Assessing Free Space Optical Device Performance As A Function Of Environment Deployed At The University Of Wollongong In Dubai

Demand for data bandwidth networks has increased enormously in the IT business industries. Free Space Optics (FSO) is gaining popularity in the telecom and network enterprises and is now accepted as a functional, wireless, high-bandwidth access tool for network and telecom engineers. However, as of today, optical fiber cable technology is still preferred by the consumers due to the high data rates and high capacities in connecting data networks. Unfortunately, fiber optic cable based connection is not applicable in all situations, especially for long distance networks, as it needs under cable trenching. The FSO, however, has a lower cost compared to fiber optics technology and has a significantly shorter installation time. FSO is now considered a viable alternative to fiber for short-haul access distances of 4 km or less. FSO systems can be operated in a point-to-point mode to interconnect two locations or in a point-to-multipoint mode. In the past year, different types of communication system devices were deployed to connect the three UOWD buildings on its Knowledge Village campus, Dubai. The air-distance between the school buildings and the broadcast station is approximately 200 meters. To determine the performance of FSO links, Bandwidth and link availability were observed for the entire period of 2013 (Jan 1 to Dec 31). Link availability expressed in percentage in general defines the proportion of time a system is in full operational condition. The results of our investigation reveal that there are some atmospheric disturbances. The results also reveal that fog can have a considerable impact on the reliability of the FSO link.