Free-Space Optical Communications - Standardisation Issues

In the meantime, Optical Wireless is a well-established Communication Technology. In this talk, Free Space Optics (FSO) is considered within the focus of regulations and standardisation-bodies for future applications. The FSO-Technology is compared to other Communication Technologies (including wireless technologies, like WLAN and satellite communications) regarding those aspects. ITU, IEC, and IEEE International standards for Free-Space Optical links will be reviewed. Emphasis will be put to co-existence and compatibility of neighbouring systems, propagation atmospheric conditions, visible light communications, and laser safety issues.