Packet testing in free-space optical communication links over water

摘要

NRL's Chesapeake Bay lasercom test facility (LCTF) offers a variety of ranges for researching free-space optical laser communication (FSO lasercom) links in a maritime environment. This paper discusses link performance over the 16 km one-way range at the LCTF. There are several methods to determine the link quality in FSO lasercom. Bit-error-rate (BER) testing and packet testing are two possible methods. Since errors generally tend to occur in bursts in FSO channels, packet testing may offer a better indication of the quality of service (QoS) rather than BER testing. Link performance measured via packet testing is being investigated in a variety of atmospheric conditions. Results of these experiments will be presented.