Retro-reflective communications over a kilometre range using a MEMS-based optical tag

Andrew M. Scott; Kevin D. Ridley; David C. Jones; Mark E. McNie; Gilbert W. Smith; Kevin M. Brunson; Andrew Lewin; Keith L. Lewis

doi:10.1117/12.835073

24 September 2009 Retro-reflective communications over a kilometre range using a MEMS-based optical tag

Andrew M. Scott, Kevin D. Ridley, David C. Jones, Mark E. McNie, Gilbert W. Smith, Kevin M. Brunson, Andrew Lewin, Keith L. Lewis

Author Affiliations +

Proceedings Volume 7480, Unmanned/Unattended Sensors and Sensor Networks VI; 74800L (2009) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.835073
Event: SPIE Security + Defence, 2009, Berlin, Germany

Abstract

We report on a laser communications experiment over a kilometre optical range where we have used a retro-reflective transponder incorporating an optical modulator based on silicon micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) device. This employs interference to provide modulation and relies on performing as a coherent array to modulate incident light in the near-IR band (1550nm) over a wide angular range (120 degrees). Modulation is achieved by tuning a large array of Fabry-Perot cavities via the application of an electrostatic force to adjust the gap between a moveable mirror and the underlying silicon substrate. The micro-mirrors have a strong mechanical resonance, and modulate light by adjusting the spacing between the micromirrors and the substrate. We use a 'release and catch' technique to exploit the mechanical resonance, and we time the motion of the micro-mirrors to be synchronised with the arrival of an interrogator pulse to ensure that the etalon spacing provides the required modulation, whatever the angle of incidence. We describe experiments over a one kilometre path where simple strings were sent at 200kbit per second. We also discuss approaches to adapting the link to a given angle of incidence.

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Andrew M. Scott, Kevin D. Ridley, David C. Jones, Mark E. McNie, Gilbert W. Smith, Kevin M. Brunson, Andrew Lewin, and Keith L. Lewis "Retro-reflective communications over a kilometre range using a MEMS-based optical tag", Proc. SPIE 7480, Unmanned/Unattended Sensors and Sensor Networks VI, 74800L (24 September 2009); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.835073

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