Patent · US Expired

High-sensitivity tracking in free-space optical communication systems

US6970651B1 · kind B1 · utility

15Cited by
18References
34Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateJul 31, 2001
Grant dateNov 29, 2005
Priority date
Expiry dateJul 12, 2023

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
  • CPC primaryH04B10/1121
  • WIPO fieldTelecommunications
  • WIPO sectorElectrical engineering

Abstract

Apparatus and methods for implementing a high-power or high-sensitivity tracking mode of operation in a free-space optical communication system are disclosed. Functions of the high-power or high-sensitivity tracking mode may be implemented in response to one or more engage signals generated and transmitted in response to a sensed inclement weather condition, such as fog or the like, which may interfere with communication of an optical signal between a pair of free-space optical terminals in the free-space optical communication system. Implementation of the high-power or high-sensitivity tracking mode facilitates maintenance of the alignment between the pair of free-space optical terminals throughout the duration of the inclement weather condition to allow data communication to resume fully after the inclement weather condition has diminished.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.