
Context
Recently, the Ministry of Defence granted Li-Fi Technology to address the Indian Navy’s communication challenges.
About
- It is a wireless communication technology that uses mild to transmit statistics.
- Unlike conventional radio frequency-primarily based Wi-Fi, which relies on radio waves, Li-Fi leverages Light-emitting Diodes (LEDs) to create a high-speed, strong, and energy-efficient conversation channel.
Working
- LEDs as Data Transmitters: Li-Fi makes use of LEDs (including those used for lighting) to transmit records. These LEDs can be modulated at high speeds to encode information.
- When an electrical signal is carried out to an LED, it emits light. By varying the depth of the light unexpectedly, records may be transmitted.
- Photodetectors as Receivers: Devices geared up with photodetectors (including smartphones, laptops, or IoT devices) receive the modulated mild indicators.
- The photodetectors convert the received light into electric alerts, which are then processed as data.
Advantages
- High Speed: Li-Fi can achieve record quotes of several gigabits per second (Gbps), surpassing traditional Wi-Fi.
- Security: Since Li-Fi operates within the seen mild spectrum, it does not penetrate walls, making it inherently strong in opposition to eavesdropping.
- No Interference: Li-Fi does not interfere with radio frequencies used by Wi-Fi or cellular networks.
- Energy Efficiency: LEDs are energy-efficient, contributing to usual energy savings.
Challenges and Considerations
- Line of Sight: Li-Fi calls for an immediate line of sight between the transmitter (LED) and receiver (photodetector).
- Indoor Use: Li-Fi is right for indoor environments, such as places of work, hospitals, and smart homes.
- Integration: Integrating Li-Fi with existing infrastructure and gadgets remains a challenge.
Applications
- Internet Connectivity and Indoor Communication: Li-Fi can offer high-speed internet access in workplaces, homes, and public spaces.
- Secure Environments: Military bases, hospitals, and records centres gain from Li-Fi’s security features.
- Underwater Communication: Li-Fi may be used for underwater communication, wherein RF signals are useless.
Source: The Indian Express
UPSC Mains Practice Question
Q. Discuss the recommendations of the 13th Finance Commission which have been a departure from the previous commissions for strengthening the local government finances. (2013)