(Left) Concept for the system. (Right) "in-use" PR image. Useful wherever lights are available, it seems (via Fraunhofer Heinrich Hertz Institute)
With the plethora of new devices all network, ready to add to the growing Internet of Things, what else can we tag with an internet ready sticker? Better yet, what type of devices can be created to innovatively provide internet access? LED light bulbs, according to the Fraunhofer Heinrich Hertz Institute, which has further advanced its Visible Light Communication (VLC) technology to boost the ability to receive up 3Gbps of data throughput rate from a standard, off-the-shelf, LED bulb.
FHHI, an industry leader in mobile broadband communication systems, previously achieved data rates of 800 Mbps using standard LED bulbs back in 2011. This time ‘round, the institute has upgraded their transmission system with patent pending components that have achieved up to 1 Gbps data rates per light frequency - standard LED bulbs generally operate under a three frequency, RGB design, hence the 3 Gbps data throughput. The new technology also makes use of the 180 MHz frequency band rather than the old 30 MHz band; the higher frequency band provides added data transmission speeds that help the system top Google Fiber’s expected 1 Gbps rates.
Though the ability to sit under an LED light and experience high-speed, seamlessly accessible internet speeds, the technology only functions in one direction - it’s great for streaming, but uploading is not yet possible. Nonetheless, the optical wireless solution to networking will be an asset to environments where radio communication is problematic or short-range point and shoot data transmission is needed. And not to mention their must be light wherever the system is used; so, you can expect the tech to find use in large lit halls, trade shows, medical environments, and public transportation network systems such as overhead airplane cabin internet access at the flip of a switch. It has even been mentioned that FHHI’s system may be able to extend indoor access to GPS data, and to create transportation systems that can communicate with vehicles on the road.
The group will be showcasing their new technology at FOE 2013 later this year. For more information, follow this link to read more on FHHI’s Visible Light Communication system.
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