High speed free-space optical communications

Abstract

High power, high speed VCSEL arrays are employed in unique configurations of arrays and sub-arrays. Placement of a VCSEL array behind a lens allows spatial separation and directivity. Diffusion may be employed to increase alignment tolerance. Intensity modulation may be performed by operating groups of VCSEL emitters at maximum bias. Optical communications networks with high bandwidth may employ angular, spatial, and / or wavelength multiplexing. A variety of network topologies and bandwidths suitable for the data center may be implemented. Eye safe networks may employ VCSEL emitters may be paired with optical elements to reduce optical power density to eye safe levels.

Description

[0001] Cross References to Related Applications [0002] This application claims priority to US Provisional Patent Application No. 61 / 528,119, filed August 26, 2011, and Provisional Application No. 61 / 671,036, filed July 12, 2012, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background technique [0003] The bandwidth at which data can be transmitted, and the range over which that data can be conveyed outdoors, has been dependent on technologies involving slower single or arrayed high-power semiconductor laser transmitters or combinations of such transmitters with optical modulators and / or optical amplifiers, Or by using multiple wavelengths in combination with the aforementioned components to achieve high bandwidth rates for free-space optical communication over distances beyond a few meters. To date, the complexity involved in implementing these technologies has become prohibitively costly, especially for the short distances measured in meters for local...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Likewise, single VCSEL devices are best suited for bandwidth and cost structures, but lack the power and margin alignment necessary to approach unachievable margins

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