Integration of Free Space Optics with Fiber Optics

Abstract

This thesis presents a comprehensive survey on the importance of free space optical systems used as last mile for communication systems and their integration with optical fibers. Optical fiber is already being used in the backbone networks due to its high speed and high bandwidth qualities but the last mile has always been a problem. Last mile is the last physical connection between access network and the end user. Free space optical sys tems provide an innovative solution to this problem. The surveyed integration techniques are explained with their working principles. All the nodes used to make this integration possible are also thoroughly explained. The experimental setups of several techniques to perform this integration are also explained. These setups also include recently proposed methods and ideas to overcome the problems due to attenuation and no direct line of sight. The advantages and disadvantages of FSO systems are also listed and discussed. We also discuss current challenges and future research directions.