What is the full form of FSO?

Introduction

Free Space Optical (FSO) theory is similar to fibre optic transmission and line of sight technology. Line of sight technology means that the path between the transmitter and the receiver should be unobstructed.

Any physical obstacle such as buildings or trees will interfere with the signal leading to loss of signal. Its optical bandwidth is high. Lasers or LEDs are used to transfer data in short to medium distances i.e. up to a few kilometres. There is no need for physical cables to transmit the data.

How does line of sight work?

Line of sight or LOS is the transmission of electromagnetic or light waves between a sender and a receiver without any obstruction in the path. Both transmitter and receiver should be placed in such a way that the path between them is clear. Certain factors such as weather can affect LOS.

Application of FSO

Free space optical technology has many applications in various fields. Some common applications are

• It can provide emergency and temporary wireless connectivity in certain remote areas for disaster recovery operations. During disasters, there is a disruption of traditional communication networks.

• It can provide wireless links between cameras and control rooms for high-speed video surveillance. It enables real-time monitoring and response.

• It can help to test and evaluate wireless communication systems by providing an optimal testing environment for research and development.

• It has low latency and high bandwidth to establish a secure connection for military communication and operations.

• It can be used in smart cities as smart cities depend upon a network of interconnected devices. Example: It can be used in traffic lights.

Advantages of FSO

Free space optical technology has many advantages over traditional communication technologies.

• The bandwidth of free space optical technology is up to many gigabytes per second. As it offers a very high bandwidth it is favourable for video streaming, stock trading.

• Applications requiring real-time response such as military communications can be used with the help of FSO because it offers low latency. Low latency means data can be transferred without delay.

• FSO can maintain the signal quality in harsh weather. Thus, it is a reliable mode of connection.

• FSOs are environment-friendly as they don’t require any physical infrastructure to be built. They are also easy to install as it doesn't require digging and laying of cables.

• FSOs are very cost-effective as it doesn't require infrastructures to be built.

• It is also energy efficient as the power consumption by FSO is low as compared to traditional communication methods.

Disadvantages of FSO

• Physical infrastructures such as buildings and trees can disrupt the signal as it works on the line of sight method.

• FSO cannot support long-distance communication. It is limited to a few kilometres.

• FSO is susceptible to atmospheric turbulence and is highly dependent on weather. It can cause signal fluctuation and loss.

Conclusion

FSO is a good alternative to traditional communication methods and its demand is also increasing. It has many advantages such as high bandwidth, low latency and cost- effectiveness. However, there are some disadvantages as well such as limited range, weather dependency etc. Though there are some disadvantages, it is still rapidly advancing and will grow more with the help of research and development.

FAQs

Q1. What is free space optical technology? What are its advantages?

Free space optical technology is a wireless communication technology that uses the line of sight to send and receive data. Its advantages include high bandwidth, low latency and cost-effectiveness. It is also environmentally friendly.

Q2. How does FSO technology differ from conventional communication technologies?

FSO uses the line of sight method and light waves to transmit the data through the atmosphere whereas other communication technologies such as wifi, and Bluetooth use radio waves to transmit data.

Q3. How is FSO technology affected by weather conditions? Can it be used for long distances?

Fog, snow and rain can scatter the light beam resulting in low signal strength and communication disruption.