Li-Fi: the new Wi-Fi?

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2020-08-05 08:00:29

Li-Fi: the new Wi-Fi? Li-Fi is the process of transmitting data via light waves rather than radio waves, and it’s applications include significantly faster connection and improved security Sending data by light, rather than electromagnetic waves, transforms efficiency and pretty much eliminates the costs of data transmission Imagine a form of data transfer which enabled you to download 18 HD films in just one second: welcome to Li-Fi.

Light Fidelity (Li-Fi), also known as VLC (Visible Light Communication) is a relatively new way of transmitting data wirelessly.

It uses light-emitting diodes from LED bulbs to transmit at high-speed (way faster than the eye can see). It’s similar to how a TV remote control works, encoding information in pulses, like a superfast form of morse code. That means no major installations or upheaval to infrastructure – simply adding a microchip to existing bulbs will work. It has the potential to revolutionise the way data is sent.

The visible light spectrum is 10,000 times bigger than the radio spectrum. So it’s up to 100 times faster than Wi-Fi, and has been recorded at 224 gigabits per second under laboratory conditions. It’s also a game-changer for pricing. Sending data by light, rather than electromagnetic waves, transforms efficiency and pretty much eliminates the costs of data transmission.