Validation of a hybrid RF/FSO communication system under foggy weather conditions

Abstract

Abstract Future high-capacity data links are best suited for free space optical (FSO) communications since they have a larger bandwidth and secure transmission compared to RF links. FSO has several uses including indoor and outdoor settings. The impacts of weather are extensive, with fog being the main mitigating factor reducing link availability. The solution to the problem is to employ a hybrid network with RF/FSO and backup link. Different liquid water densities were used to analyze the performance of the hybrid RF/FSO system in foggy weather. In terms of BER, Q factor, and data rate, a comparison between RF and FSO lines is made. The findings demonstrated that in lower-medium of liquids with water density, the influence of fog weather on RF link is minimal. Under the same situations, an FSO link is useful as a backup link in higher liquid water density concentrations.