0% found this document useful (0 votes)
20 views

LIFI TECHNOLOGY

The seminar report explores Li-Fi technology, a wireless communication method that utilizes light waves for data transmission, presenting advantages such as high speed, security, and reduced interference compared to traditional Wi-Fi. The document outlines the technology's background, objectives, and potential applications across various sectors, including healthcare and smart homes. It also discusses the challenges and limitations of Li-Fi, emphasizing its role in advancing wireless communication systems.
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
0% found this document useful (0 votes)
20 views

LIFI TECHNOLOGY

The seminar report explores Li-Fi technology, a wireless communication method that utilizes light waves for data transmission, presenting advantages such as high speed, security, and reduced interference compared to traditional Wi-Fi. The document outlines the technology's background, objectives, and potential applications across various sectors, including healthcare and smart homes. It also discusses the challenges and limitations of Li-Fi, emphasizing its role in advancing wireless communication systems.
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 26

SEMNAR REPORT

ON

LI-FI TECHNOLOGY

BY

OMOLE TEMITOPE MOSES NCSF/23/0026

ESSIEN SAVIOUR ONYEDIKACHUKWU NCSF/23/0161

ADEYOLOYE ELIZABETH OLOLADE NCSF/23/0022

EZERIBE CHIBUEZE MIRACLE NCSF/23/0021

FALADE COMFORT BLESSING


NCSF/23/0033

A SEMINAR SUBMITTED

TO THE DEPARTMENT OF COMPUTER SCIENCE, SCHOOL OF PURE AND


APPLIED SCIENCE, OGUN STATE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY, IGBESA

IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE AWARD OF NATIONAL DIPLOMA (ND)

SUPERVISOR: MRS ACHORI B.T

March, 2025.

i|Page
CERTIFICATION

This is to certify that this seminar work; COMPUTER CASE is carried out by OMOLE
TEMITOPE MOSES; NCSF/23/0026, ESSIEN SAVIOUR ONYEDIKACHUKWU;
NCSF/23/0161, ADEYOLOYE ELIZABETH OLOLADE; NCSF/23/0022, EZERIBE
CHIBUEZE MIRACLE; NCSF/23/0021, FALADE COMFORT BLESSING;
NCSF/23/0033, in the department of computer science in partial fulfillment of the Award of
National Diploma (ND)

________________________ ______________

Mrs Achori B.T Date


Supervisor

________________________ _______________

Mrs. Ojo A.I Date

Head of Department

ii | P a g e
DEDICATION

This seminar research work is dedicated to God Almighty, the Alpha and Omega

iii | P a g e
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

We will not do without acknowledging the hands and wondrous works of Almighty God in our
lives and this seminar research work. All glory to God.

We also want to appreciate our parents and siblings for their support in prayers, financially and
moral support

We would also like to thank Mrs Achori, my supervisor and the HOD for the mentoring
guidance I received in the course of this research work.

