that within high signal-to-jamming ratio regions, a low probability jammer exerts the most significant impact on the FSO system.

Analysis and Mitigating Methods for Jamming in the Optical Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces-Assisted Dual-Hop FSO Communication Systems

In this paper, we present a study investigating the impact of jamming in a Dual-Hop free-space optical (FSO) communication system assisted by reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) in the presence of a malicious jammer. We analyze the combined effects of atmospheric turbulence (AT), pointing error (PE), and angle of arrival (AoA) fluctuation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Closed-form expressions for the overall average bit error rate (ABER) are derived while considering these impairments. To mitigate the jamming effect, we explore a Single-Input Multiple-Output (SIMO) FSO system and derive the end-to-end Average Bit Error Rate (ABER) under various jamming scenarios. Additionally, we conduct a comprehensive study by examining different placements of the malicious UAV jammer and RIS, drawing insightful conclusions on system performance. The analytically derived expressions are validated through Monte Carlo simulations.

Wavelength division multiplexing of free space optical system under the effect of oil fire smoke

Abstract In this paper, two wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) based free space optical (FSO) systems (single, multiple) are proposed and their performance is compared on the basis of Q-factor, eye opening diagrams and the total power of the received signal for different link distances under effect of oil fire smoke. The obtained results illustrate that the values of WDM single FSO of (1 km) distance exhibit good performance based on (Q-factor ≥ 6), but it was out of line performance at (2 km) FSO distance. The values of (1 km) distance exhibit good performance. On the other hand, the results of the FSO distance (2 km) indicate poor performance without signal loss. The presented results show that the eye opening for all the power values of (1 km) distance for both systems. Moreover, the eye opened only at the highest power value of (2 km) distance for single FSO systems. The eye opened partially at the lowest power of (2 km) distance and became fully opened at the mid-point and highest power values for multiple FSO systems. Thus, the proposed MIMO-FSO systems with multiplexes multiple optical carriers WDM demonstrates better results than SISO-FSO systems with WDM and the well knowing systems under similar atmospheric conditions.

Performance analysis of 5G and beyond mixed THz/FSO relaying communication systems

This paper explores the potential of relay-assisted transmission to mitigate fading in free-space optical (FSO) systems. Our investigation focuses on assessing the performance of a dual-hop relay system for Terahertz/FSO (THz/FSO) communication. We develop an aggregated channel model incorporating various factors, including pointing errors, channel fading, and deterministic path loss. Specifically, the THz link encounters α−μ fading with pointing errors, while the FSO link experiences Gamma–Gamma fading and pointing errors. We utilize amplify-and-forward relaying and derive mathematical expressions for the probability density function and cumulative distribution function of the end-to-end signal-to-noise ratio, considering the combined effects of channel fading and pointing errors. Employing the derived statistical expressions, we evaluate crucial performance metrics for the considered relaying schemes, including the outage probability and the average bit error rate. To validate our analytical findings, we conducted Monte-Carlo simulations. The results demonstrate a strong correlation between the performance of the system and the particular pointing errors and fading parameters linked to the THz/FSO connections.

Investigation of 16 × 10 Gbps mode division multiplexed enabled integrated NGPON–FSO architecture under wired-wireless link losses

Abstract To enhance the transmission capacity for energy consumption and low cost system, mode division multiplexing (MDM) using mode 0 and mode 1 is proposed and investigated. A pair of eight downlink and uplink wavelengths is transmitted by using each MDM mode in an integrated bidirectional next generation passive optical network and free space optics (NGPON–FSO) system at 10 Gbps per channel transmission rate under the impact of FSO–fiber links impairments. Simulation results indicate that received power of −21.2 dBm with 0.2 dB power penalty can be obtained over 1 km FSO and 100 m multimode fiber under unfavourable turbulent effects. The system provides extended FSO link range, and fiber range of 150 km and 600 m respectively at threshold limit of 10−3. Besides, the mathematical analysis depicts the receiver sensitivity and splitter power budget of 42 dBm and 18 dB, respectively, for the proposed system. The system offers finest performance than other pre-existing systems.

