Optical data transmission using portable USB Li-Fi module (dongle)

Wireless communication has become an indispensable part of our lives. Currently, RF spectrum is the most popular means available and hence is crowded with devices such as microwave ovens, video devices, radar systems, radio navigation and many more. Due to which the RF spectrum is on the verge of exhaustion. Clearly, we need to look out for alternatives to transmit the data wirelessly. The most promising alternative seems to be Li-Fi (Light Fidelity) [5]. Li-Fi, an example of OWC (optical wireless communication) can transmit data at a very high rate, moreover it can overcome certain challenges faced by Wi-Fi. It uses the visible light spectrum which is 10,000 times larger than the entire radio frequency spectrum [1]. Li-Fi can transmit data underwater, in aircraft (ensuring smooth working of its surroundings) and petrochemical industries (where using RF spectrum can prove to be lethal). Also, the light waves are not able to penetrate through walls, thus making it most secured form of wireless communication [1]. We have made a portable prototype of device that can establish a wireless communication between two or more personal computers using visible light spectrum. The portable device is compact and can ensure secured data transmission between devices within a room.