Integration scenarios for Free Space Optics in next generation (4G) wireless networks

Free Space Optics (FSO) has gained importance as an access technology owing to its high bandwidth and flexibility of use. The next generation 4G networks encompass all the existing and new interfaces and protocols thus opening new dynamics in range of services. Hence the plausibility for integration of FSO in 4G networks is explored. These avenues cover short, medium and long haul communication links. A comparison has been made between RF and FSO for usage in the cellular network whereby intercommunication link between BSC-MSC has been selected. The results clearly indicate that the FSO is superior in performance to its RF counterpart up to 5km in clear weather conditions. This suggests a possible integration scenario for FSO links within the heterogeneous 4G networks.