iv | P a g e
TABLE OF CONTENT

Cover Page

Certification Page

Dedication

Acknowledgement

Table of Content

Abstract
CHAPTER ONE: INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

1.2 Statement of Problem

1.3 Aim and Objectives

1.4 Significance of the study

1.5 Scope of the Project

1.6 Definition of Terms

CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Overview of related work

2.2 Discussion of existing solutions

2.3 challenges in current solutions

2.4 Related works

CHAPTER THREE: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction

3.2 Architectural Design

3.3 Explanation of the design process

v|Page
3.4 Description of any software tools

3.5 Experimental setup and procedures

CHAPTER FOUR: SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

4.1 Summary

4.2 Conclusion

Reference

vi | P a g e
ABSTRACT
Li-Fi (Light Fidelity) is an emerging wireless communication technology that uses light waves to
transmit data, offering a promising alternative to traditional Wi-Fi. Unlike Wi-Fi, which relies on
radio frequency signals, Li-Fi uses visible light, infrared, or ultraviolet light to enable high-
speed, secure, and energy-efficient data transmission. This project explores the potential of Li-Fi
technology in revolutionizing communication networks, focusing on its ability to provide faster,
more reliable, and interference-free connectivity compared to existing wireless solutions. The
project will examine the technical aspects of Li-Fi, including the underlying principles of light-
based communication, optical components, and the design of Li-Fi-enabled devices. Key areas of
focus will include system integration, data transmission rates, range, and the challenges of
scaling Li-Fi for widespread use. Additionally, the project will assess the practical applications
of Li-Fi in various sectors such as healthcare, smart homes, education, and urban infrastructure,
where high-speed data transfer and secure communication are critical. By conducting
experiments, simulations, and performance analysis, the project aims to demonstrate the potential
of Li-Fi as a viable alternative to current wireless technologies. The results will provide insights
into the advantages and limitations of Li-Fi and contribute to advancing the development of more
efficient, sustainable, and secure wireless communication systems in the future.

vii | P a g e
CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the study

Li-Fi (also written as LiFi) is a wireless communication technology which utilizes light to
transmit data and position between devices. The term was first introduced by Harald Haas during
a 2011 TEDGlobal talk in Edinburgh. LiFi (light fidelity) is a bidirectional wireless system that
transmits data via LED or infrared light. It was first unveiled in 2011 and, unlike wifi, which
uses radio frequency, LiFi technology only needs a light source with a chip to transmit an
internet signal through light waves. (Sherman Joshua, 2013)

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. (Haas Harald, 2011)

In terms of its end user, the technology is similar to Wi-Fi – the key technical difference being
that Wi-Fi uses radio frequency to induce an electric tension 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).

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.[6]

Visible light communications (VLC) works by switching the current to the LEDs off and on at a
very high speed, beyond the human eye's ability to notice. Technologies that allow roaming
between various Li-Fi cells, also known as handover, may allow to seamlessly transition between
Li-Fi. The light waves cannot penetrate walls which translates to a much shorter range, and a

1|Page
lower hacking potential, relative to Wi-Fi. Direct line of sight is not always necessary for Li-Fi to
transmit a signal and light reflected off walls can achieve 70 Mbit/s. (Vincent James, 2013)

Li-Fi can potentially be useful in electromagnetic sensitive areas without


causing electromagnetic interference. Both Wi-Fi and Li-Fi transmit data over
the electromagnetic spectrum, but whereas Wi-Fi utilizes radio waves, Li-Fi uses visible,
ultraviolet, and infrared light. Researchers have reached data rates of over 224 Gbit/s, which was
much faster than typical fast broadband in 2013. Li-Fi is expected to be ten times cheaper than
Wi-Fi. The first commercially available Li-Fi system was presented at the 2014 Mobile World
Congress in Barcelona (Vincent James, 2013).

1.2 Aim and Objectives

The aim of the study is to allow us to connect to the internet using light from lamps, streetlights
or LED televisions.

While the objectives are as follows below:

i. To provide ultra-fast data transfer rates, much higher than current Wi-Fi technologies,
potentially reaching gigabit-per-second speeds.
ii. Since light cannot pass through walls, Li-Fi signals are more secure, reducing the risk of
external interception compared to radio frequency (RF)-based communication systems
like Wi-Fi.
iii. With the increasing demand for bandwidth, Li-Fi leverages the vast and underutilized
visible light spectrum, which is significantly broader than the radio frequency spectrum
used by Wi-Fi, thereby helping to reduce congestion.

1.3 Features of Li-Fi Technology

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.

1.4 Advantages of Li-Fi Technology

2|Page
i. Speed & Bandwidth: LiFi can deliver multiple Gbps speeds in mobile devices. This next
generation technology will drive wireless beyond any current capability, opening up
unprecedented bandwidth.
ii. Military Grade Security: Light can be contained, and secured in a physical space. LiFi
enables additional control as LiFi offers precise localisation for asset tracking and user
authentication.
iii. No Congestion: LiFi doesn't suffer from the same congestion and poor effects from multi
user degradation as WiFi and other RF technologies
iv. Reliability: LiFi provides enhanced reliability enabling interference-free communications
and 1000 times the data density, dramatically improving the user experience.
v. Low Latency: LiFi currently offers latency by a factor of three times lower than Wi-Fi
and can radically enable innovation, automation, and applications such as AR and VR.
vi. Interference Free: RF is vulnerable to interference from a wide range of devices such as
cordless phones, microwaves and neighbouring Wi-Fi networks.

