Visible Light Communication

Visible Light Communication

Visible light communication (VLC) is a data communications medium using visible light between 400 THz (780 nm) and 800 THz (375 nm). Visible light is not injurious to vision.

The technology uses fluorescent lamps (ordinary lamps, not special communications devices) to transmit signals at 10 kbit/s, or LEDs for up to 500 Mbit/s. Low rate data transmissions at 1 kilometre (0.6 mi) and 2 kilometres (1.2 mi) were demonstrated. RONJA achieves full Ethernet speed (10 Mbit/s) over the same distance thanks to larger optics and more powerful LEDs.

Specially designed electronic devices generally containing a photodiode receive signals from such light sources, although in some cases a cell phone camera or a digital camera will be sufficient. The image sensor used in these devices is in fact an array of photodiodes (pixels) and in some applications its use may be preferred over a single photodiode. Such a sensor may provide either multi-channel communication (down to 1 pixel = 1 channel) or a spatial awareness of multiple light sources.

VLC can be used as a communications medium for ubiquitous computing, because light-producing devices (such as indoor/outdoor lamps, TVs, traffic signs, commercial displays, car headlights/taillights, etc.) are used everywhere.