Transmission via radio waves has one major disadvantage. Increasingly, we hear about overly crowded frequency bands, which does not allow for efficient Wi-Fi network operation. That is why 5G is also expected to work in new frequency bands. Another solution to this problem is to use light to send information. This is how Li-Fi technology works, which was developed by the pureLiFi company that Philips bought.
The principle of the Li-Fi network is quite simple. Classic wireless networks operate on the principle of modulating an electrical radio frequency signal that is radiated by the antenna. The receiver works in the analogous way. In the case of Li-Fi, the transmitted data modulates the light beam. The intensity change is done so often that it is imperceptible to the human eye. The receiver, on the other hand, is equipped with a sensitive photodetector that is able to detect these changes. The whole problem lies in the selection of appropriate components that will allow achieving high speed data transmission. Fortunately, the Li-Fi technology has already gone beyond the laboratory door. Philips tested it in one of the French office buildings.
Li-Fi currently offers 42 Mbps throughput
It is not too much, however pureLiFi representatives pay attention to another advantage of their solution. Light waves do not penetrate the walls, so they can provide secure data transmission, which is not susceptible to hacker attacks. So far, none of the manufacturers of laptops or smartphones have decided to implement Li-Fi natively in their products. Therefore, this technology requires connection of a dedicated dongle. I doubt that the Li-Fi networks operating in this way will replace the Wi-Fi present in our homes for years. That is why representatives of pureLiFi assume that the new solution will complement radio networks. Goodyear, who is working on a modern Oxygene tire equipped with Li-Fi, became interested in this idea. This technology would be applicable to communication between vehicles and road infrastructure. In contrast, Oledcom has prepared the LED MyLiFi desk lamp. In this case, the light would ensure a secure transmission of data.
Source: Digital Trends
