The technology that transfers data from light waves is called Li-Fi, which stands for Light Fidelity. This is a type of wireless internet technology that is transmitted through light waves.
Today, we will provide information about what Li-Fi technology is, how it is different from Wi-Fi technology, why it is needed, and how it can be used. In general, Li-Fi is a wireless communication technology that uses light to transmit data. The internet is also a means of data transfer. We rely on Wi-Fi radio waves to transmit data. That is, data can be transmitted through Wi-Fi radio waves.
However, there are some limitations to radio waves. The speed of radio waves is slowed down after reaching a certain point. As our need for high-speed internet increases in the ever-changing time, high-speed internet is necessary. This is the reason why Li-Fi technology has been introduced to supplement it.
History of Li-Fi technology
Li-Fi technology was proposed by Professor Harald Haas for the first time in 2011. Since then, there has been a lot of focus on Li-Fi technology as a potential option for Wi-Fi.
How does Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) technology work?
Wi-Fi is a wireless networking technology that allows devices to connect to the internet and communicate with each other without the need for cables or wires. Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) operates using radio waves, which are transmitted and received by wireless routers, access points, and devices such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets. Wi-Fi technology has become widely popular and is used in homes, businesses, public spaces, and other settings where wireless connectivity is needed.
How does Li-Fi technology work?
Just as a router, fiber cable, or other device is necessary to use the internet via Wi-Fi technology, similarly, various devices are also necessary for using the Li-Fi technology
- Light source
A light source is necessary to provide light in a room or on the internet. The use of LED lights is particularly important as they can provide high-frequency modulation that allows for data transfer.
- Data encoding
To transfer data, it is encoded in modulated light signals. Techniques such as on-off keying (OOK), frequency shift keying (FSK), or phase shift keying (PSK) are used for data encoding.
- Transmission
Once the data is encoded in modulated light signals, it is transmitted from the LED light source. The signal is then received by a photodetector. Photodetectors are devices that can detect the light waves carrying the data. They can identify the light waves carrying the data.
- Decoding
The received modulated light signals are then converted back into the original data by the photodetector. During the decoding process, various signal processing techniques are used to transform the signal so that it can be converted back into the original data.
- Data processing
Once the data has been decoded, the processed data is sent to the appropriate device. During data processing, any weaknesses in the data are improved, and data manipulation and decryption are performed.
- Receiver
In the section where all the calculations are completed, only the relevant device will be connected to the internet. After that, a similar experience to internet can be obtained in this by connecting to Wi-Fi in the usual way. Then, using the rays of light that come from the LED light, data can be transmitted at high speeds.
Differences between Wi-Fi and Li-Fi technology
| Feature | WiFi | LiFi |
|---|---|---|
| Technology | Radio Waves | Visible Light Waves |
| Speed | Up to 10 Gbps (theoretical max) | Up to 224 Gbps (lab conditions) |
| Range | Several hundred feet | Up to 100 feet |
| Interference | Can be affected by obstacles and other wireless signals | Not affected by other wireless signals, but can be blocked by obstacles |
| Security | Encryption protocols available, but susceptible to hacking | More secure due to the directional nature of light and the inability to penetrate solid objects |
| Radiation | May emit harmful electromagnetic radiation, which can have negative health effects | Doesn't emit harmful radiation, and is safer for human health |
| Cost | Generally less expensive | More expensive, as specialized LED bulbs are required for data transfer |
| Availability | Widely available | Still in development |
Benefits of Li-Fi Technology
Although Wi-Fi technology is widely used, it has certain limitations and weaknesses. This is where Li-Fi technology comes into play. The main feature of Li-Fi technology is its speed. Tests have shown that the average internet speed of Li-Fi is 100 times faster than the average speed of Wi-Fi. The following are some benefits of Li-Fi technology:
6 Benefits of LiFi
- Security
Compared to Wi-Fi, Li-Fi technology is considered much safer and more secure. Since the rays of light that come from LED lights do not go outside the room, it prevents unauthorized access to the network.
- Radiation
Li-Fi technology does not have as much effect on human health as the radiation that comes from Wi-Fi. However, negative effects of radiation from Li-Fi can also occur in small amounts. Since Li-Fi technology does not emit harmful electromagnetic radiation, it has no negative effect on health.
- Range
Li-Fi technology only works within a limited range. This means that the internet only works where the rays of light from the LED light reach. Therefore, Li-Fi technology is suitable for small places like homes or offices.
- Reliability
Since Li-Fi technology operates through a different frequency band than Wi-Fi, the possibility of interference is reduced. This means that Li-Fi technology can be more reliable than Wi-Fi, especially in places with high levels of electromagnetic interference.
- Organic Effect
Compared to Wi-Fi technology, Li-Fi technology has a lower impact on the environment. Specifically, because it does not include radio waves, it poses less of a hindrance to wildlife or environmental systems.
- High-speed Data Transfer Rate
In comparison to Wi-Fi, Li-Fi has a much faster data transfer rate.
Despite various benefits, there are some drawbacks to Li-fi technology. In particular, data transmission through visible light means we have to rely on the light emitted by LEDs for extended periods of time. In addition, there are various other limitations to Li-fi technology.
Disadvantages of LI-Fi
- Limited range:
The Wi-Fi technology can only operate within a limited range. A Wi-Fi connection that is set up in one room of a house cannot be accessed in another room on the same floor. This is because the internet connection must be received through the LED light of the same room.
- Line-of-sight connection
A line-of-sight connection is necessary for Wi-Fi technology to work. This means that the transmitter and receiver must be on the same line. This can be challenging because the signal can be obstructed by walls or furniture in the home.
- Other light sources can interfere
If there are other light sources in the room where Wi-Fi technology is being used, such as sunlight or other light fixtures, they can interfere with the transmission of data. This can cause interruptions in the data transfer.
- Expensive
Wi-Fi technology is a new type of technology, and it is more expensive compared to Wi-Fi technology.
Conclusion
Li-Fi technology offers a new way of wireless communication that uses light waves to transmit data. Compared to Wi-Fi, Li-Fi technology has several benefits such as faster internet speed, better security, lower impact on the environment, and higher reliability. However, Li-Fi technology also has its limitations such as a limited range, line-of-sight connection, susceptibility to interference from other light sources, and higher cost.
Despite these drawbacks, Li-Fi technology is an exciting innovation that could potentially revolutionize the way we use the internet in the future. With ongoing research and development, Li-Fi technology may become a more viable alternative to Wi-Fi technology in various applications.