Implementation concepts for a bridging protocol for the high data rate slow-fading Free-Space Optical Channel

Abstract

This paper addresses various aspects for designing and implementing a bridging protocol for reliable data transfer between two local area networks over the high data rate slow-fading free-space optical channel. First the service requirements of widely spread applications of today’s life like voice communication, video streaming or file transfer are given and the resulting constrains for data transfer protocols are compiled. Then, based on the physical characteristics of different communication scenarios and the compiled results, the feasibility of these services on optical free-space links is studied. Finally different protocol design aspects are discussed and an implementation concept for bridging data of different services over free-space optical links is presented.