Free-space optical communication using mid-infrared or solar-blind ultraviolet sources and detectors

Ryan McClintock; Abbas Haddadi; Manijeh Razeghi

doi:10.1117/12.913980

20 January 2012 Free-space optical communication using mid-infrared or solar-blind ultraviolet sources and detectors

Ryan McClintock, Abbas Haddadi, Manijeh Razeghi

Proceedings Volume 8268, Quantum Sensing and Nanophotonic Devices IX; 826810 (2012) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.913980
Event: SPIE OPTO, 2012, San Francisco, California, United States

Abstract

Free-space optical communication is a promising solution to the "last mile" bottleneck of data networks. Conventional near infrared-based free-space optical communication systems suffer from atmospheric scattering losses and scintillation effects which limit the performance of the data links. Using mid-infrared, we reduce the scattering and thus can improve the quality of the data links and increase their range. Because of the low scattering, the data link cannot be intercepted without a complete or partial loss in power detected by the receiver. This type of communications provides ultra-high bandwidth and highly secure data transfer for both short and medium range data links. Quantum cascade lasers are one of the most promising sources for mid-wavelength infrared sources and Type-II superlattice photodetectors are strong candidates for detection in this regime. The same way that that low scattering makes mid-wavelength infrared ideal for secure free space communications, high scattering can be used for secure short-range free-space optical communications. In the solar-blind ultraviolet (< 280 nm) light is strongly scattered and absorbed. This scattering makes possible non-line-of-sight free-space optical communications. The scattering and absorption also prevent remote eavesdropping. III-Nitride based LEDs and photodetectors are ideal for non-line-of-sight free-space optical communication.

Citation Download Citation

Ryan McClintock, Abbas Haddadi, and Manijeh Razeghi "Free-space optical communication using mid-infrared or solar-blind ultraviolet sources and detectors", Proc. SPIE 8268, Quantum Sensing and Nanophotonic Devices IX, 826810 (20 January 2012); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.913980

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