1.5 Disadvantages of Li-Fi Technology

Although Li-Fi LEDs would have to be kept on to transmit data, they could be dimmed to below
human visibility while still emitting enough light to carry data. This is also a major bottleneck of
the technology when based on the visible spectrum, as it is restricted to the illumination purpose
and not ideally adjusted to a mobile communication purpose, given that other sources of light,
for example the sun, will interfere with the signal.

Since Li-Fi's short wave range is unable to penetrate walls, transmitters would need to be
installed in every room of a building to ensure even Li-Fi distribution. The high installation costs
associated with this requirement to achieve a level of practicality of the technology is one of the
potential downsides.

1. 6 Definition of terms

Li-Fi (Light Fidelity): A wireless communication technology that uses light to transmit data, as
an alternative to traditional radio frequency-based systems like Wi-Fi. It utilizes visible light,
ultraviolet (UV), or infrared (IR) light to transfer data.

3|Page
LED (Light Emitting Diode): A semiconductor light source used in Li-Fi technology to
transmit data. LEDs are efficient, energy-saving, and capable of being modulated at high speeds,
making them ideal for data transmission.

Modulation: The process of varying a signal (in this case, light) to encode data. In Li-Fi, LEDs
can rapidly turn on and off, creating pulses of light that transmit data at high speeds.

Visible Light Spectrum: The range of electromagnetic radiation that can be detected by the
human eye (approximately 400–700 nm in wavelength). Li-Fi primarily uses the visible light
spectrum to transfer data.

Infrared Light: A type of light with wavelengths longer than visible light (approximately 700
nm to 1 mm). Infrared can also be used for data transmission in Li-Fi technology.

Ultraviolet Light: Light with wavelengths shorter than visible light (approximately 10 nm to
400 nm). It can be used for data transmission in certain applications of Li-Fi.

Data Transmission Rate (Bandwidth): The amount of data that can be transferred in a given
time frame, typically measured in bits per second (bps). Li-Fi can achieve high data transmission
rates, often in gigabits per second (Gbps).

Receiver: A device that detects the light signal emitted by the LED transmitter and converts it
back into an electrical signal that can be processed by a device like a computer or smartphone.

Optical Receiver: A component in Li-Fi technology that detects light signals. It typically
consists of a photodiode or a light sensor that converts the light signal into an electrical signal for
processing.

Photodetector: A sensor that detects light and converts it into an electrical signal. In Li-Fi
systems, photodetectors are used as part of the receiver to capture the modulated light signals.

Infrared Communication: A form of communication that uses infrared light for data transfer. In
Li-Fi, IR is sometimes used for short-range communication where visible light might not be
appropriate.

4|Page
CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 History of Li-Fi Technology


The initial research on Visible Light Communication (VLC) was published by the Fraunhofer
Heinrich-Hertz-Institute in September 2009, showcasing data rates of 125 Mbit/s over a 5 m
distance using a standard white LED. In 2010, transmission rates were already increased to 513
Mbit/s using the DMT modulation format.

During his 2011 TED Global Talk, Professor Harald Haas, a Mobile Communications expert at
the University of Edinburgh, introduced the term "Li-Fi" while discussing the concept of
"wireless data from every light". (Haas Harald, 2011)

The general term "visible light communication" (VLC), whose history dates back to the 1880s,
includes any use of the visible light portion of the electromagnetic spectrum to transmit
information. The D-Light project, funded from January 2010 to January 2012 at Edinburgh's
Institute for Digital Communications, was instrumental in advancing this technology, with Haas
also contributing to the establishment of a company for its commercialization.

In October 2011, the Fraunhofer IPMS research organization and industry partners formed
the Li-Fi Consortium, to promote high-speed optical wireless systems and to overcome the
limited amount of radio-based wireless spectrum available by exploiting a completely different
part of the electromagnetic spectrum.

The practical demonstration of VLC technology using Li-Fi took place in 2012, with
transmission rates exceeding 1 Gbit/s achieved under laboratory conditions. In 2013, laboratory
tests achieved speed of up to 10 Gbit/s. By August 2013, data rates of approximately 1.6 Gbit/s
were demonstrated over a single color LED. A significant milestone was reached in September
2013 when it was stated that Li-Fi, or VLC systems in general, did not absolutely require line-of-

5|Page
sight conditions. In October 2013, it was reported Chinese manufacturers were working on Li-Fi
development kits.

