Subject: RE: To all: inre to brokages
From EDIGlong
PostID 249370 On Thursday, April 24, 2003 (EST) at 9:55:10 AM
Response To: rwrf PostID 249360
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What Is An Infra Red Data Transmission System ?
Free Space Optical communication systems are wireless connections through the atmosphere communicating by light wave transmission. Infra red systems work basically the same as fiber optic cable except the beam is transmitted through open space rather than glass fiber. The carrier used for the transmission of this signal is infra red and is generated by either a high power LED or a laser diode. The systems operate by taking a standard data or telecommunications signal, converting it into a digital format and transmitting it through free space. Infra red is well suited for communicating at high data rates and is a cost effective solution for satisfying the increasing bandwidth requirements of high performance networks.
Is It a Proven Technology ?
Over the last few years the product range has grown to include systems that can satisfy a number of applications that include LAN/Network connections, PABX extension, last mile connection to metropolitan fiber rings and PCS and cellular traffic backhaul. ICS has installed products for customers in every major market in North America and around the world, in a wide variety of different climates and applications. US customers include Sprint PCS, Nextel, Boeing Aerospace, New York City, US Department of Defense and many more.
Are These Laser Systems Infra Red ?
Laser systems operate in the infrared region of the light spectrum. The laser light transmitted across the link is at a wavelength of 780nm and 980nm.
What Is The Data Rate And Throughput ?
Infrared systems provide full channel speeds from T-1 (1.544Mbps,DS-1) to 1.25 Gigabit Ethernet. Our systems deliver uncompressed data rates at full duplex and they are transparent to the network.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Laser Communication Technology ?
Full channel speeds
No license requirements
No right of way permits required
Highly secure
Compatible with copper or fiber interfaces
No bridge or router requirements
Cost-effective, rapid pay back
No recurring line costs
Internal or external mounting
Excellent availability
Fully portable
Resistant to temperature and climatic changes
Zero latency over all distances
Transparent to networks or protocols
Are Special Permits Or Licenses Required ?
No. There are no requirements for FCC licenses, radio interference studies or right of way permits. The result is one of the many advantages of using infrared, rapid installation.
How Much Maintenance Or Adjustment Is Required ?
When installed correctly, infra red transmission systems require very little maintenance, however, an annual maintenance contract is suggested. ICS Certified Dealers provide pre-install site survey, installation and on-site maintenance services.
How Easily Can Infra Red Systems Be Installed ?
The units are light and easily installed. They must be firmly fixed to a rigid structure to minimize movement. Normal installations take less than one day.
How Secure Is Laser Based Communication ?
Laser transmission is quite secure for several reasons.
Laser transmission has a narrow optical beam path which is not accessible unless viewing directly into the transmitter path. Any potential eavesdropping will result in an interruption of the data transmission, which alerts your personnel.
The existence of laser beams cannot be detected with spectrum analyzers or RF meters.
Various proprietary transmission protocols are used which provide additional security.
Laser systems have been used for many diverse applications requiring confidential communications including financial, medical and military networking.
What About Performance Availability ?
When correctly installed infrared laser transmission links can achieve an operational availability of 99.9% plus.
Can Infra Red Systems Transmit Through Glass ?
Infra red systems can transmit through glass, however, the physical properties of the glass including reflective coatings need to be considered and applications need to be evaluated carefully and on a case by case basis. Please contact ICS to discuss your application.
Can Infra Red Systems Be Used For Temporary Or Back Up Use ?
Yes. The units weigh a maximum of 29 pounds and can be simply relocated as required. Laser links are ideal for rapid deployment, moving as you relocate, providing service when faced with cable installation delays, disaster recovery for cable cuts by backhoes, or for occasional use.
Do These Systems Create A Safety Hazard ?
All systems utilize a single broad area, wide-divergence beam (in both directions) and meet FDA/CDRH Class 3b laser classification. All systems are Class 3b, safe for unintentional viewing with the naked eye, directly at the faceplate. IEC: All systems are Class 1M safe for viewing with the naked eye, directly at the faceplate. All laser safety compliance documentation is externally compiled by expert sources. Copies of laser safety certification documentation are available on request.
What Types of Applications Does Infra Red Laser Transmission Fit ?
The world wide user base is wide and varied. There is no one key factor other than the need to efficiently and cost effectively transfer information between sites at high speed. Users currently include: hospitals, power stations, manufacturing, retailers, educational institutions, private medical facilities, banking, airport, motor racing, military, telecommunication utilities, Internet providers, and more.
