A Survey of Opportunities for Free Space Optics in Next Generation Cellular Networks

Cellular wireless networks have consistently relied upon Radio Frequency (RF) channels to provide connectivity between users and base stations. RF channels have also provided, in large part, connectivity within the Radio Access Network (RAN) and the Core Network (CN) for the purpose of connecting mobile users to the Public Switched Telephone Networks (PSTN) and Internet. However, other methods may be necessary in order to provide the faster data rates required by many new and emerging applications. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the potential role for Free Space Optical (FSO) communications within next generation cellular networks. The argument is made that the increasing number of base stations, as well as the advanced topologies supported by next generation cellular networks, pave the way for a growing reliance upon FSO communications, with a view to support the high bandwidth applications offered to mobile users.