The new system would be ideal for underwater data centers that need to connect with surface networks. The system uses various off-the-shelf components and a Raspberry Pi to act as a modem. (Image credit: KAUST)
With Wi-Fi readily available in our daily lives, it’s easy to take for granted how vital these connections are, especially underwater. Many underwater data centers depend on Wi-Fi to connect with the surface network infrastructure. But the strong signals required can be challenging to maintain underwater. Luckily, a research team from King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) have developed a two-way wireless data connection to use underwater.
Researchers built the system, dubbed Aqua-Fi, using lasers and off-the-shelf components, including a Raspberry Pi, to act as the modem. The system is compatible with existing 802.11 wireless standards to allow it to connect to the broader global internet reliably.
So how does it work? The Raspberry Pi converts the wireless signal into an optical signal that can be transmitted via laser. The signal is transmitted over the air to a buoy on the ocean’s surface. The Raspberry Pi then converts and transmits the data via blue and green lasers, which are sent to an optical receiver underwater, with a speed of 2.11 Mbps across a distance of 20 meters (around 66 feet).
Using the system, the team was able to have Skype calls and move files. Unfortunately, the Raspberry Pi couldn’t handle the lasers and burnt out. It’s a minor setback the team already has a solution for. They think this can be fixed by using a dedicated optical modem. But there’s still a bigger problem to face: dealing with the optical variation caused by currents and water movement.
The team already has a number of solutions to address the problem, including a two-laser system in which a low-powered plans a course for the more powerful data connection and is able to readjust orientation if a connection fails. They’re also considering a MIMO-like solution using a small array of receivers.
Despite its limitations, the system is a major win for underwater connections. It would be a big help for remote monitoring of sea life and coral reefs, which depend on high-definition videos. It could also come in handy for big companies like Microsoft, who are looking into building data centers offshore and underwater. Underwater datacenters may save money on cooling the equipment and the energy costs. If we start to see more of these underwater data centers, a strong, reliable internet connection is essential, and this new system may guarantee that.
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