In the current fast-paced era of digital communication, the latest Li-Fi (light fidelity) technology comes as a fresh source, offering wireless connectivity. Transmission of data is one of the most crucial activities of our day-to-day lives, and the slow internet connectivity of present wireless networks, with the use of multiple devices, demands speedier technology sources, promising better connectivity and efficiency.
Li-Fi, a wireless optical networking technology that uses light emitting diodes (LEDs) for transmission of data, promises better bandwidth, efficiency, connectivity, and security than Wi-Fi. There are tremendous opportunities to exploit this medium, owing to the low-costs associated with LEDs and lighting units. Some of its possible applications are stated below.
Applications of Li-Fi
Aircrafts
Aircrafts can be one of the early adopters of high-speed Li-Fi internet technology, as it can offer a great solution for uninterrupted communication, not only between pilots and airports, but also for passengers travelling in an aircraft. Since Wi-Fi is not used in the aircrafts, to avoid its interference with pilot’s navigational systems, Li-Fi can easily offer high-speed internet accessibility, with every single light source available in the aircraft.
Workforces
Offices and workstations are in constant demand for high-speed internet connectivity, in order to operate smoothly and uninterruptedly. However, this is not always possible with Wi-Fi and multiple users relying on a single connection. This concern can be easily addressed using Li-Fi technology. Its high-speed internet can enable small- to large-sized organizations to make video conference calls, and move from one room to another without any hindrance in connectivity. For instance, all the ceiling lights in an office can be a source of internet. A real-estate company, Icade, recently tested Li-Fi technology in its La Defense, Paris office, using Philips Lighting’s LiFi-enabled LEDs.
Healthcare
Unlike Wi-Fi, Li-Fi does not interfere with radio-frequency devices, therefore its applications in hospitals and medical centers will be safe. Li-Fi can be used for internet accessibility and medical equipment control, which can be useful in operation theatres, while performing robotic surgeries and other automated procedures. Additionally, it can be used in various other areas, including waiting rooms, corridors, as well as patient rooms, to monitor movement and vital signs in patients. Also, Li-Fi can be used in pharmacies, to receive electronically-approved prescriptions, to track the availability of prescribed drugs, and to maintain patient records.
Schools
Internet has been crucial in the evolution of education system in multiple ways. It has raised the level of education and changed the traditional ways of teaching. Adoption of Li-Fi in schools can offer network connectivity between students, teachers, parents, and all the other staff members. The Li-Fi technology enables seamless internet connectivity and security in the entire school premises, from classrooms, libraries, auditoriums, to dorms. There are schools that have already started using Li-Fi technology as a trail, in their classrooms.
Underwater
Connectivity and communication underwater is severely limited, as radio waves do not travel efficiently underwater. This results in slow and poor underwater communication. New deployment strategies by Li-Fi technology can offer game-changing opportunities within all areas of undersea activities. For instance, the US Navy has already started working on using Li-Fi technology underwater, and has funded a research program to delve into the development this technology. The US Navy plans to employ the application on Li-Fi network, to enhance submarine communication systems.
The uses of Li-Fi are infinite, as its easy accessibility can connect smartphones, laptops, tablets, and various other IoT devices with ease. The Li-Fi technology’s short-range network can yield exceptionally high data rates and higher security. Li-Fi can also co-exist smoothly with Wi-Fi, and can be run parallel, as both these technologies are generated using different methods that do not hinder with each other.
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