In April 2014, the Russian company Stins Coman announced the BeamCaster Li-Fi wireless
local network, capable of data transfer speeds up to 1.25 gigabytes per second (GB/s). They
foresee boosting speeds up to 5 GB/s in the near future. In the same year, Sisoft, a Mexican
company, set a new record by transferring data at speeds of up to 10 GB/s across a light
spectrum emitted by LED lamps.

The advantages of operating detectors such as APDs in Geiger-mode as single photon avalanche
diode (SPAD) were demonstrated in May 2014, highlighting enhanced energy efficiency and
receiver sensitivity. This operational mode also facilitated quantum-limited sensitivity, enabling
receivers to detect weak signals from considerable distances.

In June 2018, Li-Fi successfully underwent testing at a BMW plant in Munich for industrial
applications under the auspices of the Fraunhofer Heinrich-Hertz-Institute.

In August 2018, Kyle Academy in Scotland, piloted the usage within its premises, enabling
students to receive data through rapid on–off transitions of room lighting.

In June 2019, Oledcomm, a French company, showcased its Li-Fi technology at the 2019 Paris
Air Show.

2.2 Types of Li-Fi Technology

i. Visible Light Communication (VLC): This is the most common type of Li-Fi, where
data is transmitted using the visible light spectrum (approximately 400–700 nm).
ii. Infrared Communication: Li-Fi technology that uses infrared light (wavelengths longer
than visible light, typically from 700 nm to 1 mm) to transmit data.

2.3 Uses of Li-Fi Technology


LiFi is a mobile wireless communications technology that uses light rather than radio frequencies
to transmit data. LiFi is fully networked, and mobile. The experience of using LiFi is similar to
WiFi but offers a range of advantages. Similar to other wireless communications technologies,

6|Page
LiFi can be used in a variety of applications such as internet access, phone-2-phone or phone-to-
TV communications or in emerging use cases such as extended or mixed reality.

2.4 Example of applications in health


In today’s rapidly advancing digital age, technology continues to revolutionize various
industries, and the healthcare sector is no exception. Among the latest innovations, LiFi (Light
Fidelity) technology emerges as a game-changer in healthcare, offering unprecedented
opportunities to transform the industry.

i. Enhancing Connectivity and Communication: In the healthcare setting, reliable and fast
communication is vital for efficient collaboration among medical professionals, rapid
access to critical patient information, and seamless coordination of care. LiFi technology
provides a unique solution by leveraging light waves to transmit data, offering
significantly higher speeds and greater bandwidth compared to traditional WiFi networks.
With LiFi, healthcare facilities can achieve data transmission rates of up to 100 Gbps,
enabling real-time transfer of large medical files, high-resolution imaging, and
telemedicine applications. This enhanced connectivity and communication facilitate
quicker diagnoses, streamlined workflows, and improved patient outcomes.
ii. Enabling Real-Time Patient Monitoring: Real-time patient monitoring is crucial for early
detection of health issues and prompt intervention. LiFi technology can play a
transformative role in this aspect of healthcare. By integrating LiFi-enabled sensors into
medical devices, patient monitoring systems can transmit vital signs, such as heart rate,
blood pressure, and oxygen saturation, in real time. This data can be securely transmitted
to healthcare professionals, who can remotely monitor patients and intervene as needed.
LiFi-enabled patient monitoring systems offer the advantage of reliable and high-speed
connectivity, ensuring that critical information is promptly delivered to healthcare
providers for immediate action.
iii. Enhanced Security and Privacy: Privacy and data security are paramount in healthcare,
where sensitive patient information is exchanged and stored. LiFi technology provides an
added layer of security compared to traditional WiFi networks. Unlike radio waves used
in WiFi, LiFi uses light waves that are confined to specific areas and cannot penetrate

