Cognitive broadband optical-wireless network

Abstract

This work reports the implementation of the first cognitive broadband optical-wireless network published in literature, aimed to deal with the new demands for convergent future access networks. It simultaneously provides the functionalities of ultra-wideband radiofrequency spectrum sensing, dynamic resource allocation, and centralized processing capability, as well as the use of ultra-wideband antennas and radio over fiber technology. The performance of this innovative architecture has been evaluated in a geographically distributed optical-wireless network under real conditions. Experimental results demonstrate broadband and remote spectrum sensing from 680 MHz up to 8.0 GHz and an enhancement of more than 30 dB in the carrier to interference plus noise ratio (CINR) parameter, improving the cognitive user experience and enabling energy efficiency and flexibility in the use of the radiofrequency spectrum.