First Mile Access Networks and Enabling Technologies

FSO Operation

FSO systems use wavelengths around 850 nm and 1550 nm because of low loss of signals (atmospheric absorption) in that operating frequency window and also because of the abundant availability of industry standard components (transmitters and receivers). Unlike low-frequency microwave systems, FSO does not require operating licenses and is not regulated by regulatory bodies (such as the Federal Communications Commission [FCC] in the U.S.).

A rudimentary FSO system consists of an FSO transmitter and a receiver. FSO systems require line-of-sight communication (without any obstacles between the transmitter and receiver), and these systems are typically deployed in a point-to-point network. Figure 6-1 shows a typical FSO system.

Figure ...