7|Page
walls. This characteristic ensures that sensitive medical data remains within secure
environments, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or interception. By implementing
LiFi in healthcare facilities, organizations can strengthen data security measures, protect
patient privacy, and comply with stringent healthcare regulations.
iv. Optimizing Healthcare Workflow and Efficiency: Efficient workflow and streamlined
processes are essential for healthcare organizations to deliver timely and quality care.
LiFi technology offers several advantages that can optimize healthcare operations. For
instance, LiFi-enabled asset tracking systems can help locate medical equipment,
reducing the time spent searching for essential devices and enhancing overall workflow
efficiency. Moreover, LiFi-enabled communication devices can facilitate seamless
communication and collaboration among healthcare professionals, enabling quick
consultations, efficient handoffs, and timely decision-making.
v. Promoting Patient-Centered Care: Patient-centered care is a fundamental principle in
healthcare, focusing on delivering care that is respectful, responsive, and tailored to
individual patient needs. LiFi technology can contribute to this goal by improving the
patient experience and enabling personalized care delivery. With high-speed connectivity
provided by LiFi, patients can access educational resources, entertainment options, and
communication platforms, helping them stay connected with loved ones and maintain a
sense of normalcy during their healthcare journey. LiFi also facilitates remote
consultations and telemedicine services, allowing patients to receive medical advice and
follow-up care from the comfort of their homes, particularly beneficial for individuals
with limited mobility or those in remote areas.
vi. Driving Medical Research and Innovation: LiFi technology has the potential to
revolutionize medical research and innovation. With its high-speed and secure
connectivity, LiFi enables the rapid transfer of vast amounts of data, such as genomic
sequencing information, medical imaging data, and research findings. This facilitates
collaboration among researchers and institutions, leading to accelerated breakthroughs in
medical science. Researchers can easily access and analyze large datasets, collaborate in
real time, and leverage advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and machine
learning for data-driven discoveries. The speed and efficiency provided by LiFi

8|Page
technology contribute to the advancement of precision medicine, personalized treatments,
and the development of innovative healthcare solutions.
vii. Enabling Connected Healthcare Devices: The Internet of Things (IoT) has the potential to
transform healthcare by connecting various medical devices, wearables, and sensors to
improve patient monitoring, preventive care, and treatment outcomes. LiFi technology
plays a vital role in enabling this connected ecosystem within healthcare. With LiFi,
healthcare devices can seamlessly communicate and exchange data in real time, enabling
continuous monitoring of patient conditions, remote diagnostics, and timely
interventions. For example, wearable devices can transmit data to healthcare providers,
allowing for proactive health management and early detection of potential health issues.
LiFi provides the necessary connectivity infrastructure to support a comprehensive
network of connected healthcare devices, enhancing patient care and enabling proactive
interventions.
viii. Facilitating Virtual and Augmented Reality Applications: Virtual and augmented reality
(VR/AR) technologies have immense potential in healthcare, from medical training and
education to surgical planning and patient rehabilitation. LiFi technology facilitates the
seamless integration of VR/AR applications in the healthcare industry. By providing
high-speed and low-latency connectivity, LiFi ensures a smooth and immersive
experience for users, eliminating lags or disruptions that can hinder the effectiveness of
VR/AR in healthcare settings. Surgeons can utilize AR overlays during procedures,
enhancing precision and reducing risks. Medical students can engage in virtual
simulations to gain practical experience and refine their skills. LiFi-powered VR/AR
applications open up new possibilities for medical training, patient education, and
improved healthcare outcomes.

2.5 Challenges in Li-Fi Technology


Although Li-Fi can offer many advantages there are some disadvantages as well. For starters, Li-
Fi doesn’t work under direct sunlight because the sunlight blocks the path of the ray of light
given by the LED lamp. Furthermore, it can’t go through bricks or walls, so it can only be used
in a single room. If you want to move to another location, you have to make sure there is also an
LED bulb to make the connection to the receptor. Another disadvantage is that it doesn’t work
with the LED lights turned off (the lights need to be on in order to transmit data but they can be

9|Page
dimmed down), this being an issue and also a concern on the power bill and usage. It only works
on those devices (tablets, smartphones, etc) that have a Li-Fi receptor.

