Performance analysis of TCP over visible light communication networks with ARQ‐SR protocol

Abstract

This paper theoretically studies the performance of transmission control protocol (TCP) over visible light communications (VLC) networks when the automatic-repeat request, selective repeat (ARQ-SR) protocol is employed in the link layer. We analytically derive TCP throughput considering the impact of ARQ-SR parameters and different VLC physical factors, including inter-symbol interference (ISI), signal reflection and light power distribution. Numerical results show that TCP throughput is strongly dependent on the location of VLC user due to impacts of ISI and signal reflection. It is also seen that the use of ARQ-SR could significantly improve both the maximum value and the distribution of TCP throughput in the VLC network. Especially, with a proper selection of the number of re-transmissions by the ARQ-SR protocol, the dependence of TCP throughput on user location caused by ISI, light signal reflection and distribution could be effectively remedied.

Physical deployment of enhanced visible light communication system using forward error correction codes

“…VLC technology is considered as a green data technology that delivers higher data rates. Moreover, license‐free, unregulated and far greater spectrum than that of RF, no side effects on human skin and eyes, security as light signals cannot penetrate via solid objects, power efficiency, high signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR), and low‐cost optoelectronic components are also pondered as prospective advantages of the VLC system . Considering the aforesaid advantages, the VLC technology is currently well matched to assist the heterogeneous network (Het‐Net) in 5G networks.…”

“…Moreover, license-free, unregulated and far greater spectrum than that of RF, no side effects on human skin and eyes, security as light signals cannot penetrate via solid objects, power efficiency, high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and low-cost optoelectronic components are also pondered as prospective advantages of the VLC system. [6][7][8][9] Considering the aforesaid advantages, the VLC technology is currently well matched to assist the heterogeneous network (Het-Net) in 5G networks. Despite several inherent advantages of VLC, there also exist different design challenges such as (a) nonnegative modulated signal, 10 (b) low modulation bandwidth of LED, 11,12 (c) interference resulting from other light sources and multipath fading, 13,14 and (d) short-range communication.…”