UP-VLC is an ambitious project which will explore the transformative technology of communications in an imaginative and foresighted way. The vision is built on the unique capabilities of gallium nitride (GaN) optoelectronics to combine optical communications with lighting functions, and especially on the capability to implement new forms of spatial multiplexing, where individual elements in high-density arrays of GaN based light emitting diodes (LEDs) provide independent communications channels, but can combine as displays. We envisage ultra-high data density - potentially Tb/s/mm2 - arrays of LEDs driven via CMOS control electronics in novel addressing and encoding schemes and in compact and versatile forms.
Project Funder
EPSRC
Funding Amount
>£4.6 Million
Project Dates
October 2012 - September 2016
Collaboration
- University of Strathclyde
- University of St. Andrews
- University of Oxford
- University of Cambridge
Researchers
Project Website
Project Description
UP-VLC is an ambitious project which will explore the transformative technology of communications in an imaginative and foresighted way. The vision is built on the unique capabilities of gallium nitride (GaN) optoelectronics to combine optical communications with lighting functions, and especially on the capability to implement new forms of spatial multiplexing, where individual elements in high-density arrays of GaN based light emitting diodes (LEDs) provide independent communications channels, but can combine as displays. We envisage ultra-high data density - potentially Tb/s/mm2 - arrays of LEDs driven via CMOS control electronics in novel addressing and encoding schemes and in compact and versatile forms.
The project is a partnership between 6 research groups at 5 institutions. It is led by Professor M.D. Dawson of the University of Strathclyde and mentored by Professor P. Blood of Cardiff University.
Publicity and Impact
Microscopic LEDs could speed up wireless communication, The Engineer, 25th January 2013