2.6 Related Works

In 2023, Victor Monzon Baeza and Rafael Arellano Garcia published "LiFi Technology
Overview: Taxonomy, and Future Directions." This paper provides a comprehensive survey of
the current state of Li-Fi technology, offering a taxonomy based on characteristics such as
modulation techniques, applications, scenarios, network topologies, and architecture
requirements. The authors highlight the opportunities, ongoing works, and challenges for future
research in the field.

In 2024, Cheng Cheng and colleagues introduced "100 Gbps Indoor Access and 4.8 Gbps
Outdoor Point-to-Point LiFi Transmission Systems using Laser-based Light Sources." This study
demonstrates the communication capabilities of Li-Fi systems based on high-brightness and
high-bandwidth integrated laser-based sources. The researchers achieved over 100 Gbps data
rates in indoor settings and 4.8 Gbps over a 500-meter outdoor link, showcasing the scalability of
Li-Fi systems employing laser-based light sources.

In 2023, Shuai Ma and his team published "Feasibility Conditions for Mobile LiFi." This
research investigates the time-varying channel characteristics of mobile Li-Fi based on measured
mobile phone rotation and movement data. The study defines Li-Fi channel coherence time to
evaluate the correlation of the channel timing sequence and proposes channel estimation and
tracking schemes to improve communication performance in mobile environments.

In 2021, Ahmad Adnan Qidan and colleagues presented "Towards Terabit LiFi Networking."
This work explores the potential of Li-Fi to meet the increasing user-traffic demands expected in
the near future. The authors discuss the challenges and propose solutions for integrating Li-Fi
with existing wireless networks to achieve high-quality service in terms of data rates and
coverage.

In 2016, Alao O.D. and his team published "Light Fidelity (Li-Fi): An Emerging Technology for
The Future." This paper discusses Li-Fi as an inexpensive and fast wireless communication
system, describing its operation through light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs that vary in intensity

10 | P a g e
faster than the human eye can perceive. The authors highlight Li-Fi as the optical version of Wi-
Fi, enabling high-speed wireless communication through illumination.

In 2017, Sneha Jadhav and colleagues introduced "Design and Implementation of Li-Fi System."
This study focuses on the design and implementation of a Li-Fi system using white LEDs for
short-range, high-speed wireless data transmission. The authors discuss the components and
working principles of the system, emphasizing its potential for indoor communication
applications.

CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Components of Li-Fi Technology

11 | P a g e
Figure 2.1: Components of Li-Fi Technology
Source: https://www.rfpage.com/li-fi-technology-working-principle-and-applications/
i. Data Access Point: The data access point connects the Li-Fi-enabled data transmission
system with the internet via a high-speed router and switch. Basically, it acts as a smart
hub that establishes connectivity between Li-Fi-enabled devices and the Internet. Higher-
level modulation schemes and encryption techniques are being used to ensure secure
communication.
ii. Li-Fi enabled Light Source: Since the light source used in Li-Fi technology – LED bulbs
are semiconductors, the same light can be used for transmitting data with fast switching
of LED light according to high-end modulation schemes. Sophisticated transceiver act as
a light source (for visible light) and data transmission node capable of securely sending
and receiving high-speed data. Visible light is the medium for high-speed uplink and
downlink transmission.
iii. Li-Fi-enabled smart device (transceiver): A Li-Fi-enabled smart device has a
photodetector (works as a receiver) and light emitter (works as a transmitter) for uplink
and downlink. Once the device moves from the vicinity of one light source to another
light source, the system re-establishes the connectivity like the traditional cell concept.

3.2 Working principle


LiFi is a type of optical wireless communication technology that uses light-emitting
diodes(LEDs) as a medium to carry data across a network. While traditional technologies like
WiFi or 5G depend on radio waves of the electromagnetic spectrum, LiFi technology relies on
using its optical waves. Visible light communication (VLC) technology, which is the backbone
of LiFi-based data transfer systems; works by modulating the light waves of an LED transmitter
at a very high speed to carry information.

Data transmission via LiFi is done through a light beam emitted by an LED bulb and directed to
a receiving device. This bulb is equipped with a LiFi router, which we call an access point,
connected to the Internet network via an RJ45 Ethernet cable with PoE capability. The
information is sent to the router from the network as an electrical signal and then encoded by the
imperceptible and ultra-fast switching (light intensity variation) of the light source.

