2. Opening prompt interest
Today’s work environment,
especially multi-site businesses,
require more and more fast link
connection including internet and
available anywhere and anytime.
It is crucial to have the right
technology to ensure proper
transaction operation and
information exchange
3. Definition
Free-Space Optics, in short FSO, is a wireless broadband
technology that uses modulated laser light in the infrared range to
transmit data, voice and video on point to point links.
FSO works on range between 200 meters and 4 KMs in general.
4. The technology
Free-Space Optics has been on the market for many years and
from its early development, its potential was uncontestable.
But due to adverse atmospheric conditions, FSO was not very
reliable. Meanwhile, recent improvement in its link availability and
relatively cheaper cost is taking FSO to the next level.
5. Overview of the devices
(from left to right, CableFree and fSona FSO)
6. Facts
Various wired and wireless technologies (copper wire, Fiber
optics, satellite) provide efficiently connectivity .
In some cases, due to the presence of major roads, natural
obstacles like rivers and mountains the fiber optics cable and other
wired links do not cover all areas.
7. Free-Space Optics links
Free-Space Optics can be deployed to keep the provided
bandwidth to broadband customers as high as possible at relatively
cheaper cost in specific applications.
8. FSO and weather conditions
As it is for any other wireless technology, FSO is affected mainly
by fog, then rain and scintillation.
A good wireless link planning can overcome these challenges
efficiently.
9. FSO applications
“Last mile” connectivity
LAN extension
Backhaul links
Back-up for fiber optics links
10. Advantages of FSO
High bandwidth beyond 1 Gbps
Unlicensed wireless technology
Rapid installation and easy maintenance
No recurrent fees
Very secure communication technology
Carrier-class availability
Low latency
11. Legal issues
Free-Space Optics uses unlicensed band of frequencies in the near
infra red. Deployment does not require any license payment but
the product, due to its type, needs to be approved by the ARCT
(Agence de Régulation et de Contrôle des Télécommunications au
Burundi).
12. Environmental issues
FSO presents no danger on the environment, but rather presents
advantages. FSO is also called fiber through air due to the
resemblance and high bandwidth capabilities up to 10 Gbps.
13. Safety use of equipments
Laser eye safety standards set in different classes are used to
prevent any harm to the user of Free-Space Optics.
14. FSO Cost
Based on CableFree equipments, FSO cost can vary from around
USD 6,300 for 100 Mbps, 200 meters link to USD 27,000 for a 1
Gbps, 2 KMs link.