Investigations on OFDM UAV-based free-space optical transmission system with scintillation mitigation for optical wireless communication-to-ground links in atmospheric turbulence

The potential integration of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) with free space optical (FSO) communication systems stands as a promising innovation in the realm of wireless network infrastructures. This study presents a comprehensive investigation into the application of orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM) in conjunction with UAV-based FSO technology, with a specific focus on establishing robust wireless communication links to ground sites within the evolving landscape of 5G networks. The research introduces a pioneering 4-level quadrature amplitude modulation (4-QAM)-OFDM-FSO framework tailored for UAV-to-ground communication, revolutionizing the prospects for seamless and high-throughput data transmission within dynamic network environments. Through comprehensive simulations and theoretical analyses, we unveil the system's efficacy in mitigating atmospheric turbulence, achieving heightened signal integrity, and ensuring performance adaptability over varying link distances, thus significantly addressing present limitations in traditional wireless communication models. Anchored within the context of modern wireless network infrastructures, this work serves as a crucial stepping stone for the practical application of OFDM-UAV-FSO communication systems, representing a paradigm shift in fostering resilient and agile wireless connectivity in the era of 5G networks. The inception of cutting-edge wireless networks expected to outperform the capabilities of 5G necessitates an infrastructure that can handle vast amounts of data. This infrastructure must be not only cost-effective and simple to deploy but also readily scalable to accommodate the diverse demands of front-haul and backhaul applications. Motivated by the growing interest in harnessing UAVs to extend the reach and enhance the operational efficacy of conventional cellular networks, this work introduces a novel application of UAV-ground station connections. The concept employs FSO to facilitate network traffic within both the segments. To optimize throughput, resilience, and spectral efficiency, the application of OFDM is proposed. The research considers the transmission of a 20 Gbps 4-QAM data signal across various channel conditions. It thoroughly assesses the performance implications of factors such as transmission distance and beam divergence. The study explores the correlation between pointing error, scintillation, beam divergence angle, and average spectral efficiency. A slight increase in pointing error results in a rapid rise in the scintillation index, while a larger beam divergence angle can help minimize the impact of scintillation. Adapting the beam's divergence angle based on the pointing error between the optical transceivers can reduce the effects of scintillation and improve the average spectral efficiency and channel capacity. Additionally, the relationship between pointing error, scintillation, and the determination of the optical beam divergence angle in terms of beam divergence and average spectral efficiency and channel capacity is examined, and theoretical evaluations further confirm the method's effectiveness in reducing scintillation in the presence of pointing errors. Furthermore, the simultaneous use of OFDM adaptive beam divergence control and modulation could significantly enhance the data rate. This approach aims to reduce the impact of scintillation in UAV FSO links, which often experience significant losses due to unpredictable fluctuations in the atmosphere's refractive index. The results of the simulations indicate that the integrated 4-QAM-OFDM-FSO framework can realize high data transmission rates, efficiently serving front-haul and backhaul needs, thereby signifying a significant evolutionary leap for the next generation of wireless technology. The numerical findings demonstrate the significant impact of the coherent FSO OFDM optical wireless communication (OWC) setup in UAV wireless communications to ground links, particularly in mitigating the effects of strong turbulence and pointing errors (PEs). Through the integration of spatial coherence diversity and adaptive modulation OFDM in the coherent OWC, there has been a noticeable enhancement in the average spectral efficiency (ASE). Notably, our results indicate an ASE of 53 bits/s/Hz and 37 bits/s/Hz achieved at an average transmitted optical power of 10 dBm for an aperture diameter of 10 cm, without and with PEs for the coherent OWC-FSO OFDM UAV technique, respectively. The proposed method was validated through simulations, demonstrating both improved average spectral efficiency and effective reduction of the scintillation effect. This approach holds promise for mitigating scintillation effects in UAV-FSO links.

