A Survey of Hybrid Free Space Optics (FSO) Communication Networks to Achieve 5G Connectivity for Backhauling

Abstract

Increased capacity, higher data rate, decreased latency, and better service quality are examples of the primary objectives or needs that must be catered to in the near future, i.e., fifth-generation (5G) and beyond. To fulfil these needs, cellular network design must be drastically improved. The 5G cellular network design, huge multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology, and device-to-device communication are all highlighted in this comprehensive study. Hence, free-space optics (FSO) is a promising solution to address this field. However, FSO standalone is insufficient during turbulent weather conditions. FSO systems possess some limitations, such as being able to be disturbed by any interference between sender and receiver such as a flying bird and a tree, as it requires line-of-sight (LOS) connectivity. Moreover, it is sensitive to weather conditions; the FSO performance significantly decreases in bad weather conditions such as fog and snow; those factors deteriorate the performance of FSO. This paper conducts a systematic survey on the existing projects in the same area of research such as the hybrid FSO/Radio frequency (RF) communication system by listing each technique used for each model to achieve optimum performance in terms of data rate and Bit Error Rate (BER) to be implemented in 5G networks.

A Survey on Video Streaming for Next-Generation Vehicular Networks

“…In addition to its integration with currently deployed sub-6 GHz and mmWave frequency bands, THz can collaborate with 6G's Free Space Optical Communication (FSOC). FSOC, known for its cost-effectiveness, compactness, lightweight nature, and energy efficiency [270], taps into extensive unlicensed bandwidth, enabling a high data rate of transmission over considerable distances [271]. This characteristic makes it well suited for co-deployment with THz base stations [272].…”

OAM modes classification and demultiplexing via Fourier optical neural network

“…As a result, there is a reduced tolerance for alignment errors in systems utilizing OAM beams, necessitating more precise and sensitive alignment mechanisms to maintain effective communication. [42][43][44] Machine learning has become a pivotal technology in optics, [45][46][47][48][49][50] photonics, [51][52][53][54][55][56][57][58][59][60][61][62][63][64][65][66][67][68] and computer science. [69][70][71][72][73][74][75][76][77] This is evidenced by its applications in learning-based imaging and focusing through scattering mediums, as well as in computer-generated holography, where machine learning techniques have been effectively utilized.…”

Design and performance evaluation of a 350 m free space optical communications link for pico-macrocell backhauling

“…Applications of the FSOC technology are found in backhaul for wireless cellular networks, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), military surveillance, campus connectivity, disaster recovery, inter-satellite communication, and high altitude platforms (HAPs), among others [6], [7]. Albeit of the positive merits of the FSOC technology, it is adversely affected along the atmospheric channel by the impact of atmospheric turbulences induced by scintillation, challenging weather conditions of fog, rainfall, snow and haze, and pointing errors/misalignment caused by building sways or mechanical vibrations between transceiver [8].…”