FPGA-based media converter for FSO links

Abstract

The paper summarises basic principles of free-space optical (FSO) links and their applications. Further an experimental FSO platform is presented. Its main purpose is to demonstrate FSO benefits for last-mile interconnect solution, especially for end users. The realized FSO link transceiver based on FPGA is described in detail, including its expected performance characteristics. The main benefit of the proposed FSO link is its simplicity, low-cost design and protocol transparency. The transceiver uses a single Ethernet cable for both data transmission and power supply. This greatly simplifies and speeds up the link installation procedure. Finally, a pair of FSO transceivers with an integrated media converter were built and are currently in the process of testing.