Key Benefits of TI Analog Mirrors in Free Space Optical Communication

• A wide mechanical range per axis enables laser-based communication links within an adjustable field of view.
• Optical surfaces up to 9 mm2 offer highly focused spot sizes and flexible optics designs.
• 13-bit integrated position sensors provide high resolution optical feedback control for continuous hub-to-satellite connections.

System designers use free space optics (FSO) to create optical networks consisting of multiple satellites linked to a main network hub through open-air laser communication links. Like other wireless technologies, the lack of cables in free space optical networks allows fast reconfiguration and less equipment to maintain in dynamic environments such as in electronics sales floors or outside entertainment venues. Laser-based communication links offer advantages over other wireless technologies because their connections are high speed and based on line-of-sight. It is more difficult for others to intercept or interfere with line-of-sight network connections, resulting in secure and dedicated high-speed bandwidth even in dense broadcast environments.

Within a free space optics application, the laser beam steering capability of TI Analog Pointing Mirrors allows each satellite and network hub to initiate a communication link as shown in the diagram below. To maintain a robust communication link, the integrated 13-bit position sensor enables continuous feedback control, and the large optical surface provides a highly focused spot size. Check out the TALP1000B product details for an example of a TI Analog Mirror suitable for this application.