Transfer mobile data at fiber optic speeds with visible light

Mobile Mentantalism reports that Matushita of Japan have demonstrated an entirely new way of transferring data: visible light. Yes, not the invisible Infra-Red type, but normal everyday visible light.

"The new Visible Light Communications (VLC) technology can act as a standard light. But stand underneath it with a suitably-equipped gadget, such as a PDA, mobile phone or MP3 player, and you can transfer data straight to your gadget at speeds approaching that of fiber."

Plans for this technology include using it:

-- at exhibitions where you can stand underneath a VLC lamp and download info from the display

-- in cameras and camera phones, with the optics from the camera lens being used to receive the data

-- in electronic advertising signs, letting you download data about the product being advertised

-- in cars, where your car's headlights can communicate with traffic lights

-- in your home gadgets as a new form of ultra-fast remote control

-- in the office, with a VLC-equipped desk-lamp being used as a modem for your laptop

-- pretty much anywhere you currently use Wi-Fi

Read more.

emily | 10:41 AM | Technology |
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