Free space optics in different (civil and military) application scenarios in combination with other wireless technologies

Abstract

In this paper Free Space Optics (FSO) in combination with other wireless technologies (including WLAN and satellite communications in civil-military-cooperation (CIMIC)) is presented. At first modular communication systems are shown, which allows worldwide access to the Internet or other networks by combining satellite communications, FSO, Wireless LAN, Local Multipoint Distribution System (LMDS) and DVB-T (terrestrial digital video broadcast). Wireless LAN offers connectivity to mobile users in a network cell, Free Space Optics allows quick installation of broadband fixed wireless links instead of cables and satellite communications provides a backbone between distant locations in the world. DVB-T is the current video broadcast standard (instead of former analogue TV) and will also be used for Internet-access (see project SEE TV-WEB). Different scenarios (and results) using modular wireless technologies are shown. Free Space Optics and wireless applications (including satellite) installed at a civil-military exercise in Styria (southern part of Austria) and other application scenarios are presented. In this civil-military cooperation a mobile satellite earth station (equipped with FSO and Wireless LAN) was used for videoconferencing between military and civil organizations. Applications with DVB-T will supplement a few scenarios in combining wireless technologies with FSO.