Eight-Channel Video Broadcast Feed Service using Free-Space Optical Wireless Technology at Sydney 2000 Olympic Games

摘要

Terrestrial 1550nm WDm free-space otpical communication systems have been demonstrated to provide a viable means to transport data, voice and video channels for point-to-point applications without the use of optical fiber. Key features of free-space optical transmission systems are their ability to utilize present day telecommunication components such as; laser diode transmitters, high-power optical amplifiers operating within the 1550nm optical transmission window and high-sensitivity optical recerivers designed for mutli-Giga-bit data rates. In this paper, we report on details of the world's first field test, demonstrating real time video transmission of eight uncompressed standard-definition (SD) video channels operating @ an aggregate data rate of 1.485Gb/s over a 0.89km terrestrial free-space link. This data link was used in support of the 2000 Olympic games held recently in Sydney, Australia. Results from this eight-channel SD terrestrial free-space laser communications system are presented. The transmission system operated error-free continuously from September 14, 2000 until October 1, 2000, twenty-four hours a day, throughout and coverage of the games. Modeling results predict that free-space SD video transmission systems can be designed and operated over significant link distances under nominal visibility conditions.