Availability simulation of Switch over for FSO and MMW

Abstract

Free Space Optics (FSO) links get attraction due to high bandwidth and the flexibility of wireless communication links. However weather patterns like fog and heavy snow fall effect the availability of FSO. Microwave links operating at 40-43 GHz can be considered as back up link due to similar properties regarding offered data rates and flexibility of set up. However rain limits microwave link availability. Redundant use of these links has proved as highly available high bandwidth wireless connection. But it needs redundant transmission on back up link of microwave even when FSO link is available. In this paper a switch over between these links has been proposed. Its performance has been simulated for one year measured availability data for these links.