12 | P a g e
The connected device (computer, smartphone, tablet) equipped with a LiFi key and located in the
coverage area of the light beam receives the data transmitted by the router through its LiFi
receiver. This device, which can be a dongle connected to the device or an integrated chip,
contains a photodiode responsible for capturing the light signal and a processor that converts it
into an electrical signal. The computer receives this electrical signal and translates it into a binary
system, then demodulates the digital data which then takes its final form, that of information
understandable by humans.

To get a clearer picture of how LiFi technology works, here is a concise summary of the LiFi
operating process:

i. The LiFi router receives the information via the Ethernet cable that connects it to the
local network
ii. It transmits it to the LED bulb, which fluctuates at high speed, with a frequency of tens of
thousands or even millions of signals per second.
iii. The light signal is perceived by the LiFi key which transforms it into an electrical signal
and transmits it to the computer
iv. The computer translates the signal into information that can be understood by humans.

3.3 Conceptual frame works

Figure: 3.1: Construction of Li-Fi System

13 | P a g e
Source:
http://ijariie.com/AdminUploadPdf/Review_Paper_on_Li_Fi__Light_Fidelity__ijariie2056.pdf)

3.5 Cost of implementation


3.5.1 Infrastructure and Hardware Costs

i. LED Light Fixtures: Li-Fi technology requires special LED bulbs that can modulate light
at high speeds. The cost of these LED bulbs may be higher than standard lighting, though
prices are expected to drop as the technology matures.
ii. Photodetectors: To receive the data transmitted by the LED lights, photodetectors are
required. These sensors can be a significant cost factor, depending on their quality and
performance.
iii. Transmitter and Receiver Units: A Li-Fi system consists of both a transmitter (typically
integrated into the LED light) and a receiver (like a photodetector or optical sensor). The
cost of these components can vary depending on the desired data transfer rates and
distance.
iv. Modulation and Encoding Equipment: Devices for modulating the light signal and
encoding it into data need to be included, adding to the overall cost. High-speed data
transmission will require more advanced modulation techniques, which may increase the
cost.

3.5.2. Installation and Setup

i. Integration with Existing Infrastructure: In some cases, the installation of Li-Fi systems
can be costly if it requires significant changes to existing lighting infrastructure.
However, in environments that already use LED lighting, the integration costs could be
relatively low, as only the modification of existing LED fixtures and the addition of
optical receivers may be necessary.
ii. Cabling and Power Supply: Unlike traditional wireless networks, which require routers,
access points, and antennas, Li-Fi uses light sources that still need to be connected to
power lines and potentially new wiring for data transmission.
iii. Network Design and Planning: For larger deployments, especially in commercial settings
(e.g., offices, airports, or public spaces), designing the network for optimal coverage and
capacity may involve additional costs for planning, configuration, and testing.

14 | P a g e
3.5.3. Operational Costs

i. Energy Consumption: While Li-Fi uses LED lights (which are energy-efficient), the
additional power demand from the data transmission aspect can add to operating costs,
especially if large-scale deployment is required.
ii. Maintenance: As with any technology, maintenance is needed over time. Li-Fi systems
will require regular maintenance of both the light fixtures and the optical receivers, which
may involve replacing parts or recalibrating the system.

3.5.4. Licensing and Software Costs

i. Software for Modulation and Control: In some cases, special software is needed to
control the modulation of the LED lights and manage the data transmission. Depending
on the implementation, licensing fees for proprietary software could be an added cost.
ii. Network Management: Large-scale Li-Fi networks, like those in smart cities or large
office buildings, may require specialized network management software for performance
monitoring, troubleshooting, and ensuring optimal data throughput.

15 | P a g e
CHAPTER FOUR:
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION
4.1 Summary

Li-Fi (Light Fidelity) is an innovative wireless communication technology that uses light to
transmit data instead of traditional radio frequency waves used by Wi-Fi. Li-Fi utilizes visible
light, ultraviolet (UV), or infrared light to send information by modulating the intensity of light
emitted from LED bulbs, which is then detected by a photodetector. The main benefits of Li-Fi
include extremely high-speed data transmission, enhanced security, and reduced interference
compared to traditional wireless technologies. Since light cannot pass through walls, it provides
more secure communication and limits the potential for data interception. Li-Fi also offers
broader bandwidth since the visible light spectrum is much wider than the radio frequency
spectrum used by Wi-Fi.