Maritime free space optical communications field test and link budget statistics

During sub-optimal weather, a free-space optical (FSO) link range degrades depending on attenuation (atmospheric extinction) and turbulence effects. The ability to predict the system level performance can be exceedingly challenging as the atmospheric variability in a maritime link can be large and difficult to model. Link budget estimation for FSO systems often takes a nominal view of atmospheric conditions; here, we use statistical atmospheric predictions specific to a geographic area of interest to enable performance trades to be evaluated through link budget analysis. We compare these models to field-collected data to show the utility of the statistical atmospheric analysis in predicting FSO link performance for specific parts of the world. We have performed shore-to-ship FSO communications field tests at 10 Gb/s with links reaching out to a horizon limit over 40 km away in times of moderate extinction to clear weather. We provide further analysis by describing the expected performance of the link using statistical probabilities via cumulative distribution functions of both extinction and turbulence. The atmospheric variability can be determined for nearly any region of interest through the implementation of numerical weather prediction data to calculate the atmospheric performance drivers. These conditions are specifically evaluated for the 2017 Trident Warrior field test off the coast of San Diego, California, USA.

Performance comparison of implementing ASK and PPM modulations for free space optics system integrated with FBG device

Performance comparison of implementing ASK and PPM modulations for free space optics system integrated with FBG device

Multiple HAPS-based space-air-ground network with FSO communication: a performance analysis.

Due to the fact that the existing generation of wireless communication cannot possibly keep up with the current traffic explosion and emerging applications, research and development on next-generation (i.e.,sixth generation, 6G) wireless technologies is being carried out worldwide. In this regard, it is anticipated that the space-air-ground (SAG) network with free space optics (FSO) communication can provide the terabits per second throughput necessary to sustain various potential 6G applications. However, FSO communications are susceptible to atmospheric turbulence, pointing errors, and beam scintillation effects. To remedy the severe atmospheric effects, we propose a multiple high-altitude platform station (HAPS)-based SAG network with a HAPS selection scheme. For the proposed system, we have derived the closed-form expressions for outage probability, average symbol error rate (SER), ergodic capacity, and outage capacity over Málaga distribution with pointing errors. Further, the asymptotic expressions for outage probability, average SER, and outage capacity were derived to enhance the comprehension of the system from a practical standpoint. It is observed from the numerical results that the multiple HAPS-based FSO system performs better than the existing HAPS-based FSO systems.

Nonlinear fiber effects in ultra-high power 10 × 10 Gbit/s WDM-IM free-space systems for satellite links.

We investigate an unexplored type of nonlinear impairments that will take place in a very short fiber after the booster amplifier in a Free Space Optical (FSO) system for space communications. In Earth-satellite links, optical power levels up to 100 W could be required at the transmitter side to achieve the foreseen 100 Gbit/s capacity, because of the extremely high losses. These systems thus need an optical booster amplifier having very high optical power and it should be connected to the transmitting telescope by means of a short fiber (few meters). Here, we discuss and investigate the impact of the nonlinear fiber effects by means of numerical simulations, and estimate the impairments in a Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) 10 × 10 Gbit/s system with intensity modulation. The obtained results clearly indicate that, in this system, the most relevant effect is Four Wave Mixing. We proved that this can be observed as soon as the total power exceeds 20 W. Due to the short fiber length, the system impairments are not affected by chromatic dispersion or channel spacing. We demonstrate that an effective means to reduce the impact is by adopting Polarization Interleaving, i.e., odd and even channels with orthogonal state of polarization. This solution could not work in long terrestrial links because of polarization mode dispersion, yet it can be effectively exploited in short fiber patch cords. These results can be used as a guideline to control this type of impairment in high-power FSO systems for satellite links.

Erbium/Ytterbium-Doped Waveguide Amplifier (EYDWA) for extended reach of Wavelength Division Multiplexing based free space optics system (WDM/FSO)

Abstract This work is focused to carry out the investigation of wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) approach on free space optical (FSO) transmission systems using Erbium Ytterbium Doped Waveguide Amplifier (EYDWA) integrated as post-or pre-amplifier for extending the reach to 30 Km for the cost-effective implementation of FSO system considering weather conditions. Furthermore, the performance of proposed FSO-wavelength division multiplexing (WDM) system is also evaluated on the effect of varying the FSO range and results are reported in terms of Q factor, BER, and eye diagrams. It has been found that, under clear rain the post-amplification was performed and was able to reach transmission distance over 27 Km, whereas, the FSO distance has been limited at 19.5 Km by using pre-amplification.

