Free space optical communication for tactical operations
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Authors
Lai, Jin Wei
Subjects
free space optics
communications
computer science
networking
laser communications
communications
computer science
networking
laser communications
Advisors
Gibson, John H.
Singh, Gurminder
Date of Issue
2016-09
Date
Sep-16
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
The increasing demand for data bandwidth is a present and relevant issue for communications. Military communications further require secure connections for data transfer. The Free Space Optical (FSO) communication system, with its ability to connect at a high data rate, offers an appealing solution to the current need. Using laser technology and transmitting at a wavelength invisible to the human eye, FSO is difficult to detect and intercept, providing a highly secure means of communication. However, it faces the limitation of being a strictly line-of-sight communication technology and is known to be greatly affected by atmospheric attenuation. This thesis documents three experiments involving FSO technology, including the process of the experiment preparations, laser-related hazard assessment, and implementation of a standard procedure to mitigate any possible risk. The contribution of this thesis is the acknowledgment that this proposed process is feasible. Experiments were conducted on an SA Photonics NEXUS 3 FSO Communications System. From the gathered results, the system was assessed to provide high throughput and low frame loss. Our work also ascertains that FSO is a technology that can become the next-generation means of military communications. Specifically, our findings indicate that the NEXUS has potential and merits further testing and development for military communications.
Type
Thesis
Description
Naval Research Program Project
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Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
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Copyright is reserved by the copyright owner.