Li-Fi technology holds potential for various applications, including in smart homes, offices,
healthcare facilities, industrial settings, and public spaces. It can also support the Internet of
Things (IoT) by enabling seamless communication between connected devices. Furthermore, Li-
Fi is energy-efficient because it uses LED lighting, which already serves as a source of
illumination, making it a more sustainable solution. However, Li-Fi does have limitations. It
requires line-of-sight communication, meaning that data transmission is only possible when the
light is in the direct view of the receiver. Environmental factors like obstructions and ambient
lighting can also affect its performance.

4.2 Conclusion

16 | P a g e
In conclusion, Li-Fi technology presents a transformative approach to wireless communication,
offering the potential for ultra-fast data transmission, enhanced security, and energy efficiency.
By utilizing the visible light spectrum, Li-Fi can provide significantly higher speeds compared to
traditional Wi-Fi, while also minimizing interference and data theft risks due to its line-of-sight
nature.

Although challenges remain, such as the need for direct line-of-sight and the current cost of
implementation, Li-Fi holds great promise for a wide range of applications, including smart
homes, IoT devices, healthcare environments, and dense urban settings. As the technology
continues to evolve, with advancements in hardware and software, its adoption is expected to
grow, providing a sustainable, high-performance alternative to existing wireless communication
systems. Ultimately, Li-Fi is poised to complement or even transform existing wireless
technologies, offering innovative solutions to meet the increasing demand for faster, more
secure, and more reliable connectivity in an increasingly connected world.

17 | P a g e
Reference
Coetzee, Jacques (2013). "LiFi beats Wi-Fi with 1Gb wireless speeds over pulsing
LEDs". Gearburn. Archived from the original on 5 December 2015. Retrieved 29
November 2015.
Condliffe, Jamie (2011). "Will Li-Fi be the new Wi-Fi?". New Scientist. Archived from the
original on 31 May 2015.
Haas, Harald (2011). "Wireless data from every light bulb". TED
Global. Edinburgh, Scotland. Archived from the original on 8 June 2017.
Haas, Harald (2013). "High-speed wireless networking using visible light". SPIE Newsroom.
Harald Haas (2011). "Harald Haas: Wireless data from every light bulb". ted.com. Archived from
the original on 8 June 2017.
Kottke, Christoph (2012). "1.25 Gbit/s visible light WDM link based on DMT modulation of a
single RGB LED luminary". IEEE Xplore. pp. We.3.B.4.
Povey, Gordon (2011). "Li-Fi Consortium is Launched". D-Light Project. Archived from the
original on 18 August 2013. Retrieved 22 October 2013.
Sherman, Joshua (2013). "How LED Light Bulbs could replace Wi-Fi". Digital
Trends. Archived from the original on 27 November 2015. Retrieved 29 November 2015.
Stephanie (2015). "Why Li-Fi Won't Replace Your Wi-Fi Router Any Time Soon". Retrieved 14
June 2022.
Tsonev, Dobroslav; Videv, Stefan; Haas, Harald (2013). "Light fidelity (Li-Fi): towards all-
optical networking". Proc. SPIE. Broadband Access Communication Technologies
VIII. 9007 (2). Broadband Access Communication Technologies VIII: 900702.
Vincent, James (2013). "Li-Fi revolution: internet connections using light bulbs are 250
times". The Independent. London. Archived from the original on 1 December 2015.
Retrieved 29 November 2015.

18 | P a g e
Vucic, Jelena; Kottke, Christoph; Nerreter, Stefan; Langer, Klaus-Dieter; Walewski, Joachim W.
(2010). "513 Mbit/s Visible Light Communications Link Based on DMT-Modulation of a
White LED". Journal of Lightwave Technology. 28 (24): 3512.
Watts, Michael (2012). "Meet Li-Fi, the LED-based alternative to household Wi-Fi". Wired
Magazine. Archived from the original on 25 May 2016.

19 | P a g e

You might also like