A long-reach radio over free space optics (Ro-FSO) system using hybrid orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (OFDM)-multibeam concept with enhanced detection

Abstract This paper focuses on designing of a 10 Gbit/s-10GHz hybrid Orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (FDM) based Radio over Free Space Optics (Ro-FSO) transmission link using optical single sideband modulation format and its performance has been compared using a different number of transmission beams. The proposed link has been simulated and compared using 1-beam, 2-beam, and 4-beam in the system. We show that by using the 4-beam system in the OFDM-Ro-FSO link, a 3000 m range has been achieved reliably, which a notable improvement when compared to previous work is. Also, we show an improved performance of the system by using an enhanced detection mechanism using a Square root module (SRm) at the receiver side.

Performance analysis of a hybrid optical amplifier based 480-Gbps DWDM-FSO system under the effect of different atmospheric conditions

Free space optical (FSO) systems offer a desirable and affordable way of providing communication services in remote locations. They provide secure wireless transmission without the requirement for licensing and with lower implementation costs. However, due to the impact of atmospheric turbulences on the effectiveness of FSO systems, their implementation faces significant challenges. Dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) has shown promise in addressing the growing bandwidth needs in optical networks. This paper introduces a hybrid optical amplifier based system, combining DWDM and FSO technology. Energy conservation in such a system involves optimizing various aspects to reduce power consumption while maintaining or improving performance. The proposed DWDM-FSO system operates at a rate of 480 Gbps and consists of 12 channels, each capable of transmitting data at 40 Gbps. The system's performance is evaluated and compared by determining the Q-factor and bit error rate (BER) for both the cases when hybrid amplifier is employed and with no hybrid amplifier within the C-band, specifically focusing on wavelengths around 1550 nm. Moreover, the length of the FSO link is increased to assess the corresponding Q-factor and BER. Resultantly, the maximum distance for the FSO link is determined, ensuring that it remains within acceptable Q-factor and BER thresholds. Furthermore, the FSO system's effectiveness is assessed and compared across various atmospheric conditions. The findings reveal that, in clear weather conditions, the FSO system achieves a maximum distance of 510 meters while maintaining satisfactory Q-factor and BER values when not utilizing a hybrid amplifier. However, by integrating a hybrid amplifier, the system's reach significantly extends to 1700 m under clear weather conditions, still maintaining acceptable Q-factor and BER values.

Leveraging InGaN solar cells for visible light communication reception

AbstractSolar cells are increasingly being utilised for both energy harvesting and reception in free‐space optical (FSO) communication networks. The authors focus on the implementation of a mid‐band p‐In0.01Ga0.99 N/p‐In0.5Ga0.5 N/n‐In0.5Ga0.5 N (PPN) solar cell, boasting an impressive 26.36% conversion efficiency (under 1.5AM conditions) as a receiver within an indoor FSO communication network. Employing a solar cell with dimensions of 1 mm in length and width, the FSO system underwent simulation using Optisystm software, while the solar cell's behaviour was simulated using SCAPS‐1D. The received power from the solar cell was then compared to that of four commercially available avalanche photodiode (APD) receivers. Exploring incident wavelengths spanning 400–700 nm within the visible spectrum, across transmission distances of 5, 10, 15, and 20 m, the study presented current‐voltage (IV) and power‐voltage curves. Notably, the InGaN solar cell exhibited superior electrical power output compared to all commercial APDs. In conclusion, the findings underscore that augmenting received power has the potential to enhance FSO network quality and support extended transmission distances.

Coding techniques for diversity enhancement of dense wavelength division multiplexing MIMO‐FSO fault protection protocols systems over atmospheric turbulence channels

AbstractAn enhanced transmission is presented in a multiple‐input‐multiple‐output (MIMO) dense‐wavelength division multiplexed (DWDM) free‐space‐optical (FSO) communication link using diversity coding techniques under the effect of turbulent weather phenomenon. The findings show good performance with an (8 channels × 2.5 Gbps data rate/channel) 20 Gbps 1500 m transmission distance. The bit‐error‐rate (BER), outage probability (OP), and signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) of the diversity combining techniques using maximum‐ratio combining (MRC), selection combining (SC), and equal‐gain combining (EGC) technique are evaluated in this work. The obtained results illustrate that Alamouti, space‐time coding (STC), space‐time block coding (STBC), space‐time trellis code (STTC), orthogonal STBC (O‐STBC), and quasi‐orthogonal STBC (QO‐STBC) on the minimum mean‐square‐error, and MRC are worth implementing on the DWDM‐FSO wireless communication systems. The mitigation of atmospheric turbulence is achieved using MIMO diversity combining techniques coding. The simulation results for diversity coding techniques using QO‐STBC/STTC and SC/MRC in the MIMO‐DWDM FSO communication system can improve BER performance, OP, and SNR. The MRC exhibits the lowest OP and BER when compared with the SC and EGC. The numerical results demonstrate that the FSO communication link using DWDM QO‐STBC/STTC improves the power penalty at both BER values under varying atmospheric turbulence conditions for ST, MT, and WT, in comparison to FSO systems without DWDM QO‐STBC/STTC diversity coding techniques.

