Technology continues to breach boundaries in our quest for faster and more secure communication. One such innovation is the emergence of Visible Light Communication (VLC), changing the way data is exchanged by using visible light. With ultra-fast data transfer speeds, greater security, and less interference, this new technology promises much for revolutionizing wireless communication. Here we are introducing what VLC is, how it works, and why it holds promise as a new frontier in wireless communication.
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Visible Light Communication: What Is It
VLC is a light-based data-conveying wireless communication technology. VLC is fundamentally different from RF-based Wi-Fi in the sense that it uses the modulation of LED lights to encode data that is readable by a photodetector—a light sensor—to decode the information. VLC transmits based on the visible spectrum of light with a bandwidth of 400-800 THz, which is wider and less crowded than the RF spectrum.
VLC: How It Works
VLC technology functions by cycling the LED lights in and out at some very rapid rates with patterns, so it is called modulation. Human eyes are not sensitive enough to sense these light switching patterns but a photodetector can capture these light switching patterns. So the converted light signals are transmitted to the data processing unit. Since most households and offices are using LED lights already, VLC systems can exploit existing infrastructure—the alternative is feasible and affordable.
Benefits of VLC
Below are a few advantages of VLC.
High-speed Data Transfer
VLC can transfer data at a very high speed, potentially reaching several gigabits per second. Thus, it suits environments that require internet in offices, hospitals, and educational institutions, where high speed is required.
Higher Security
VLC provides much more secure communication than traditional radio-based systems because light cannot penetrate the walls, and thus VLC transmission is confined to certain areas only. It decreases the chances of both eavesdropping and hacking.
Reduced Interference
Radio waves are increasingly crowded, particularly in urban areas. VLC, operating in the visible light spectrum experiences no interference from radio signals, thereby ensuring a stable connection even in the most crowded environments.
Energy Efficiency
VLC relies on LED lights, which are energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. They can simultaneously provide illumination and data transfer, saving both energy and resources.
Applications of VLC
VLC technology has vast applications in various industries. In hospitals, VLC can be used in areas where radio frequencies might interfere with medical equipment. In the automotive industry, VLC can improve vehicle-to-vehicle communication for safer, smarter transportation systems. Smart homes and IoT networks can also benefit from VLC, enhancing device communication without adding to radio wave congestion.
The most exciting technology dealing with VLC is going to shape the future of wireless communication toward a more connected world. Since it provides much higher speeds than other solutions, achieves enhanced security, and experiences less interference, VLC provides a viable alternative to traditional wireless solutions and paves the way toward faster, safer, and more efficient connectivity.
