Scientists have developed a new form of wireless communication for computers that is 100 times faster than Wi-Fi.
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However, due to LiFi’s limitations, it would be likely to run in parallel with existing technology to increase a network’s speed and efficiency. The technology is being now tested in select offices and industrial environments in Tallinn, Estonia. However, there is no word yet on possible bugs and such that could hinder the development of the project.
Some of the most important features of Li-Fi include free-to-use, abundant bandwidth, 1000x better data density than WiFi, very high data rates and good signal strength. Information is beamed through the light in the air. Back in 1880, Alexander Graham Bell (the inventor of the telephone) transmitted audio using visible light.
How does Li-Fi work with the flickering of lights?
The new technology was invented in 2011 by Harald Haas from the University of Edinburgh in Scotland.
Another major problem is that Li-Fi does not work outdoors, meaning that public Li-Fi will not be able to replace public Wi-Fi networks any time soon.
The latest technology of data transmission comes underway.
For the first time ever, scientists have trialled the technology outside of a lab and found that they can transmit data at 1GB per second, which is 100 times faster than Wi-Fi.
The world of tomorrow may be one where light and internet access are provided from the same point. It transfers data over the visual spectrum rather than via radio waves, according to Digital Trends. The technology could also be used in high-speed point-to-point networking devices that deliver backbone network support.
During the demonstration, Professor Haas also explained that the receiver can ignore other light present.
Another benefit is of course, the faster data transmission.
Instead, researchers are working on retrofitting current devices to be Li-Fi compatible. This would make for an even cleaner internet, and a greener world. That’s nearly the equivalent of downloading a HD movie.
There is an interesting limitation of Li-Fi, which could be a blessing in disguise.
Speed is not the only advantage of Li-Fi.
There’s also a double-edged sword to the technology – light can not pass through walls.
In another project, the company has set up a Li-Fi network in an office space to provide Internet access for a private client.
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The phrase was first coined by German physicist Harald Haas during a TED talk where he outlined the idea of using lightbulbs as wireless routers. One is for deep sea explorations. However, using LEDs means that every lightbulb in every room can essentially act as a transmitter, eliminating the need for penetration. The Velmenni version of li-fi has recorded speeds of up to 1GBps.