Performance Analysis of Subcarrier Index Modulation OFDM in a DWDM-FSO link

Free Space Optics (FSO) is a wireless optical communication system using light to establish high-capacity links between points without the need for physical cables. However, its susceptibility to atmospheric conditions such as fog, rain, and turbulence presents challenges to signal quality maintenance. To address this, Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (DWDM), traditionally employed in fiber optics, is leveraged to optimize bandwidth utilization and scalability in high-capacity communications. The integration of DWDM into FSO systems offers redundancy and resilience against signal degradation induced by atmospheric conditions. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time a paper explores the performance of the Subcarrier Index Modulation Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (SIM-OFDM) technique within a DWDM-FSO system. The objective is to reinforce FSO link robustness and improve transmission rates. Through a comparative analysis with conventional OFDM in an Additive White Gaussian Noise (AWGN) channel, the study reveals a notable Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) gain of at least 3dB with enhanced SIM-OFDM (ESIM-OFDM). Simulations, conducted with realistic parameters within the DWDM-FSO architecture, demonstrate that ESIM-OFDM modulation enables a transmission range of 2 km with an aggregated rate of 10.1 Gb/s. These results underscore the potential of SIM-OFDM in enhancing FSO system performance through the integration of DWDM technology. The proposed ESIM-OFDM DWDM-FSO scenario could represent a highly interesting solution for establishing 5G Backhaul links.

Shear-interference assisted deep-learning for enhancing spatially multiplexing capacity of free-space communication

The information capacity is a critical measure in free-space optical (FSO) communication. Traditional mode-multiplexing techniques employed in optical communication utilizing Laguerre-Gaussian beams (LGBs) necessitate proper topological charge interval to prevent mode-crosstalk. In this paper, we propose a novel approach that integrates deep learning (DL) into the LGB-based optical communication model, incorporating shearing interference techniques. This combination enables the FSO system to achieve the theoretical limit of capacity, resulting in a remarkable 300 % increase in information capacity compared to traditional techniques. Experimental results demonstrate that the constructed neural network attains a flawless pattern recognition accuracy of 100 %. Additionally, we evaluate various partially coherent light scenarios under the influence of beam decoherence. The results reveal that accurate discrimination of multiplexing patterns is maintained when the fringe contrast exceeds 0.43. Even at a degraded contrast level of 0.18, the recognition accuracy remains impressively high at 91.16 %. To demonstrate practicality, we successfully encode and transmit a cyan-magenta-yellow-black (CMYK) color image using the proposed system, achieving a low bit error rate of 7.5 × 10-5. These findings highlight the potential of DL-assisted mode-division multiplexing for future optical communication applications.

Performance analytics of adaptive subcarrier intensity modulated free-space optical communications over general Málaga turbulence links

In this paper, we study the performance analysis of free-space optical (FSO) system employing a constant-power variable-rate adaptive subcarrier intensity modulation (SIM) and utilizing phase-shift keying (PSK) over the Málaga atmospheric turbulence with pointing errors. According to a target bit-error rate (BER) and the instantaneous signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), the adaptive strategy adopts the subcarrier PSK modulation order. More precisely, we develop new analytical expressions for the average BER, the upper bound on ergodic channel capacity for non-adaptive modulation, and the attainable spectral efficiency (SE) of an adaptive SIM-FSO communication system. According to the simulation results, it is possible to achieve an increase in SE under weak-to-strong turbulence conditions without the need to increase the average optical power transmitted or compromise the BER requirements.