LiFi
LiFi (technology) | |
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Li-Fi, which stands for “light fidelity”, has the potential to be significantly faster than current WiFi systems and can turn everyday lamps into wireless internet access points.[1] |
LiFi is a wireless communication technology which utilises light to transmit data and position between devices. The term was first introduced by Harald Haas during a 2011 TED Talk in Edinburgh.[2]
Li-Fi is a light communication system that is capable of transmitting data at high speeds over the visible light, ultraviolet, and infrared spectrums. In its present state, only LED lamps can be used for the transmission of data in visible light.
In terms of its end user, the technology is similar to WiFi — the key technical difference being that Wi-Fi uses radio frequency to induce a voltage in an antenna to transmit data, whereas Li-Fi uses the modulation of light intensity to transmit data. Li-Fi is able to function in areas otherwise susceptible to electromagnetic interference (e.g. aircraft cabins, hospitals, or the military).[3]
Li-Fi is a derivative of optical wireless communications (OWC) technology, which uses light from light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as a medium to deliver network, mobile, high-speed communication in a similar manner to Wi-Fi. The Li-Fi market was projected to have a compound annual growth rate of 82% from 2013 to 2018 and to be worth over $6 billion per year by 2018. However, the market has not developed as such and Li-Fi remains with a niche market.[4]
References
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