Omnilux, today announced the availability of its wireless broadband platform, designed to supply ISPs with an optical alternative to DSL or cable.

Omnilux uses free-space optics to rooftop “nodes” that in turn delivers access to computers using an Ethernet connection or Wi-Fi. Using light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in place of lasers, Omnilux claims to drive down the cost of FSO-based transceivers and yet still provide 100 Mpbs, “full duplex” service over distances of up to 400 meters (about one-quarter of a mile).

This combination of technologies enables ISPs to reach customers without having to gain access to the existing DSL or cable networks or to undertake costly “last-mile” construction, such as digging up the streets. The bi-directional data speeds of up to 100 Mbps can also relay data from other nodes on a network.

Line of sight is literal when your dealing with light. The advantage over RF is the backbone speed. The low-cost optical system might be used to network buildings (or utility poles) within a block.

The FSO Alliance, consists of some 25 leading companies that provide service or manufacture Free Space Optical systems, equipment and components.

Mesh networking using WiFi can work around trees and other obstacles. RF mesh networks include MeshNetworks, PacketHop, Mobile Mesh, MOTERAN Networks , Nokia Mesh and Wave Wireless.

Posted by Sam Churchill on Wednesday, September 25th, 2002 at 1:54 am.