Investigations on the performance enhancement techniques for free space optical communication systems

Abstract

Free Space Optics (FSO) is a promising technology for high-speed wireless communication systems. Unlike traditional radio frequency (RF) wireless communication systems, FSO uses optical signals to transmit information through the atmosphere, making it an attractive alternative for high-speed and secure communication links. It is also envisioned that FSO can support seamless ubiquitous high-speed broadband connectivity, which is a significant requirement for sixth-generation (6G) backhaul networks. FSO technology offers several advantages, including high data rates, license-free spectrum, low power consumption, and immunity to electromagnetic interference. However, it also has some limitations such as susceptibility to atmospheric turbulence, misalignment (pointing) errors, and attenuation due to fog, which can cause signal degradation and affect the FSO system performance. In this thesis, various performance enhancement techniques, including hybrid FSO/RF systems, optical reflecting surface (ORS), and optical space shift keying (OSSK) scheme, are discussed to overcome the limitations of the FSO communication.