Performance analysis and enhancement of free space optical links for developing state-of-the art smart city framework

Abstract

In this paper, we have investigated and reported the performance of free-space optical (FSO) links operating in adverse atmospheric conditions. Since FSO links share operational similarity with fiber communication; hence, we believe that a cost-effective FSO framework can play a significant role in the transparent integration of high-speed network access backbones with the end-users. Different modulation formats, complemented with spatial diversity techniques, are discussed in this paper to strategize performance optimization of FSO links. Using bit error rate (BER) and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) as performance metrics, it was found that binary phase-shift keying (BPSK) qualifies as the best technique modulation technique delivering SNR gain of 10 dB over on–off keying (OOK) operating link under similar channel conditions. Further performance optimization was achieved using space diversity reception wherein SNR witnessed a gain of 3 dB gain over the single-channel FSO link. In terms of application, the proposed model can help in developing a citizen-centric smart city ecosystem that can support seamless communication between heterogeneous smart devices.